Major Events & Festivals in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Salvador, Brazil, Salvador, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

1. Carnaval de Salvador

Largest street carnival in Brazil, showcasing samba schools and colorful parades.
  • Authentic Samba Experience: Experience the roots of Rio's Carnaval in a more traditional setting.
  • Costume and Dance Lessons: Learn local samba moves and make your own carnival costume.
  • Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Brazilian culture through music, dance, and food.

2. Festa de São João

Huge celebration on June 24th, featuring fireworks, music, and traditional dances.
  • Unique Traditions: Participate in unique traditions like throwing garlic at the moon.
  • Local Cuisine: Try traditional dishes such as vatapá and moqueca during the festival.
  • Nighttime Festivities: Enjoy a night filled with lively music, fireworks, and revelry.

3. Boitumindí – Festival Indígena de Cultura Afro-Bahiana

Celebration of indigenous and African cultural heritage in Salvador.
  • Cultural Exchange: Learn about the rich cultural history of Salvador's indigenous and African communities.
  • Diverse Performances: Enjoy a variety of music, dance, and art performances from different cultures.
  • Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops focusing on traditional arts and crafts.

4. Festa Junina

June festival featuring games, food, and traditionally dressed characters like the 'juninha' and 'moça de coco'
  • Local Food and Games: Try traditional foods like corn on the cob, candies, and sweetened coffee.
  • Costume Encounters: Meet and interact with people dressed in traditional festival attire.
  • Community Spirit: Experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a Brazilian community celebration.

5. Festa da Umbanda

Spiritual festival honoring African deities and celebrating the syncretism of African, indigenous, and Christian traditions.
  • Religious Experience: Join in prayer and ritual ceremonies led by experienced 'umbandistas'.
  • Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into Brazil's complex spiritual heritage.
  • Community Bonding: Participate in drum circles, dancing, and fellowship with the local community.

6. Feira de São Joaquim

Large market selling traditional food, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Authentic Shopping Experience: Purchase unique, locally made crafts and souvenirs.
  • Tasty Food Options: Savor traditional Bahian dishes like acarajé, moqueca, and pirão.
  • Local Interaction: Engage with local vendors and learn about their products and traditions.

7. Festival de Inverno

Winter festival featuring music, art, and cultural events.
  • Cultural Exploration: Discover the artistic side of Salvador through various exhibitions and performances.
  • Community Events: Attend events organized by local communities showcasing their unique traditions.
  • Warm Weather Experience: Enjoy the cooler, mild winter weather in Salvador during this festival.

8. Festival da Cidade Feliz – Salvador Capitália das Américas

Celebration of happiness and peace in the city of Salvador.
  • Positive Vibes: Participate in activities promoting positivity, joy, and unity.
  • Local Art and Music: Enjoy performances by local artists and musicians.
  • Community Involvement: Contribute to the festival through volunteer opportunities or collaborative projects.

9. Feira do Divino Espírito Santo

Market fair dedicated to the Divino Espírito Santo (Holy Ghost) tradition.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the deep-rooted spirituality of Salvador's culture.
  • Unique Traditions: Participate in traditional activities such as 'blessing of the water' and processions.
  • Local Food and Crafts: Sample local foods and purchase handmade crafts during the fair.

10. Feira do Feliz Natal

Christmas market featuring traditional food, music, and crafts.
  • Authentic Christmas Experience: Immerse yourself in a traditional Brazilian Christmas celebration.
  • Tasty Treats: Try traditional Christmas sweets and savory dishes during the fair.
  • Local Craftsmanship: Purchase unique handmade crafts created by local artisans.

11. Festival de Música Popular Brasileira (MPB)

Music festival showcasing Brazilian popular music.
  • Live Music Performances: Enjoy live performances by renowned Brazilian musicians.
  • Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into the evolution and diversity of Brazilian music.
  • Community Bonding: Connect with fellow music lovers from around the world.

12. Festival da Canção Nordestina (FCN)

Music festival featuring Northeastern Brazilian music.
  • Local Music Experience: Discover the unique sounds and rhythms of Northeastern Brazil.
  • Live Performances: Enjoy live performances by local artists showcasing their regional music.
  • Cultural Exchange: Interact with fellow festival attendees and share your own musical tastes.

13. Festival Internacional de Cinema de Salvador (FICSS)

International film festival showcasing both Brazilian and international films.
  • Cultural Exchange: Discover new perspectives through a diverse selection of films.
  • Meet Filmmakers: Network with filmmakers and industry professionals during Q&A sessions and workshops.
  • Cinematic Exploration: Experience the latest in filmmaking technology and techniques.

14. Festival Internacional de Teatro de Bahia (FITBAHIA)

International theater festival featuring both local and international productions.
  • Cultural Immersion: Explore the rich world of live theater from various cultures.
  • Artistic Collaboration: Collaborate with artists and theatre practitioners during workshops and masterclasses.
  • Innovative Performances: Enjoy innovative and thought-provoking performances by talented theater companies.

15. Festival Internacional de Dança de Bahia (FIDBAHIA)

International dance festival showcasing various styles of dance from around the world.
  • Cultural Exchange: Experience diverse dance cultures and share your own with fellow attendees.
  • Artistic Collaboration: Collaborate with dancers and choreographers during workshops and masterclasses.
  • Innovative Performances: Enjoy innovative and thought-provoking dance performances by talented companies.