June feasts in Brazil

[Sister Alvear]

FESTAS JUNINAS / SÃO JOÃO (SAINT JOHN´S DAY)

This is the time for traditional celebrations in the Catholic calendar. The days observed are: June 13, Santo Antônio; June 24, São João; and June 29, São Pedro and São Paulo.

The origin of these festivities traces back to the Pre-Christian times. According to Sir James George Fraser, the month of June, time of summer solstice in Europe, the Middle East and North of Africa, inspires innumerous rites that evoke fertility to promote the growth of food crops as well as a good harvest. These rites represent very important religious manifestations to different peoples.

On June 23, the day before Saint John was born, the celebrations get started. The importance of Saint John is made clear when we consider the fact that, of all the saints observed in the month of June, he is the one that gives name to the month.

JUNE DANCES
The most popular dance during the festivities of the month of June is the Square Dance, in which there is a fake wedding that takes place before the actual performance. All in the name of fun.

SPECIAL JUNE DISHES
Corn, peanuts, sweet potato and manioc are the main ingredients of the dishes served over the month of June. Despite the changes in the way these foods are produced, they are still as popular – and tasty – as ever.
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