Ever wondered how Goans celebrate the arrival of the monsoon? Sao Joao, a vibrant festival in North Goa, marks this joyous occasion. Sao Joao, meaning 'Saint John,' is a festival celebrating the feast of St. John the Baptist. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement, joy, and hope as spring turns to summer. This festival, celebrated by Catholics, honours St. John. It's unique because people, especially young men, dive into wells seeking hidden treasures. It's a tradition that brings the community together during the rainy season's start.
Sao Joao, the feast of St John the Baptist happens in June, inviting everyone, regardless of age, to join in. People jump into wells, ponds, and lakes, making it a lively and inclusive event. In Siolim, a village in Bardez, thrilling boat races are a major highlight. While North Goa buzzes with enthusiasm, the festival in South Goa, particularly in Anjuna and Candolim, is more subdued yet equally heartfelt.
Sao Joao Feast of St John The Baptist - Date, Venue, & Tickets
The Sao Joao Feast of St John The Baptist festival is celebrated every year on 24 June in Siolim Village in North Goa. The grand celebrations are held at Fernandes and St Anthony’s Church. The event is open to everyone, and people of all ages gather to celebrate it with full gusto and enthusiasm. The excitement of this event can also be noticed in nearby areas like Calangute, Anjuna, Assagao, and Candolim.
History Of Sao Joao Feast Of St John The Baptist
Sao Joao Festival in Goa is a tribute to the great St. John the Baptist. St. John, concerning the Holy Scriptures, danced with excitement in his mother’s womb when the news came out about the birth of Jesus Christ. John the Baptist further immersed Lord Jesus in the Jordan River to baptise him. Hence, the “well” is known to be a symbol of his mother’s womb, and “diving” into it symbolises joy on the occasion of the auspicious birth of the baby. This feast is celebrated a few months before Christmas, on December 25 and is fondly remembered as Christ’s birthday.
Major Attractions Of Sao Joao Feast In Goa
São João festival in Goa is peppered with many attractions and interesting activities that keep youngsters and elders suitably occupied. The excitement of the onlookers is also at an all-time high when the youngsters jump into nearby water bodies to look for treasures the villagers throw. Besides enjoying the event, here are the other major attractions worth visiting and enjoying.
1. Resorts and Spas
Just a couple of minutes away from Candolim Beach lies Novotel Goa Resort and Spa which is one of the finest luxury hotels in all of Goa. Opt for a relaxing massage at the Spa. Dance to great music at the poolside and feast on the popular seafood at local restaurants.
2. Fruits and Drinks
A spirit manufactured only in Goa, known as Feni, is famous during this feast. Newly married couples and those with newborns come together with treasures of seasonal fruits like mangoes, pineapples, jackfruit, and tons of Feni bottles. You may also find a unique Goan dish, Patoleo, in every bridal bowl. This sweet is prepared using rice flour and fresh leaves and can be large, like banana leaves. It is mixed with coconut and even jaggery at the centre and steam-cooked. During the daytime, young people wear pretty crowns carved out of fruit and beautiful leaves locally known as ‘Kopels’.
3. Colourful Parades
People visiting this festival take part in colourful parades across the streets of Siolim village and nearby areas. The view of this parade passing through the streets is nothing less than spectacular. While taking part in the parade, the participants sing religious hymns and Mando. The highlight of the parade is Sangodd, and people who participate in the event are dressed differently, making themselves easily identifiable from the crowd.
4. Competitions
During this time, a variety of competitions are held, giving youngsters a chance to show their adventurous streak. These competitions are organised to keep the spirits of the participants high.
How To Reach Goa For Sao Joao Feast of St John The Baptist
The Sao Joao Festival is celebrated in the fabulous city of Panaji. The beautiful city is easy to reach from every part of the country through any form of transportation, such as roads, rails, and air. Since Goa is one of the major tourist attractions in the country, it is easily accessible from different parts of the country and international cities. Here are the details of the transportation method by which you can easily reach your destination.
- Nearest City. Panaji
- Nearest Airport. Dabolim Airport
- Nearest Railbase. Siolim Railway Station
- Distance From Panaji. 23.9 Km
By Air
Flights are much more comfortable than other means of transport and tend to save a lot of time and energy. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, the only international airport in Goa.
By Train
Train journeys are much safer than other means of transportation. They are also faster and economically viable because they offer a wide range of options according to your budget and convenience. The nearest railbase to reach Siolim is Siolim Railway Station, but passengers can also arrive at Karmali Railway Station.
By Road
It is always good to travel by road to get the most recent updates on a destination. Road trips help advance your knowledge and information about the destination you are travelling to. You can also discover the untold stories of the place by befriending a local. If you wish to opt for a road trip to Panaji from nearby cities, then you can check out the following routes.
- Distance From Belgaum. 104.4 km via NH 748
- Distance From Pune. 439 km via AH 47
- Distance From Mumbai. 582 km via AH 47
- Distance From Mangalore. 344.9 km via NH 66
- Distance From Mysore. 590 km via NH 48
- Distance From Delhi. 1863 Km via AH 47
- Distance From Kolkata. 2274 km via NH 53
- Distance From Bengaluru. 580 Km via NH 48
Conclusion
Sao Joao embodies the spirit of Goan culture – a blend of fun, faith, and community. It's a time for joyous celebrations, daring dives, and friendly competitions, reflecting the local ethos of unity and happiness. Whether plunging into wells or cheering on boat races, Sao Joao offers a unique glimpse into Goa's rich traditions and vibrant community life. Sending you warm wishes for a happy Feast of Sao Joao!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sao Joao Feast Of St John The Baptist
Q1. What is the significance of the Sao Joao Feast Of St John The Baptist?
A1. Sao Joao Feast Of St John The Baptist is celebrated every year on 24th June amidst a lot of fun, excitement, and gaiety. On this day, the birthday of St John The Baptist by the ardent devotees. Another highlight of this festival is that it is celebrated three months after the feast of the Annunciation on 25th March.
Q2. What are the highlights of the Sao Joao Feast Of St John The Baptist?
A2. Sao Joao Feast in Goa is peppered with attractions and interesting activities that keep youngsters and elders suitably occupied. The excitement of the onlookers is also at an all-time high when the youngsters jump into nearby water bodies to look for treasures the villagers throw.
Q3: When is Sao Joao 2025?
A3: The Sao Joao Feast is mainly celebrated in North Goa, particularly in Siolim, Anjuna, and Candolim on 24th June every year. Here, the festival is marked with greater enthusiasm and more vibrant festivities than other parts of Goa.
Q4: Are any specific traditions followed during the Sao Joao Feast?
A4: Yes, one key tradition is the "well jumping" where young men leap into wells, ponds, or lakes, symbolising joy and respect for St. John the Baptist. Also, boat races and the wearing of colourful crowns made from flowers and leaves, known as 'Kopel', are significant traditions of this feast.
Q5: What is the best way for tourists to experience the Sao Joao Feast?
A5: Tourists can best experience the Sao Joao Feast by visiting North Goa during the celebration. Participating in or watching the well jumps, enjoying the boat races in Siolim, and experiencing the local music, dance, and food offer a complete cultural immersion into this unique festival.
