Viva Sâo Joâo! Experience Goa's Monsoon Festival Like Never Before
The vibrant festival of São João is one of Goa’s most loved and lively celebrations — a blend of deep-rooted faith, joyous tradition, and monsoon magic. Held every year on June 24th, it marks the feast day of Saint John the Baptist, known in the Christian tradition as the son of Saint Elizabeth and a relative of Mother Mary. In Goa, São João goes far beyond a religious feast — it becomes a community celebration filled with music, flowers, and water-soaked traditions. ⸻ Why Is São João Celebrated? The festival celebrates the birth of Saint John the Baptist, who, according to Christian scripture, leapt with joy in his mother’s womb upon hearing of the coming of Jesus. In Goa, this joy is symbolised by the most iconic part of the festival — jumping into wells! ⸻ The Monsoon Connection Coinciding beautifully with the early monsoon showers, São João feels like Goa’s way of welcoming the rains. The lush greenery, cool weather, and overflowing village wells set the perfect sc...