On the second Sunday of August, I went Ponta Delgada to pick up my bike and grab some lunch, I stumbled upon an unexpected and wonderful surprise: the city was in the midst of its annual Grand Festas do Divino Espírito Santo (Great Festivals of the Divine Holy Spirit).

The Festas do Espírito Santo are a deeply rooted tradition throughout the Azores, celebrating the Holy Spirit with a spirit of community, charity, and sharing. This centuries-old tradition is believed to have originated with Queen Isabel of Portugal in the 14th century, who was known for her compassion for the poor. The festivals are a powerful symbol of social solidarity, and they have become a defining part of Azorean identity.

Although I arrived before the main festivities began, I was captivated by the preparations. The city was adorned with colorful decorations and intricate, festive carts that lined the streets. These parades are a central part of the celebration, often featuring beautifully decorated oxcarts, and they create a buzzing atmosphere of excitement and anticipation for the main events, which include processions, musical performances, and communal feasts.

The highlight of these feasts is the “Sopas do Espírito Santo,” a hearty soup with meat and vegetables, which is distributed freely to everyone, embodying the festival’s message of generosity and sharing. A key symbol of the celebration is the “império,” a small, colorful chapel where the crown and scepter of the Holy Spirit are displayed, representing the authority and power of the Holy Spirit.

While I didn’t get to witness the full splendor of the festival this time, seeing the city so beautifully decorated was a treat in itself. It’s a great reminder to check local calendars when visiting, as you never know what wonderful cultural events you might discover. I’ll be sure to plan my visit for next year to experience both the morning preparations and the evening festivities on alternating nights!