The day after the Marchas de São Pedro brings a unique tradition to the village of Ribeira Seca: the Desfile das Cavalhadas. This event, a procession of horsemen, dates back to the volcanic eruption of Pico do Sapateiro in 1563. The Cavalhadas are a vibrant display of devotion, as the horsemen fulfill promises made to Saint Peter for saving the local church from the encroaching lava flow.

This short, 45-minute spectacle takes place around noon. The horsemen, in their traditional attire, circle the church of São Pedro, a sight both thrilling and a bit chaotic. It’s a truly authentic experience, with a bustling crowd and no barriers between the people and the horses. You’ll be immersed in the action, feeling the ground tremble as the horses pass by.

To learn more about this historical tradition, you can visit the Casa das Cavalhadas, a small museum located directly across the street from the church. The museum showcases the intricate costumes, elaborate hats, and ornate saddles used in the parade, providing a deeper look into the rich history of the Cavalhadas. While the display text is in Portuguese, the visual elements alone are worth seeing.