When you visit São Miguel, you quickly learn that food is at the heart of the culture. One of the most cherished culinary traditions is the festival of sopas, or soups, which are often held as fundraisers for local groups. On August 22nd, we had the pleasure of attending the Festival of Sopas São Lázaro in the charming town of Água de Pau.

The tradition of sopas in the Azores is a deeply rooted practice that dates back centuries, with its origins tied to the devotion of the Holy Spirit (Espírito Santo). Legend says that the tradition was started by Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal in the 14th century. During a time of famine, she prayed for her starving people, vowing to offer a great banquet of bread and meat to the poor if their suffering was relieved. A miracle occurred, and the tradition of providing food for the community was born, becoming a powerful symbol of charity and solidarity.

This year’s event was truly unforgettable. We arrived just after 8 p.m., but it was clear the festival had been in full swing for a while. A long line of eager attendees stretched out, all waiting to sample the night’s offerings. For just €6 per person, we gained access to a wide array of over 25 different soups, each one prepared by a different community group from the surrounding area.

The variety was incredible, but we quickly realized this was an event where timing is everything. By 9 p.m., most of the soups were gone, a testament to their popularity and the enthusiasm of the crowd. This is definitely a festival you don’t want to be late for!

This event felt a bit different from other sopas festivals we’ve attended. It was a massive open-air gathering, with no tables—just a lively crowd enjoying their bowls of soup while standing and mingling. The attendance was much larger than usual, creating a vibrant atmosphere that was enhanced by the live entertainment that followed the food. It was a wonderful way to experience a true slice of local life and taste the unique flavors of São Miguel.