Staying at Golden Mermaid Villa puts you right in the heart of some of São Miguel’s most vibrant cultural events. One of my favorites is the Marchas de São Pedro in Ribeira Seca. It’s one of the largest parades on the island, a spectacular display of community and tradition.

This year’s event was truly unforgettable. Over 1,500 performers from 12 of the 14 parishes of Ribeira Grande paraded through the streets. Each parish creates a unique theme every year, transforming the streets with elaborate costumes and spirited dances.

The energy from the crowd was incredible. One group dressed as Dorothy and the characters from the Wizard of Oz, while my own town of Ribeirinha celebrated with a beautiful lighthouse theme, adorned with whale tails in red and blue. The Santa Casa parish also impressed with their creative “Sea Creatures and Poseidon” costumes.

Each dance group, with anywhere from 50 to 100 dancers, included children and adults alike, all moving to the lively music of their town’s marching band. The parade started at 8 p.m. and continued until midnight—a testament to the incredible participation in a county with a population of only 32,000. It’s an amazing experience that truly showcases the heart and soul of São Miguel.