When you visit the nearby town of Ribeira Seca, you’ll see a beautiful decoration called “Alampadas de São Pedro.” These unique arrangements, made from local flowers and fruit, are a bit like holiday wreaths and are an essential part of the big Festival of Saint Peter.

Many locals show their support for the festival by hanging these fruit decorations outside their homes. This tradition dates back to the first fruits harvested after the volcanic eruption of 1563, which caused a period of sterility. The first fruits were offered as a sign of gratitude, and the tradition has continued ever since.

I had the chance to visit the church where these beautiful Alampadas are made and purchased one to hang outside my villa. It cost €30 and weighed about four pounds—a small price for a piece of local history and a sign of support for the community.

Last year, I missed the Dance Marches and the Horse Parade, but I did get to see the Ribeirinha Marchas Populares and the Horse Calvary as they ride into our town. This year, I can’t wait to see the full parade!

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Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.