If you’re in Brazil during the month of June, you’re in for one of the country’s most heartwarming cultural experiences: Festa Junina, also known as São João. Though rooted in the northeastern states like Pernambuco, Paraíba, and Bahia, these traditional mid-year festivities are celebrated all over the country — and they’re anything but modest.

Originally a Catholic celebration honoring St. John, São João has evolved into a massive nationwide party that blends country-style aesthetics with joyful music, dance, and food. Expect to see towns and city squares decorated with colorful flags and lanterns, people dressed in rural “caipira” outfits, and traditional “quadrilha” dance performances that mimic country weddings.

Live forró and baião bands will keep the crowd dancing, while street vendors offer delicious seasonal treats like pamonha (sweet corn paste), canjica (sweet corn pudding), pé-de-moleque (peanut brittle), and hot mulled wine.

Whether you’re in a big city like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, or venturing to the roots of the celebration in Caruaru or Campina Grande, you’ll witness the authenticity of Brazilian rural traditions infused with modern energy. These cities host some of the largest open-air festivals in the world, attracting millions every year.