São João do Porto is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals of the year in the city of Porto. Celebrated on the night of June 23rd to 24th (Monday to Tuesday), it’s ideal for enjoying a long weekend in the city.

For days, the streets are filled with color, light and joy. There’s traditional food, music, entertainment and lots of festivities, where the energy is contagious. Known as “the longest night of the year”, it’s a tradition to take to the streets with little plastic hammers, to offer manjericos with popular quatrains, to dine on grilled sardines with friends and family and to dance until dawn to popular music.

Don’t miss the fireworks display at midnight, launched over the River Douro and visible from the banks of the Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia, accompanied by the launch of the traditional São João balloons, which light up the city sky.

Throughout the night, there are also concerts and live entertainment scattered throughout the city.

Click here to consult the official Porto City Council program