Winter traditions in Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada is one of the most spectacular and vibrant places you have ever visited, enjoying and embracing its colorful and spectacular traditions and events!
Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel, is the regional capital of the Azores archipelago, a string of nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean about 1,300 kilometers west of Portugal’s mainland, which lies on the south coast of São Miguel, the largest island, and it’s a rewarding introduction to this beautiful and remote Portuguese territory – one of the world’s great adventure tourism destinations.
Dancing and brass band concerts are frequent throughout the various parishes of the island, especially during the festivities in honour of each locality’s patron saint. New Year’s Eve attains a new dimension at the Portas do Mar in Ponta Delgada, with its marina and cruise-ship terminal providing a new stage for music shows and exhibitions, with restaurants and bars animating the evening in the city.
The New Year’s Eve is celebrated throughout the islands of the Archipelago with musical concerts, commemorative dinners, gala and people gather in the centers of parishes and cities to watch the fireworks and welcome a New Year.
Every year, 6th of January marks the End of the Winter Celebrations in Portugal.
January 6th may seem like a random date but has a very specific history behind it. This date is called “Dia de Reis” or “Day of Kings” and is, according to Christian tradition, the day when the new-born Jesus was visited by the Three Wise Men. This date marks the end of the festivities. Christmas trees are taken down, nativity scenes are put away and Christmas decorations disappear.
It’s also very common to eat some bolo-rei with family on this day. Typically, this cake is baked with a fava bean inside (previously a small trinket); whoever finds it in their slice has to bring the next bolo-rei on January 6th.
Come and visit this spectacular place during the most wonderful and joyful times of the year, always counting on Ponta Delgada Taxi for unforgettable moments with family and friends!