Sao Joao Feast of St John the Baptist 2024 - Monday, Jun 24

The Goan flavour intensifies with numerous Christian festivals which adds vibrant colors all round. Sao Joao or The feast of St John the Baptist is observed on June 24th every year with fun and frolic. The celebration of Sao Joao has been continued for around 175 years. The São João Feast, also known as the Feast of St. John the Baptist, is a vibrant festival celebrated in the state of Goa, India. It takes place on June 24th each year and is particularly popular in North Goa, especially in the villages of Siolim, Anjuna, Candolim, and Calangute.

Feast of St John the Bapist has an interesting legend associated with it. According to story inscribed in the Holy Bible, the feast saw its origin when Mother Mary (bearing Jesus) visited Elizabeth (the mother of St John the Baptist) whilst he was in the womb of his mother.  This occasion let him bounded with joy. St John the Baptist later christened Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. The celebration of Sao Jao is most fervor in north Goa.

Traditions of Sao Joao

Some traditions are associated with the feast of St John the Baptist which are followed for years. A procession of youngsters is held, this procession go door to door and collect gifts, liquor and fruits from there. They then offer prayers at any water body of the town and throw the collectibles there. In addition the young marriageable girls and young brides hoping to be blessed with good children also throw seasonal fruit, flowers and vegetables in the well to get their wishes fulfilled.

These are collected by the youths who jump in those wells and ponds. The sound of ‘Sao Joao, Sao Joao, Viva Sao Joao’ reverberates in the environment.

The well represents Elizabeth’s womb. The young folks jump into the well or pond to feel the ecstasy that John have sensed in presence of Jesus Christ while he was in his mother s womb. The spotlight is on newly-married couples. Water is drizzled on newly-married daughters-in-laws and then the bride carries goodies like mangoes, jackfruits, etc for distributing and the groom distribute the locally popular cashewnut hard drink, ‘feni’, beer, etc. Mother-in-law prepare a complete meal for son-in-law including an array of Goan delicacies, specially sanas with sorpotel, a sweet dish of rice, stuffed with grated coconut, raisins, jaggery called ‘patodio’ and other traditional food embraced with lot of vegetables, salt fish, salt-water mango and the hard circular bread ‘kankonn’ dipped in a brewed in moong dal.

The captivating spirit of hued Sao Joao is mind-blowing. Siolim Church sees the grand traditional boat parade in the stream which gathers flocks of people to witness the ambience. People dressed in uniform attire parade on a decorated float made by tying two boats or banana tree trunks together known as Sangodd. They are put into nearby streams to float. The group sings Mandos and religious hymns on Sangodd.

The people wear a lovely tiara of seasonal flowers known as ‘Copel’. Numerous adventurous games and competitions are organized in the feast. As they reach Church the candles are lighted and firecrackers.

Spirit of Sao Joao

The festival is celebrated with great fervor and gusto. Like the other Goan feast Sao Joao blossoms with the enchanting spirit of gaiety, color and tradition. Goan Government is continuously on foot to promote this festival by organizing various events and competitions like pot breaking contests, the frog race. All these add to the festive spirit. The youngsters in Goa celebrate this occasion with revelry and perform daredevil feats dedicated to God for peace and prosperity of every one in the year ahead.

Key Highlights of São João Feast:

1. Cultural and Religious Significance:

   • The feast is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, who is believed to have leaped for joy in his mother Elizabeth's womb when she was visited by Mary, the mother of Jesus. This event is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Goa.

2. Traditional Customs:

   • The festival is famous for its unique custom of jumping into wells, ponds, and streams. This symbolizes the joy of St. John the Baptist and his association with water, representing baptism.
   • People wear colorful outfits and floral crowns called "kopels" and sing traditional Goan songs known as "Mando."

3. Boat Processions:

   • In some villages, there are vibrant boat processions where decorated boats sail on local rivers, adding to the festive atmosphere.

4. Food and Drinks:

   • Traditional Goan delicacies are prepared and enjoyed during the feast, including special dishes like "sannas" (steamed rice cakes) and "sol kadi" (a refreshing coconut and kokum drink).
   • Feni, a popular local alcoholic beverage made from cashew or coconut, is also widely consumed.

5. Community Spirit:

   • The feast is marked by a strong sense of community and togetherness. Families and friends gather to celebrate, sing, dance, and share meals.
   • Visitors are welcomed with open arms, and the local hospitality is a highlight of the festival.

Celebrations and Activities:

• Music and Dance: Traditional Goan music and dance performances are a major attraction. The lively beats of the drums and the rhythm of the dances add to the festive spirit.
• Decorations: Homes and public places are adorned with flowers, lights, and decorations, creating a vibrant and joyous atmosphere.
• Competitions and Games: Various competitions, including boat races and games, are organized, bringing excitement and entertainment to the festival.

Religious Significance:

1. Celebration of St. John the Baptist:

   • The feast commemorates the birth of St. John the Baptist, a key figure in Christianity who is revered as the precursor to Jesus Christ. According to Christian tradition, St. John was born six months before Jesus and is known for baptizing Jesus in the River Jordan.

2. Symbolism of Water:

   • Water plays a central role in the feast, symbolizing baptism, purification, and renewal. The tradition of jumping into wells, ponds, and streams reflects the baptismal act and the cleansing of sins.

Cultural Significance:

1. Preservation of Traditions:

   • The festival is a vibrant display of Goan culture, showcasing traditional music, dance, and attire. The lively Mando songs and the wearing of floral crowns (kopels) are integral parts of the celebrations, preserving and celebrating local customs.

2. Community and Togetherness:

   • The feast fosters a strong sense of community and unity. It brings people together to celebrate, share food, and engage in communal activities. This spirit of togetherness is a key aspect of the festival.

Social Significance:

1. Festive Atmosphere:

   • The São João Feast contributes to the social fabric of Goa by providing a platform for communal joy and festivity. The colorful decorations, vibrant music, and lively processions create a festive atmosphere that strengthens social bonds.

2. Cultural Exchange:

   • For visitors and tourists, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Goan culture firsthand. It promotes cultural exchange and helps in preserving and promoting the region’s rich heritage.

To read in Hindi follow the link here - साओ जोआओ उत्सव