A brief summer rain brought unexpected charm to São João 2025, as Porto’s festive spirit shone through. Extended fireworks along the Douro River and lively street celebrations made this year’s celebrations unique..

The São João Festival is rooted in centuries-old traditions, with origins in ancient pagan rituals celebrating the summer solstice, later adapted to honor Saint John the Baptist. Over time, the festival has embraced new symbols—colorful hammers, paper lanterns, and intricate cascades—while always preserving its spirit of renewal, joy, and togetherness.

On the night of June 23, 2025, Porto once again transformed into one of Europe’s most vibrant stages for the annual São João Festival. This year, the city was graced with warm, pleasant weather—ideal for lively gatherings in the streets. Only a brief spell of rain passed through, adding a touch of excitement as a few paper lanterns were extinguished prematurely in the sky, but never dampening the spirits of the revelers.

By the time the much-anticipated fireworks show began, the skies had cleared and the air was balmy, inviting thousands to line the banks of the Douro River. For the first time, the fireworks display stretched from the Arrábida Bridge all the way to the iconic Luís I Bridge, creating a dazzling spectacle visible from every corner of the riverside. This new, extended format made the experience even more inclusive, with stunning views and a festive atmosphere felt throughout the city.

The traditional sardine grills, accompanied by potatoes and other local delicacies, took place in an atmosphere of pure joy. The scent of grilled sardines mingled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the playful tapping of plastic hammers—martelinhos—on friends’ and strangers’ heads, a hallmark of São João. Neighbors, friends, and visitors shared tables and stories late into the night, embodying the true spirit of Porto.

This year, the brief rain shower only served to highlight the resilience and good humor of Porto’s people. Between fleeting showers and the warmth of summer, the city once again proved why São João remains one of Portugal’s most authentic and unforgettable celebrations. As the last fireworks faded and the music drifted into the early hours, it was clear: rain or shine, São João in Porto is always a night to remember.