If you find yourself in Goa during the monsoon season, there’s an exhilarating festival that will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories: the Saojoao festival.
As in every monsoon, Catholics in Goa will celebrate Sao Joao, the feast of St John the Baptist.
What is Sao Joao and where is it celebrated in Goa?
In Goa, Catholics celebrate all the feasts of the Roman Catholic Church, which include the feast of St John the Baptist on June 24.
John the Baptist is the person who he had baptised Jesus Christ on the river Jordan.
Traditionally, there are spirited Sao Joao festivities in the villages of Cortalim in South Goa and Harmal, Baga, Siolim and Terekhol in North Goa.
However, over the years, pool parties and private Sao Joao parties in Goa have been a “complete package of merriment and joy” for tourists.
The celebrations will include revellers sporting crowns made of fruits, flowers and leaves, and the major draw of the feast is the water bodies – wells, ponds, fountains, rivers – in which the revellers take the “leap of joy”.
Enjoyed by children and adults alike, the festival also includes playing the traditional gumott (percussion instrument), a boat festival, servings of feni, and a place of pride for new sons-in-law.
What does jump into water bodies symbolise?
The youngsters in Goa celebrate this occasion with revelry and perform daredevil feats, by jumping into over flowing wells or rivulets.
The boys are found merrily jumping into the water to commemorate the leap of joy, which St John is said to have taken in the womb of his mother St Elizabeth when virgin Mary visited her.
The festival, celebrated annually on June 24 at the onset of monsoon by people cutting across religious lines, also saw tourists joining the local revellers with great zeal.
Siolim, a village in North Goa, hosts a traditional canoe parade on the occasion of Sao Joao.
The Sao Joao Festival at Siolim is popular for its traditional boat parade in which boats are decorated with flowers and flags. The children, women and young girls wear flower copels around their heads. The event concludes with short plays and traditional song performances.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to enjoy the Sanjoao festival and experience the most exhilarating party at Bay 15 resort, known as Elusive Saojoao.
Embrace Siolim’s Traditional Festival:
The Sanjoao festival in Goa is a traditional event with deep-rooted cultural significance. It is celebrated on June 24th each year, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of water. Start your experience by witnessing the lively processions through the village streets, where vibrant floats and decorated boats make their way to the river.
Immerse Yourself in Elusive Saojoao at Bay 15 Resort: Buy tickets here
For an extraordinary Sanjoao celebration, head to the renowned Bay 15 resort, which hosts the Elusive Saojoao event. This beachfront resort provides the perfect setting for an enchanting night filled with music, dance, and festivities. Get ready to indulge in the following highlights:
a) Raindance: Dance your heart out in the exhilarating rain dance arena, where you can groove to pulsating beats while water showers down, creating a euphoric atmosphere.
b) Live Bands: Feel the rhythm as talented local and international bands take the stage, playing a mix of traditional Goan music and contemporary tunes. Let the melodies uplift your spirits and make you sway to the music.
c) Beer Gardens: Quench your thirst with a refreshing array of locally brewed beers and craft cocktails available at the resort’s vibrant beer gardens. Raise a glass with fellow revellers and toast to the festive spirit.
d) Gogo Dancers: Witness captivating performances by energetic go-go dancers, whose moves and costumes add an extra layer of excitement and glamour to the festivities.
e) Yummy Food: Treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary experience with a variety of mouth-watering Goan delicacies and international cuisines. Savour the flavours of Goa while enjoying the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
f) Fireworks: As the night sky darkens, marvel at the breath-taking fireworks display that illuminates the resort and adds a touch of enchantment to the entire celebration. It is a sight not to be missed.
Engage in the Festive Spirit:
Beyond the festivities at Bay 15 resort, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the Sanjoao festival’s exuberance. Interact with the locals, who are known for their warm hospitality, and participate in traditional games and activities organized throughout the village. Join in the merriment as people jump into wells and rivers to honour St. John the Baptist, a symbolic act of purification.
Tips for a Memorable Experience:
Plan your visit in advance: Since the Sanjoao festival attracts many visitors, make sure to book your accommodations and festival tickets well ahead of time.
Dress comfortably: Given the festive and lively nature of the event, choose lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day