Feast of Saint John

Introduction:

The Feast of Saint John is one of the traditional festivals and celebrations of the Portuguese and Macanese communities of Macao, being held in June every year, also in memory of the defeat of the Dutch by the Portuguese of Macao, on June 24, 1622, which coincides with the date of Saint John that is celebrated in Portugal – also being “Saint John the Baptist’s birthday” as celebrated by Catholic churches. The victory was considered by the Portuguese of Macao as a blessing from Saint John, and they began to worship him as the patron saint of Macao. The date of June 24 was also designated as the “Patron Saint’s Day of Macao”, later renamed the “Day of the City of Macao” until 1999. Since 2007, the festivities of the Feast of Saint John have been taking place in St. Lazarus District.

Conservation Status:

The Feast of Saint John is jointly held by several local associations and organizations connected with the Portuguese community of Macao. The event integrates various activities, including music, dance, gastronomic delicacies and performances with Portuguese characteristics.

Heritage Value:

The Feast of Saint John is a traditional festive celebration of the Portuguese of Macao. Being a long-standing tradition that is directly linked with the feasts of popular saints in Portugal, this event also integrates local characteristics, also with the contributions by the local Macanese community, therefore being a celebration that has a special historical and cultural significance.