Editorial photo #13905020 Arts, Culture and Entertainment

Sao Joao Festivities In Porto, Portugal

People participate in the Sao Joao festivities in Porto, Portugal, on June 23, 2026. The event is one of the most anticipated in the city, beginning on June 23 and continuing until dawn the next day. Participants use plastic hammers to playfully tap passers-by, while the aroma of grilled sardines and peppers fills the air. The streets of Porto's historic center are decorated for the occasion, and Sao Joao balloons are released into the sky at night. The highlight of the festivities is a traditional firework display at midnight, lasting 16 minutes, drawing thousands to the banks of the River Douro. (Photo by Telmo Pinto/NurPhoto)