The Porto (& Vila Nova de Gaia’s-too) celbration of Saint John The Baptist- or São Joao eve

This past summer was our very first celebration of a Porto/Gaia Tradition- kinda like , well nothing else in The States really.

There’s Fireworks; launched from Bridges and from floating launch sites, anchored to the bed of The Douro River.

There’s flaming Flame-Driven-Balloons, by the 100’s if not thousands filling the skies, landing often on Trees, Rooftops and “wher-ever”.

Then, there’s the Plastic-Squeaky-Hammer-Hitting.

Oh- and drinking. Lots of drinking. But, if you are a dog owner, it’s a night to medicate them with some Doggy Xanax, or CBD, because it frightens the hell outta the little fella.

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Uploaded on September 14, 2025
Taken on June 24, 2025