If you plan your visit to Goa around 24 June, you’re in for one of our most magical days of the year. As a Goan local and tourism enthusiast, I can tell you São João isn’t just another festival—it’s a splashy, rain-soaked party that celebrates faith, nature and community in equal measure. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the festival’s roots, where to join in, what to wear and eat, safety tips, and even other monsoon events you shouldn’t miss.
Introduction
Every year on 24 June, Goa transforms into a landscape of green fields, overflowing wells and joyful crowds. São João honors St. John the Baptist—whose birth is celebrated exactly six months before Christmas—but here in Goa, we’ve woven our monsoon traditions into the feast. Picture this: young men (and sometimes daring women) leap into water, villagers wear fresh flower crowns, folk songs fill the air and home-cooked meals are shared freely. Ready to dive in?
Origins: Faith Meets Monsoon
The Biblical Leap
According to Christian lore, when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth, the unborn John “leapt” in Elizabeth’s womb. That moment of joy became the heart of this feast.
The Goan Twist
For centuries, Goans—whose lives depend on the rains—have added a local layer of thanksgiving. By late June, wells brim and rivers swell. Jumping into water bodies became a way to honor the rains and reenact John’s leap. Over time, flower crowns, folk music and family feasts transformed São João into a uniquely Goan celebration.
Where to Celebrate: Village Spotlights
Goa’s Catholic villages all mark São João, but these spots shine brightest:
Siolim (Bardez, North Goa)
Boat Parade on Chapora River: Floats decked in palms and flowers drift by St. Anthony’s Church, complete with live Konkani skits and music.
Community Vibe: Villagers from Chapora, Anjuna and Assagao join in—keeping a 175-year-old tradition alive.
Saligao (Bardez, North Goa)
Vangodd de Saligao: This “community union” feast focuses on togetherness. Families cook extra to feed visitors, and dancers in floral kopels circle the well—though many now celebrate without jumping, to save water.
Assagao & Anjuna (Bardez, North Goa)
Authentic Well-Jumping: Cheerful yells of “Viva São João!” echo as locals dive into village wells. Expect impromptu rain-dance parties and folk songs.
Benaulim & Assolna (Salcete, South Goa)
Village Plays & Pond Jumps: South Goan youth stage dramas, dance in the streets and plunge into ponds, keeping the festive spirit alive.
Traditions and Activities
1. Leaping into Wells and Streams
Symbolic Joy: Represents John’s prenatal leap and thanks for monsoon blessings.
Safety Tips: Join in known areas, avoid mixing heavy drinking with diving, and watch for makeshift pools at larger events.
2. Wearing Floral Kopels
Natural Crowns: Made from local blossoms, vines and fruits.
You Can Join: Locals often help tourists weave kopels or sell ready-made ones roadside.
3. Folk Music and Dance
Instruments: Ghumot (percussion drum) and kansallem (metal cymbals) set the beat.
Dances: You’ll see Mando, Dhalo and sometimes modern DJ sets rain-dancing under open skies.
4. Zanvoyachem Fest (Sons-in-Law Feast)
Family Honor: Newlywed sons-in-law are invited to the bride’s home, doused with water and treated to a special lunch.
Ojem Gift: A gift basket of fruits and sweets to carry home.
5. Modern Pool Parties
Resort & Club Events: DJs, themed dress codes, unlimited feni shots—great for those who want a structured party.
How Tourists Can Join In
Blend In
Head to Siolim or Saligao by mid-day—villagers welcome curious guests.
Greet people with “Viva São João!” and offer a smile.
Respect Traditions
Dress modestly for morning mass (shoulders and knees covered).
Ask before photographing or before diving in a well.
Stay Safe
If you can’t swim, skip the jump.
Pace your feni intake—locals advise against heavy drinks before water activities.
Look for Official Events
Goa Tourism sometimes hosts ticketed “Viva São João” bashes in Panjim or Old Goa.
Combines folk performances with modern entertainment.
What to Wear, Pack & Expect
Clothing: Quick-dry shorts or swimwear under light shirts.
Footwear: Sports sandals or floaters with good grip. Avoid flip-flops.
Rain Gear: Poncho, compact umbrella, waterproof bag.
Essentials: Waterproof phone pouch, small towel, mosquito repellent, basic first-aid.
Tip: In Socorro, you might catch a Jackfruit Festival on the same day—think cakes, curries and chips, all from jackfruit!
Extras: Water bottle (ironically), zip-lock for valuables, a sense of adventure
What to eat
| Dish / Drink | Details |
|---|---|
| Patoleo | Sweet coconut-jaggery dumplings steamed in turmeric leaf. |
| Sannas | Fluffy rice cakes fermented with toddy (palm sap). |
| Pork Vindaloo | Spicy pork curry, a festival staple. |
| Feni & Urrak | Local spirits distilled from cashew or coconut. |
| Seasonal Fruits | Jackfruit, mango, watermelon—shared freely. |
Tip: In Socorro, you might catch a Jackfruit Festival on the same day—think cakes, curries and chips, all from jackfruit!
Other Monsoon Festivals to Explore
Sangodd (29 June): Fishermen’s boat parade honoring St. Peter and Paul.
Chikhal Kalo (Early July): Mud-wrestling in Marcel’s Krishna temple courtyard.
Touxeachem Fest (Late July): Cucumber offerings at Talaulim’s St. Anne’s Church.
Bonderam (Fourth Saturday, August): Flag-war pageant on Divar Island.
Patolleanchem Fest (Mid-August): Patoleo feast in Socorro, often around India’s Independence Day.
These gatherings showcase Goa’s deep bond with nature, faith and community—plan your monsoon trip around one or more for a truly local experience.
Travel Tips for Monsoon Goa
Getting There & Around
Off-Season Perks: Flights and trains often cheaper.
Roads: Rent a vehicle but drive slowly on slippery roads.
Buses & Ferries: Extra buses on festival days; ferry to Divar or Chorao usually runs unless floods.
Where to Stay
Deals: Up to 50% off peak rates. Try heritage villas or village homestays.
Location: Book near your festival of choice (Siolim, Saligao, Benaulim).
Safety & Health
Beach Warning: No sea swimming—strong rip currents.
Footwear: Grip-sole shoes for forts and waterfalls.
Mosquitoes: Apply repellent after dusk to avoid dengue risk.
Off-Peak Attractions
Waterfalls: Dudhsagar (view from train or jeep), Arvalem Falls & Caves.
Spice Farms: Savoi or Tropical Spice Plantation in Ponda for a rainy-forest tour.
Wildlife: Bondla & Mollem sanctuaries—wear long socks for leeches.
River Cruises: Mandovi sunset cruises with Goan folk dance onboard.
Conclusion
São João in Goa is more than a festival—it’s a living story of faith, nature and community. From wading into village wells to savoring home-made sweets, every moment feels personal and vibrant. Whether you’re dancing with locals in Saligao or enjoying a pool bash under the rain, this festival will stay in your heart long after you dry off.
Ready to plan your monsoon trip? Check our Goa in June monsoon guide and explore nearby villages with our North Goa village travel tips.
Why is Sao Joao celebrated in Goa?
The festival is celebrated to honor the birth of St. John the Baptist and to give thanks for the monsoon rains that rejuvenate the landtataneu.com. Goa, being a largely Catholic region with agrarian roots, blended the biblical significance (John’s joyful leap and Jesus’s baptism by John) with a thanksgiving for rain and nature’s bounty. The idea is to celebrate renewal, joy, and community spirit – by getting literally immersed in water, Goans symbolically embrace the blessings of the rainy season and show their exuberance and gratitude for nature’s gifts.
When is Sao Joao Festival celebrated?
Sao Joao is celebrated annually on 24th June. The date remains the same every year since it’s tied to St. John’s feast day (exactly six months before Christmas). If the 24th falls on a weekday, the festivities still happen on that day; it’s a public feast, and Goans will take off work or school to celebrate. Many village communities start minor celebrations on the weekend closest to 24th June as well, but the main events – the well jumping, boat parade in Siolim, etc. – all happen on June 24 (rain or shine!).
What are the main traditions of Sao Joao in Goa?
he hallmark traditions include leaping into wells, ponds, and streams (thrilling water rituals unique to Goa)indianexpress.com, wearing kopel floral wreaths on the head, singing traditional Konkani songs and hymns, dancing (from folk dances like mando to modern rain dancing), and organizing boat parades in some are. There’s also the social custom of honoring new sons-in-law with a special feast, and exchanging seasonal fruits and delicacies. All of these are done in a very merry, community-driven way. People also pray for good rainfall and prosperity during church services in the morning, so there’s a mix of religious observance and rambunctious celebration through the day.
Which is the most famous festival in Goa during the monsoon?
São João is arguably the most famous monsoon festival in Goa, certainly one of the biggest crowd-pullers in the rainy seasontataneu.com. While Goa has several monsoon-time events (e.g., the mud-filled Chikhal Kalo or the float parade of Bonderam), Sao Joao stands out for its statewide participation and unique water festivities. It’s the one monsoon festival that both locals and tourists look forward to for its sheer fun factor. If someone asks “which festival should I see in Goa during the rains?” – the answer is almost always Sao Joao. (That said, each monsoon festival has its charm, but Sao Joao is the most well-known and widely celebrated.)
Where can I experience the best of Sao Joao Festival in Goa?
São João is celebrated all over Goa, but North Goa’s Bardez taluka is especially famous for it. Villages like Siolim, Anjuna, Saligao, Assagao, Calangute, and Candolim in the north have high-spirited celebrations open to visitors. Siolim is particularly renowned for its afternoon boat parade and draws huge crowdsgomantaktimes.com. In South Goa (Salcete taluka), places like Benaulim, Colva, and Assolna are known for lively local fêtes. If you’re in Panjim, you might even catch youth groups celebrating in Fontainhas area and jumping in the municipal fountain! Additionally, some hotels and resorts host Sao Joao pool parties. But for an authentic experience, heading to one of the Bardez villages (Siolim or Anjuna for example) on June 24th is your best bet. You can easily join the revelry there – just follow the sound of the drums and cheers.
Can tourists take part in the well-jumping and celebrations?
es! Tourists are welcome to participate in Sao Joao festivities. There’s no strict protocol – if you arrive at a village event, you can absolutely join in the dancing, wear a kopel, and even hop into the water (just ensure you can swim and follow any local safety guidance). Locals are quite welcoming and often encourage visitors to experience the fun. Just be respectful (as you would at any cultural event) and use common sense. If you’re unsure how to join an activity, just ask someone with a smile – Goans will gladly guide you. Many travelers recount stories of being spontaneously included, handed fruits or drinks, and having an amazing time. So don’t hesitate to get involved – Sao Joao in Goa is very visitor-friendly.
What should I wear or bring if I attend Sao Joao?
Dress for getting wet! Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind soaking (shorts, t-shirts, etc.), and footwear with a good grip (rubber sandals or sneakers that can handle mud). A floral kopel headgear is usually given or can be made on the spot, so you don’t need to bring that unless you want to make one. Carry a small raincoat or poncho since monsoon showers are likely. It’s wise to keep your phone and valuables in a waterproof pouch. Bringing a towel or an extra dry t-shirt in a waterproof bag can make your ride back more comfortable. And most importantly, bring your sense of adventure! Expect to be splashed or even tossed into a pool (in good humor). Also, a greeting of “Viva Sao Joao!” and a big smile will go a long way in breaking the ice with locals.
Is there an entry fee or ticket for Sao Joao events?
The village celebrations of Sao Joao are free – they are community festivals, so anyone can join in. Just show up and enjoy. If a village has a organized stage or boat parade, there’s no ticket to watch; you might just stand along with everyone else. However, if you attend a commercial pool party at a resort or a club’s Sao Joao party, those will have entry fees or require passes (just like any event). The prices vary by venue – some pool parties in 5-star hotels can be a bit pricey, whereas local ones at smaller venues are moderate. Also, if Goa Tourism or a local municipality hosts a public Sao Joao program (like at Old Goa or a city square), those are usually free entry for all. In summary, experiencing Sao Joao doesn’t require a ticket – only the optional after-parties do.
What’s the origin of the name “Sao Joao”?
Sao Joao” is simply the Konkani/Portuguese way of saying “Saint John.” During centuries of Portuguese influence in Goa, many Christian festivals took on Portuguese names. So São João literally means St. John (the Baptist), to whom the festival is dedicated. You might also hear locals call it “San Juanv” in Konkani, which is another variant of St. John. The name highlights the Catholic roots of the feast. Over time, even non-Catholic Goans use the term to refer to the festival day full of fun and frolic.
