From religious to cultural, there are many reasons for the people of São Tomé and Príncipe celebrate life and their country’s culture.
There are several festivities in São Tome and Príncipe. The best known are the following ones:
São Tomé and Príncipe Day
It is a very special day for the islanders. On this day, the discovery of São Tomé by the Portuguese navigators is celebrated. A historical event that occurred in 1470 and is still celebrated today with music, dance and great joy.
Initially celebrated on December 21st, it is currently celebrated on July 3rd.
Biennial of African Art and Culture
A celebration that aims to value and to promote the culture of São Tomé and Príncipe, helping to expand it around the world. Dozens of artists, national and international, participate in this festivity, where African art, music and culture are the most important.
Autonomy Festivity
Autonomy Festivity is one of the most awaited national festivities. It is precisely on this day that the autonomy of the island and the independence conquest are celebrated.
It is also at this event that the path São Tomé and Príncipe has been following over the years towards the development and the improvement of the living conditions of its people is recognized.
São Lourenço Festivity
August is the month of culture in São Tomé and Príncipe and the venue of countless celebrations. One of them is São Lourenço Festivity, or Auto de Floripes Festivity, which happens annually on August 15th.
Auto de Floripes is the most important theatrical event of the island. Its goal is to recreate the clash between Christians and Moors and the history of European kingdoms in the medieval era.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Did you know that Portuguese is not the only spoken language in São Tomé and Príncipe? Even though it is a relatively small land, it is also spoken the Principense (or Lunguyê). With less predominance, it is still possible to hear Forro speakers.