Saint George’s Festival: Bravery & Tradition
Overview
We will meet at the Central do Brasil Metro station exit. After a short introduction, we will walk to the church called Igreja de São Gonçalo Garcia e São Jorge. It is most likely that we will not enter the temple, as the queue could take about two hours. However, we will observe and discuss the activities happening outside: Catholic Mass, Afro-Brazilian religious rites, commerce, faith, and celebrations.
After the tour, it is up to you to return to the church and wait in line to enter.
Then, we will see the exterior of the Fire Department building, try to find the image of the saint being carried on a truck through the downtown streets, and visit several places where people gather to celebrate (churches, bars, etc.). We will finish in Lapa by the aqueduct, where the National Sanctuary of Zé Pilintra is located (an Afro-Brazilian religious entity).
Optionally, I can show you a place with several restaurants where you can try the traditional Feijoada de São Jorge. (Food, drinks, etc., are not included in the free tour; you will need to cover these costs yourself.)
This activity includes:
- Labuta Bar
- Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro
- Corpo De Bombeiros Militar Do Estado Do Rio De Janeiro Destacamento De Bombeiro Militar
- Rua Do Lavradio
- St. Anthony Parish of the Poor
- Carioca Aqueduct
- Masonic Palace Lavradio
- Restaurante Santo Scenarium
- Official Guide
- Explanations and Cultural Notes
Our Guides
On arrival
We will meet outside Exit D of the Central do Brasil metro station. It is on the side where the park is (Praça da República).
If you share your WhatsApp with me, I´ll be sending my live location when I arrive.
Things to note
We do not intend to visit each point from the inside. In some cases, it will be too crowded, and in others, it is not allowed on this holiday. However, we will stop, and I will explain what each attraction is.
This tour focuses on religion and faith, so if you feel uncomfortable with that, it may not be a good choice for you. You may not agree with some of the ways people practice their religions, but being respectful is essential so we can all enjoy the tour.
We will walk about 4 km. I strongly recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing water to stay hydrated, and using sunblock if necessary.
This tour is only available on April 23rd, as that is when the celebration takes place.
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
