the fluminense (from the state of rio) folkloric tradition is a celebratory one, and abounds with saints days, anniversaries and remembrances that are cause for much public joyousness.

while many of these venerated dates come from old european religious traditions, they have taken on a new character and identity in the ocean-side crucible of rio de janeiro.

from celebrations of patron saints to unique local variations on christian processionals, the festivals of the marvelous city are an important part of civic life and a vehicle for public expression.