No chaos, no crowds, a Sao Joao in Goa like no other

TRULY LOCAL

Tuesday (June 24) saw a soulful celebration of Sao Joao in Goa's St Estevam island, uniquely put together by the team of The Local Beat, who are passionate about preserving all things authentically Goan.

MUSIC MATTERS

Far from the frenzy, this was a Sao Joao in Goa like no other. It was all about tradition that felt truly Goan.

STEPPING UP SWEETNESS

For those experiencing it for the first time, like this young woman carrying a traditional fruit basket on her head, the occasion was a joyful step into Goa’s cultural soul.

BOUNTIFUL

A Sao Joao essential, this fruit basket overflows with the season’s bounty, echoing the festival’s spirit of gratitude, abundance, and tradition.

INTO THE BEAT

The Local Beat, known for creating such occasions, had invited a select few to this corner of Goa for this day-long, tradition-packed celebration.

ONE FOR THE DAY

A spirited start to the celebration — a shot of feni, with a dash of lime and salt that set the tone for laughter, music, and Goan cheer.

SWEETENING IT UP

Everyone savoured the seasonal bounty of jackfruits, mangoes, and juicy pineapples straight from the fruit basket, and experienced a true taste of Goa’s monsoon harvest.

SPLASH FOR THE SAINT

No Sao Joao is complete without that iconic leap of joy honouring St John the Baptist. The splash into the waters was made safe with life jackets, thus blending tradition with responsible fun.

COCKTAIL KICK

A feni cocktail with a kick. This chilli-infused special added just the right spice to pep up the party with every fiery sip and dip.

FEAST FLAVOURS

And the food. It was authentically Goan and rooted in tradition. From the Chicken Xacuti to crunchy Kismur, every pot told a story of heritage, home, and heart.

FLOATING MOMENT

And for those willing to experience a bit more, a short boat ride offered a quiet glimpse into the island’s hidden beauty. It was the perfect ending to a day steeped in tradition, laughter, and the magic of Sao Joao.

NEXT: Five spots in South Goa that look different in the monsoon