Festival of Bonfim 2009!

Every January, Salvador celebrates the Festival of Bonfim – one of the biggest celebrations of the year. Dressed in white, hundreds of thousands of people walk the 8 kilometers to the famous Church of Bonfim. There, Baianas wash the steps to the church and devotees make offerings and requests to the Senhor do Bonfim. The procession to the church is a mix of music, dance, and general celebration. 

Dialogo teachers: Lara, Tatiana, Jamilly, and Kleber

Students from the University of Delaware taking part in the parade

During the parade, various groups pass by performing. These Baianas, wearing the traditional white dresses, form part of the procession.

Dialogo team and students at the Castro Alves Plaza, getting ready for the procession

Bonfim ribbons are tied onto the gate of Bonfim church representing the wishes of devotees

Delaware students with Baianas passing in the procession

Dialogo team and students watching the parade pass

In the Bahian spirit!