Popular Animation
Ascension Day
Thursday | 14th of May | 5:00 p.m. | Igreja Matriz da Ponta do Sol
The Aqui Acolá Festival continues to promote popular culture, showcasing the most distinctive aspects of Ponta do Sol. The Ascension Day Festivity, a religious celebration held in Ponta do Sol with unique characteristics in the country, takes place on the first day of the Festival.
It consists of a Catholic Mass, organized independently of the festival, but which, due to its uniqueness, - especially the ritual of scattering rose petals, which are later collected to be sprinkled on crops or fruit trees - deserves special attention and promotion.
The Aqui Acolá collaborates in the organisation of the Parade of the Holy Spirit and other logistical aspects that make the whole celebration possible. A contribution that allows for the celebration of cultural traditions at its finest.
Espetáculo das Saloias
Thursday | 14th of May | 6:30 p.m. | Adro da Igreja Matriz da Ponta do Sol
Aqui Acolá Festival presents a show featuring the songs of the Holy Spirit, performed by “Saloias” (women) from the various parishes in the municipality, dressed in traditional atire.
This festive atmosphere will continue after the festivities of Ascension Day in the churchyard of the Matriz da Ponta do Sol, in the true style of Madeiran festivals.
Release of traditional handmade hot air balloons
Thursday | 14th of May | 7:30 p.m. | Ponta do Sol beach
The release of hot-air balloons built by local residents is a deeply rooted tradition at various festivals in Ponta do Sol.
This year, they will also be released to celebrate the Ascension of the Lord, in a ceremony that symbolizes joy, faith, and fellowship. These handcrafted balloons, carefully made, will be released into the sky as an expression of popular faith.
Release of traditional handmade hot air balloons
Friday | 15th of May | 9:30 p.m. | Ponta do Sol beach
The release of hot-air balloons built by local residents is a deeply rooted tradition at various festivals in Ponta do Sol.
This year, they will also be released to celebrate the Ascension of the Lord, in a ceremony that symbolizes joy, faith, and fellowship. These handcrafted balloons, carefully made, will be released into the sky as an expression of popular faith.
Street entertainment and traditional games – Grupo de Folclore da Ponta do Sol
Saturday | 16th of May | 3:00 p.m. | Ruas da Vila da Ponta do Sol
The Folk Group, known as the Grupo de Folclore da Ponta do Sol, was founded to safeguard cultural heritage at risk of being lost, with the aim of collecting, preserving, and promoting the customs, traditions, and cultural practices of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, particularly those of the municipality of Ponta do Sol.
Release of traditional handmade hot air balloons from the workshop
Sunday | 17th of May | 2:00 p.m. | Ponta do Sol beach
