Events · Religious
Nossa Senhora da Assunção in Vila do Porto, 15 August 2027
Santa Maria's capital honours its patron saint on 15 August, at the heart of the island's busiest summer weeks. In 2027 the feast falls on a Sunday.
2 min read
Updated 18 October 2026
Vila do Porto, the main town of Santa Maria, celebrates its patron saint, Nossa Senhora da Assunção, on 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption. In 2027 the day falls on a Sunday.
What happens
The feast centres on the parish church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção. The statue of Our Lady, raised on a float of flowers, is carried out of the church in procession by bearers in red capes. The religious celebrations are open to all and free.
Part of Santa Maria's August
Mid-August is the liveliest time of year on Santa Maria. The Visit Azores religious tourism guide links the Assunção festivities with the Maré de Agosto music festival, which adds concerts and literary events to the island's summer. The festival's 2027 dates have not been announced yet, so check its own channels before you book.
Practical notes
August is high season on a small island, so book flights or ferries and accommodation early. The parish sets the exact times of mass and procession in its programme closer to the date.
Stay for the whole week if you can. The feast day and the music festival together make August the best time to see Santa Maria at its most sociable.
- When
- 15 August 2027, 00:00–23:59
- Recurs
- Every year on 15 August
- Where
- Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, Vila do Porto
- Price
- Free
- Organiser
- Paróquia de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, Vila do Porto
