Festa do Divino in Pirenópolis: how it works and how to join in

The Festa do Divino Espírito Santo (Festival of the Divine Holy Spirit) is the greatest cultural symbol of Pirenópolis. It blends Catholic devotion, traditions brought over in colonial times and popular festivity, and involves the whole town for weeks. On 13 May 2010, Iphan, Brazil’s national heritage institute, registered the celebration as Cultural Heritage of Brazil in its Register of Celebrations; the registration was renewed in 2025.

When it takes place

The festival revolves around Pentecost Sunday, fifty days after Easter. Since the date of Easter changes, so does the festival — it usually falls between May and June.

In 2026, the Cultural Calendar published by the City Hall recorded:

For 2027, Pentecost Sunday falls on 16 May according to the liturgical calendar. The 2027 programme has not yet been announced — check the official calendar before booking.

What happens during the festival

Folias

Groups of foliões (devotional musicians) travel through the countryside carrying the banner of the Divine Holy Spirit, singing, praying and stopping overnight at farms. The arrival of the folias in town is one of the most moving moments.

Novena and religious celebrations

Masses, the novena, processions and the figure of the Imperador do Divino (Emperor of the Divine), chosen each year, mark the religious side. The Emperor’s procession on Pentecost Sunday is one of the highlights.

Cavalhadas and masked riders

Over three days, the Cavalhadas re-enact the battles between Christians and Moors, with horsemen in blue and red costumes. All around, the mascarados (masked figures) roam the town in colourful masks, many shaped like ox heads. We explain it all in Cavalhadas of Pirenópolis.

Reinados and other traditions

The reinados of São Benedito and Nossa Senhora do Rosário, the Pastorinhas and other traditions round off the programme. After the festival, at Corpus Christi, there is also the Cavalhadinha, performed by children.

Discovering the festival out of season

The Museu do Divino, in the old Town Hall and Jail building next to the bridge over the Rio das Almas, presents the history and symbols of the celebration. See Museu do Divino.

How to plan

• Book accommodation well in advance. This is the busiest time of the year. See where to stay.
• Follow the official programme for the edition: times of masses, processions and the Cavalhadas change.
• Respect the religious moments and give space to the foliões, horsemen and masked figures.
• A hat, sunscreen and water help: many activities are outdoors.