Festa Junina (June Festival) is Brazil’s ‘other’ carnival – traditionally a mid-year folkloric harvest celebration festival that spreads across the whole month of June (and even July), it’s a popular cultural event all over Brazil with the biggest celebrations in the North East.

In Western terms it’s like a big country barn dance, with people dressed up in hillbilly, country-styled clothes, tasty food treats and hot mulled wine! Luiz Gonzaga is king and the folkloric sounds of Brazil’s North East rule the festivities (Forro, Baiao, xote, xaxado!). The main event of the party is the ‘quadrilha’ (group square dance) where everybody is encouraged to participate!

Come hungry – Vira Lata Food Truck is celebrating three years roaming the streets of Brisbane, preparing a special Festa Junina menu and some surprises alongside the Tapioca Tribe crew.

Festa Junina is typically a ‘dress-up’ event and everyone is encouraged to don some country style clothing including oddities like silly hats, ripped pants, wigs, painted on freckles and so on … so get creative or visit your local op shop for some cheap hillbilly threads.