On December 16th and 17th, 2025, the João Paulo II Educational Centre held another edition of the traditional Folia de Reis celebration, held in Pelourinho, in Salvador’s Historic Centre, and in the community where the Institution is located.
The event brought the community together around one of the most symbolic expressions of Brazilian catholic popular culture, which refers to the journey of the Three Kings in search of the baby Jesus, accompanied by chants, music, choreography, and the emblematic Flag of the Divine. Of Portuguese origin, the Folia de Reis held by the João Paulo II Educational Centre began in 2001 and annually involves around 200 children and teenagers in the performances. Having been celebrated for over 20 years, the Folia de Reis has established itself as a cultural manifestation that transcends generations.
On December 16th, the gathering took place at Praça da Cruz Caída, from where the procession proceeded through important religious and historical points in the historic centre of Salvador. The Folia de Reis passed by the city’s magnificent Cathedral, the Church of the Brotherhood of Saint Francis, and the Church of the Brotherhood of Saint Dominic, which every year await and warmly welcome the arrival of the Three Kings and the joyful procession. The route ended at the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Blacks, in Pelourinho, a space marked by strong popular devotion.
For over two decades, the event aims to preserve traditions and strengthen the revival of popular culture. Each performance is the result of much preparation, rehearsals, and collective dedication. The colourful parades enchant residents and visitors, filling the streets with the joy of clowns, revellers, flag bearers, angels, the Three Kings, percussionists, and a crowd that accompanies and celebrates every moment of the walk.
On December 17th, the Folia de Reis procession took over the streets of the community. Leaving the parish church of Jesus Christ Resurrected, in Araças, it passed through the communities of São João and Boiadeiro, visited numerous homes and institutions in the community, and passed in front of the Ivone Viera Lima Municipal School where it was welcomed by the joy of the students. The stop of the procession at the homes of the residents is the most moving moment of the Folia de Reis, which revives bonds of belonging and values the presence of young people and children in the life of the community.
We thank all the families who wanted to welcome the passage of the procession, as well as the parish priests of the beautiful churches in the historic centre, for providing the realization of this Christmas event, full of light and joy for all participants and for the community.
