For those in the Algarve at the end of August, as the high season draws to a close, a treat awaits. The Festa do Banho Santo, or the Holy Bath Festival, takes place annually on 29 August. It’s a celebration when locals and visitors alike flock to the beaches and rivers to partake in a ritual whose origins are lost in the midst of time. So, where did this tradition come from and how does it reflect changing cultural traditions?
This celebration has been a public event for centuries, flourishing particularly in the Algarve region, where the blend of seaside revelry and traditional customs draws thousands every year. One of my last pre-children all-nighters was at the Banho 29. A group of us set up camp on Meia Praia with a large fire, a bar made of driftwood and a speaker – not sure if we had Bluetooth in those days! All along the beach, you could see campfires and at midnight, we all dashed into the ocean. But why!?
A blend of cultures and beliefs
I have written many articles on Banho 29 over the years and researched it on countless occasions. Last year, the Lagos archivist kindly wrote an article about the historical evidence surrounding the event (see here). But what has become clear is that we don’t really know and any research poses more questions than it answers.
The general consensus is that in the past, when bathing was not a regular occurrence, people believed that immersing oneself in water would cleanse both body and spirit. The mythical Holy Bath was said to be worth 29 baths in spirit. So were they merely excusing themselves from regular hygiene for the rest of the year!?
Historians believe that the origins of the Banho Santo can be traced back to a rich tapestry of classical mythology and early Christianity. Its roots lie in the tale of John the Baptist, who baptised Jesus in the River Jordan. Although the festival coincides with the martyrdom of John the Baptist, is this just a coincidence? Does the Algarve tradition reflect a more profound cultural symbolism – one of purification and renewal, as participants dive into the waters seeking to rejuvenate their spirits at the end of summer?
Originally, families would come to the coast after a long agricultural season, bringing livestock to the ocean for healing and rejuvenation, as seawater was thought to be a potent remedy for various ailments.
Traditions through the ages
Historically, the ritual was steeped in a communal spirit, often involving a feast with family and friends. Although modern celebrations have evolved, the essence remains – many participants still enjoy picnics, bonfires, and communal revelry on the beach as they await the midnight hour when they take a plunge in the waves. Today, the vibrant atmosphere is complemented by musical performances and sometimes even competitions, such as the showcase of traditional bathing costumes in Lagos.
In larger towns like Lagos, one can witness spectacular gatherings at popular beaches such as Praia da Batata and Meia Praia, where residents and tourists come together to honour this end-of-summer rite. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, music, and the anticipation of the midnight swim, making it a delightful spectacle for any visitor to the region.
A cultural shift
While the festival retains its traditional roots, the way it is celebrated has shifted over the years. The communal aspect of bathing by the sea has transitioned from a ritualistic act to one of pure enjoyment and modern revelry. The once-common practice of visiting the beach as part of social customs has now become a popular pastime for everyone, from locals to tourists.
Interestingly, the attire for bathing has undergone a transformation as well. What began as everyday clothing evolved and, by the early 20th century, swimsuits became commonplace, marking another shift in the way the festival has adapted to modern societal norms.
Join the celebration!
The Festa do Banho Santo is an invitation to experience the unique spirit of the Algarve and celebrate its history. Whether you join in with a midnight dip or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, participating in this tradition is an opportunity to connect with the local culture and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting part of Portugal.
Main photo: courtesy of Município de Lagos
Making a splash with style
In 2024, local fashion designer Jessica António won the Lagos bathing suit competition at the Lagos Banho 29. She tells us how it felt to be victorious on this special night.
Jessica often looks back on how culture and society used to be, so she was eager to participate in this event, which celebrates bathing costumes through the ages. “It was an opportunity not only to promote my work, but also to pay tribute to Portuguese culture and how to embrace it in a modern and sustainable way.”
Jessica’s winning outfit was inspired by the transformation of the swimsuit over the decades. The design featured an intricate use of bows that ingeniously allowed a three-layered ensemble to unravel, revealing a traditional swimming costume underneath, made from an up-cycled cotton dress. This thoughtful construction showcased versatility and creativity, underscoring the designer’s commitment to reducing waste in the fashion industry.
However, Jessica really didn’t expect to win and found the huge crowds the event attracts to be overwhelming. “I am not used to being on camera and being in front of the entire city made me feel super nervous. I knew my designs were very special and unique, but I was unsure whether the judges would even understand my concept.”
Coming to the end of the prize announcements and with just the two top places left, Jessica had given up hope of winning and couldn´t believe it when they called her name out for first prize.
“I couldn’t help but cry my eyes out. It was a very special and fortuitous prize as I was waiting to hear from the câmara municipal whether I would be receiving a home for my family or not. That money was a great help to get us installed in our new home.”
It was even more special for Jessica as Banho 29 is an event she remembers from her childhood. “I remember going to watch fireworks, bonfires at the beach and midnight swims with friends. It is also an event that serves to preserve our history. Banho 29 has been part of our culture for many years and only a few actually know the real meaning behind it. It’s not only a fun event, but back then it used to be the start of a new chapter; farmers would bring their cattle to bathe on the shore and cleanse.”
Jessica is keen to participate again in 2025 with a new creation. “It’ll be something out of the box again, with a double meaning, recalling how things have changed over the years regarding swimwear and beach bathing traditions.”
instagram: @jantdesign
Banho 29 in Lagos and Luz
Locations: Cais da Solaria/Jardim da Constituição and Praia da Luz
Organised by: CM Lagos and Clube Recreativo, Cultural e Desportivo Luzense
Free admission
Tradition and folklore claim that bathing on 29 August scares away demons and is equivalent to 29 baths. Whether true or not, the reality is that it is one of the most popular traditions in Lagos and a reason for a big celebration! In addition to the night-time swim, there will be historical re-enactments, food and drink, swimwear parades (traditional and modern) and lots of musical entertainment, which will be divided between the city (Rebeca at Cais da Solaria) and the parish of Luz, with this location hosting three stages in one night.
Lagos programme of events
- 11 am Avenida dos Descobrimentos and Praia da Batata | Re-enactment of the tradition of Banho 29, by the Lagos Study Centre
- 6 pm | Cais da Solaria | Zumba class with Ana Leal
- 6.45 pm | Cais da Solaria | Street entertainment with Nuno & Companhia
- 7.30 pm | Jardim da Constituição | Trio from the Algarve Jazz Orchestra
- 8.30 pm | Jardim da Constituição | DJ Set
- 8.30 pm | Cais da Solaria | Traditional Swimwear Contest
- 9.30 pm | Jardim da Constituição | Swimwear Fashion/Styling Contest
- 10.30 pm | A performance from singer Rebeca
- 12 am | Fireworks and Night Swim
- 12.15 am | MT 80 – We Rock the 80s
For Luz programme of events follow the Facebook page BANHO 29 Praia da Luz or Instagram @ banho29luz
