General Questions
What is the Brazilian June Festival called in Portuguese?
Festa Junina
What is the name of the typical dance performed at Festa Junina?
Quadrilha
Name three traditional foods eaten during Festa Junina.
Possible answers: Pamonha, canjica, pé de moleque, curau, milho verde, etc.
In which month is the festival primarily celebrated?
June, though some regions start in May or extend into July.
What is a "Casamento Caipira"?
A humorous fake country-style wedding performed as a skit during the festival.
What is "quentão," and when is it typically consumed?
A hot drink made with cachaça, ginger, and spices, usually drunk to keep warm during cold June nights.
How do people typically dress for the festival?
checkered shirts, straw hats, freckles, and painted gap teeth for fun.
Why do people light bonfires during the festival?
To celebrate St. John’s night and for warmth/symbolism, as it has European Midsummer roots.
Which ingredient is common in most Festa Junina sweets?
Corn, since June is the corn harvest season in Brazil.
Which three Catholic saints are traditionally honored during Festa Junina?
St. John [São João], St. Anthony [Santo Antônio], and St. Peter [São Pedro]
In which Brazilian region is Festa Junina considered bigger than Carnival?
The Northeast, especially in Campina Grande and Caruaru!
What is "pé de moleque," and how is it made?
A sweet made from peanuts and caramelized sugar, similar to peanut brittle.