Festival in Honour of Saint Simon

The Festival in honour of Saint Simão takes place in Novais, in the Parish Union of Ruivães e Novais, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Famalicão. It is organised by the Festivities Committee of the Parish Union of Ruivães e Novais, which keeps this celebration alive over three days. The programme combines the religious and the festive dimensions: there is a Eucharist and a procession, accompanied by musical performances and the moments of communal gathering that are the hallmark of these local festivities. The parish has a notable tradition of religious and community celebrations. These include the Queima do Judas, which has grown over the years with the participation of various community members and associations, the Via Sacra on Good Friday, and the Festas Antoninas, one of the great annual events of the locality.

Nestled in the lush greenery of Minho, Novais and Ruivães are two villages in the municipality of Vila Nova de Famalicão where time seems to move more slowly. These are places of ancient paths, stone chapels and people bound to the land, to neighbourly bonds and to the devotions that bring the whole village together. From the ancient archaeological site of São João de Perrelos to the parish churches, there is heritage with soul here — the kind that cannot be rushed. And there is the generous, honest table of Minho, made of rojões, roast kid and pastries that close the meal with sweetness. It is well worth slowing down and discovering these roots, firmly planted in the soil.