320th Anniversary of Santa Bárbara, MG in 2024

In 2024, the three-hundred-year-old town of Santa Bárbara celebrated its 320 years of history with a moving program that combined tradition, culture and joy. Located in the charming Serra do Caraça region, the town enjoyed days of intense celebration, reinforcing the pride and sense of belonging of its people. Two days of festivities delighted residents and visitors, marking a new chapter in the history of this historic Minas Gerais municipality.

The celebrations began with the presentation of the municipality's highest honor, continued with a memorable concert and sports activities, and culminated in a grand show by the band Raça Negra, which closed the festivities with plenty of emotion. Every moment reflected the strength and welcoming spirit of a people who preserve their roots and look to the future with hope.

Affonso Penna Medal of Merit

The celebrations opened with the traditional presentation of the Affonso Penna Medal of Merit, one of the most important distinctions awarded by the town. The event took place at the ACISB Event Hall and brought together authorities, honorees and guests in an evening of recognition and gratitude.

The medal, promoted by the Department of Culture and Tourism Development, honors people and institutions that have made a significant contribution to the social, cultural and economic development of Santa Bárbara. In 2024, the honorees were the Municipal Sports League, Maria Geralda Dias — the charismatic Dona Lilia of Brumal — and Sebastião Antônio da Silva, the beloved Macalé (in memoriam).

Each honoree received warm applause from the audience, symbolizing the appreciation of those who helped build the municipality's identity. The moment also highlighted the town's commitment to preserving its memory, as rich as the mountains surrounding the Serra do Caraça.

The ceremony reinforced the sense of belonging and respect for local traditions, recalling that Santa Bárbara's history is made by people who devote their lives to the common good.

Concert: Ouro Minas – Echoes of Timeless Music

Right after the medal ceremony, music took over the evening. The Mother Church of Santo Antônio, one of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in the region, was the setting for the concert "Ouro Minas: Ecos de uma música atemporal" (Ouro Minas: Echoes of Timeless Music).

The concert brought together the Santa Bárbara Symphonic Choir, the Vocal Group of the Estação da Música and the UFMG Trombone Choir. The result was a performance that delighted the audience with its harmony and cultural richness.

The performance filled the hearts of those present with emotion, as they enjoyed a repertoire carefully chosen to represent the musical soul of Minas Gerais.

Among the voices and instruments, one could feel the echo of the history of the Serra do Caraça, which has inspired artists, musicians and poets for centuries. The evening became a true tribute to the art and sensitivity of a people who breathe culture.

Santa Bárbara 320 Years Run and Walk

The next morning, the town woke up with contagious energy. The Santa Bárbara 320 Years Run and Walk brought together athletes, families and sports lovers in an event full of enthusiasm and community spirit.

Promoted by the Department of Government, Sports and Public Order, the event awarded prizes to the top five finishers and provided moments of fellowship among participants. The course through the town's historic streets allowed runners to enjoy the charm of the center and the beautiful landscapes that link Santa Bárbara to the Serra do Caraça.

After the race, the audience was treated to a performance by the band Groove, which brought Brazilian rock classics to the stage and closed the morning in a celebratory mood.

The sporting activity reinforced the importance of health, well-being and community unity, values at the heart of the people of Santa Bárbara.

Luzes de Santa Bárbara and the Show by Raça Negra

When night came, the atmosphere turned into pure magic with the inauguration of the Luzes de Santa Bárbara (Santa Bárbara Christmas Lights). The historic center took on a special glow, revealing illuminated façades and an enchanting Christmas setting.

At Praça da Estação, DJ Kennin kicked off the party, warming up the crowd with vibrant music that set the mood for the grand finale.

Then the band Raça Negra took the stage and drove the thousands present wild with unforgettable hits such as Cheia de Manias, Ciúme de Você and É Tarde Demais. The show crowned the 320th anniversary celebrations with a performance worthy of the town.

The event reinforced the pride of the people of Santa Bárbara in celebrating their history, their culture and their connection with the lush nature of the Serra do Caraça, closing the festivities with emotion and gratitude.