Cavalhada of Brumal and Festa de Santo Amaro 2025 in Santa Bárbara, MG

86th Cavalhada of Brumal and Festa de Santo Amaro

The traditional Cavalhada of Brumal and Festa de Santo Amaro (an equestrian pageant reenacting the battle between Moors and Christians, held during the Feast of Saint Maurus) is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the Serra do Caraça. The celebration combines religion, culture and folk art in a program that spans generations and moves residents and visitors. Held in the charming district of Brumal, part of Santa Bárbara – MG, the festival represents the meeting of faith and the cultural expressions that shape local identity.

In 2025, the 86th edition once again brought to the region the spirit of unity and devotion that has kept the tradition alive for decades. Besides the symbolic Cavalhada performance, the festival featured Masses, processions, shows and activities that energized the whole community. Over the festival days, the district became a true meeting point for those wanting to experience cultural and religious tourism in the Serra do Caraça.

The event had the support of the Santa Bárbara City Hall, the Brumal Community Association and the Nossa Senhora das Graças Curacy, reinforcing the collective commitment to valuing the town's history and intangible heritage.

Tradition, Culture and Music in the Serra do Caraça

The cultural celebrations of the 86th Cavalhada of Brumal began with plenty of energy. On Friday (4th), the public gathered at the Largo de Brumal for a show by the duo Washington & Waldomiro, who brought the best of sertanejo music. Saturday (5th) featured big performances: Denner Ferreira opened the night with infectious energy, followed by singer Yasmin Santos, who delighted the audience with her charisma and well-known hits.

Sunday (6th) began with the Alvorada (dawn salute), one of the most symbolic moments of the festival, when the community gathers to the sound of local bands and fireworks announcing the big day. In the afternoon came the high point: the traditional Cavalhada, which tells, through horsemanship, the story of the battle between Moors and Christians — a historic representation of faith, bravery and tradition. The spectacle attracted visitors from all over the Serra do Caraça region, reinforcing Brumal's role as the guardian of this cultural heritage.

Closing the program, local singer Jordiana Batista took the stage and thrilled the audience with her performance, ending the event with emotion and local pride.

Faith and Devotion That Unite Generations

The Festa de Santo Amaro is also a deep expression of the religious life of the people of Brumal. The religious program began on June 28, with a motorcade and opening Mass. The next day, the celebrations continued with rosaries and moments of prayer involving the whole community. On July 4 and 5, the Nossa Senhora das Graças Curacy led adorations, Masses and processions that moved residents and visitors.

Sunday (6th) was the peak of faith. The Mass welcoming the pilgrims filled the church, bringing together devotees from many parts of the Serra do Caraça region. In the afternoon, the traditional procession went through the streets of Brumal and ended at the sports court of the Cecília Alvares Duarte School, where a final celebration marked the end of another unforgettable edition.

This blend of faith and culture is what makes the Cavalhada of Brumal a unique intangible heritage. It preserves the roots of the people of Santa Bárbara and strengthens the bond between the communities of the Serra do Caraça, who find in the festival a reflection of their own history and identity.

Living Heritage of Santa Bárbara

Recognized as the first intangible heritage of Santa Bárbara, the Cavalhada of Brumal is more than a festival: it is a living representation of the soul of the people of Santa Bárbara. Over the decades, it has become one of the most authentic events in Minas Gerais, attracting tourists and researchers interested in preserving folk culture.

In 2025, the festival reaffirmed its essential role in valuing history and strengthening cultural tourism in the Serra do Caraça. The combination of religion, artistic expression and community celebrations made Brumal a true symbol of Minas Gerais tradition.

The Santa Bárbara City Hall thanked everyone involved for their dedication and participation. Thanks to this unity, the Cavalhada and the Festa de Santo Amaro continue to inspire new generations, keeping alive the flame of faith, culture and love for the land.