Festa do Vinho 2012 in Catas Altas, MG

12th Festa do Vinho

From May 18 to 20, 2012, the town of Catas Altas, at the foot of the Serra do Caraça, held the 12th edition of the Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival), one of the most iconic events in Minas Gerais. Organized by the Catas Altas town council, through its Tourism and Culture department, in partnership with Aprovart (Association of Jabuticaba Wine Producers), the celebration brought together culture, faith, food and big names in Brazilian music.

With a central theme of valuing tradition and local identity, the 2012 edition reaffirmed the town's commitment to preserving the history of jabuticaba wine, made by hand for more than a century and recognized as the town's cultural heritage.

Tradition and Cultural Identity

The Catas Altas Festa do Vinho pays tribute to the history and talent of generations of producers who turned jabuticaba into a symbol of pride and identity. The event was born of a wish to preserve artisanal winemaking and strengthen the local economy through family farming and tourism.

In 2012 the 12th edition reinforced this purpose, offering a program that blended culture, religion and entertainment without losing the Minas Gerais essence that defines the town.

The festival invites residents and visitors to celebrate together the union of past and present — a toast to the work, art and authentic flavor of Catas Altas.

Opening and First Acts

The night of Friday, May 18 marked the start of the celebrations. The program began with Mass at the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, followed by the official opening and the traditional sash ceremony for the 2012 Wine Queen and Princesses at Praça Monsenhor Mendes.

Next, the audience was enchanted by a show by Zélia Duncan, one of the great voices of MPB, who performed hits from her career. The night continued with Banda Scaréus, closing the first day in a joyful, festive mood.

A Saturday of Music, Workshops and Food

Saturday, May 19 was packed with activities for all ages. The program began in the afternoon with shows by the bands Sabotagem and Whisky Blues, as well as cultural and musical performances on the two stages set up at Praça Monsenhor Mendes.

Early in the evening, singer Tunai took the main stage, moving the audience with his striking interpretations. Then performances by Gilson e Banda, Camila Calais and the much-awaited Roupa Nova show at 11 pm made for an unforgettable night.

The mix of musical styles, from rock to pop and MPB, pleased all ages, reinforcing the eclectic and inclusive character of the Festa do Vinho.

A Sunday of Faith, Culture and Farewells

Sunday, May 20 began with the traditional Mass at the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, followed by the Poetry Circuit, which wound through the streets of the historic center, uniting art and tradition.

The program also featured the Corpo e Mente em Movimento capoeira group, the play "Sem Fonia Musical" by the Cia de Teatro Yepocá, and music by Amanda e Alex, Bob Drumond & Groove da Silva and Camila Maia.

One of the most eagerly awaited moments was the awards ceremony for the winners of the Jabuticaba Wine Contest, recognizing the quality and work of local artisans. The festival closed with a show by Lenine at 10 pm, who performed hits from his career and ended the event with infectious energy.

Culture, Flavors and Community

The 2012 Festa do Vinho was not just a music event — it was a true celebration of Catas Altas culture. Over the three days, visitors could taste artisanal wines, liqueurs and traditional dishes made with local products.

The presence of producers, artists and families reinforced the town's community spirit, turning the event into a place for socializing, learning and sharing experiences.

With each edition, Catas Altas reaffirms its calling for cultural, food and wine tourism, attracting people from different parts of the country and strengthening the pride of those who live and work in the Serra do Caraça.

Closing and Legacy of the 12th Edition

The success of the 2012 edition once again proved the role of the Festa do Vinho as one of the main events on the Minas Gerais cultural calendar.

With big names in music such as Zélia Duncan, Roupa Nova and Lenine and a program full of art and tradition, the event established itself as a symbol of the hospitality and creativity of Catas Altas.

With every glass raised, residents and visitors toasted not only the flavor of the wine but the history of a town that turns its culture into celebration — a true living heritage of Minas Gerais.