Festa do Vinho 2014 in Catas Altas, MG

14th Festa do Vinho

From May 16 to 18, 2014, Catas Altas enthusiastically celebrated the 14th Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival), one of the town's most traditional events and a symbol of local culture. With each edition, the event reaffirms the town's commitment to preserving its roots, reviving a tradition dating back to the 19th century, when making jabuticaba wine became an economic alternative after the gold mines were exhausted.

Organized by the Catas Altas town council in partnership with Aprovart (Association of Wine Producers, Family Farmers and Other Artisanal Products), the festival brought residents and visitors together for three days of music, food, culture and emotion, establishing Catas Altas as a destination that proudly celebrates its origins.

Opening and a Celebration of Catas Altas Culture

The opening night on May 16 was marked by joy and the infectious energy of the crowd at Praça Monsenhor Mendes, in the historic center. A performance by Ruy Marchi e Banda kicked off the celebrations, setting the perfect mood for a festival that blends tradition and modernity.

During the ceremony, representatives of the town administration and the Culture and Tourism department welcomed the public, reinforcing the role of the Festa do Vinho as a symbol of identity and community unity.

The parade and presentation of the Wine Princesses delighted the audience, celebrating the talent and beauty of the town's young women. The highlight of the night was a show by Frejat, who drew a big crowd with Brazilian rock hits, closing the first day in style.

Workshops, Music and Fun on Day Two

Saturday, May 17, began with activities for children. The Toy Workshop, held in the morning, offered fun and learning for kids, reinforcing the family character of the event.

During the day, the Cultural Center hosted the Wine and Liqueur Production Exhibition, dedicated to jabuticaba wine and other artisanal fermented drinks made in Catas Altas. Visitors could learn more about the history of the drink and its role in the local economy.

The music program was varied and pleased all tastes. Singer Emmerson Nogueira moved the audience with striking interpretations, while the U2 Cover band closed the night with a vibrant show, keeping the festive atmosphere that is the trademark of the Festa do Vinho.

A Sunday of Tradition, Faith and Awards

Sunday, May 18, began with the traditional Mass at the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, one of the most beautiful monuments in the historic center. Built in the 18th century, the church houses a valuable Crucified Christ attributed to the master Aleijadinho, making the religious moment even more symbolic.

During the day, the public enjoyed performances by regional artists and a concert by the Orquestra Musiart, now an eagerly awaited fixture at every edition.

The evening was devoted to the awards of the Food and Wine contests, recognizing the talent of local producers and entrepreneurs. La Viola restaurant won the food contest, followed by Confraria Cultura Bar and Vitória restaurant.

In the wine contest, the winners were Vanda Lúcia Gomes (1st place), Jesuína Pereira de Souza (2nd) and Rosiléia Borges Batista (3rd), who received warm, heartfelt applause. To end the night in style, Biquini Cavadão took the stage and closed the festival with a show full of energy and nostalgia.

Culture, History and Recognition

The 14th Festa do Vinho reaffirmed Catas Altas's commitment to celebrating its cultural and historical heritage. With each edition, the event goes beyond entertainment, serving as a platform for family farming, tourism and local crafts.

Jabuticaba wine, made by hand for generations, remains the greatest symbol of this identity. Its flavor and history represent the strength and creativity of a people who turned working the land into art and culture.

The success of the 2014 edition showed once again that the Festa do Vinho is a celebration of life, memory and the unity of the Catas Altas community, establishing itself as one of the most important events on the Minas Gerais cultural calendar.