Festa dos Pés de Pomba 2017 in Barão de Cocais, MG
43rd Festa dos Pés de Pomba
The traditional Festa dos Pés de Pomba reached its 43rd edition in 2017, establishing itself as one of the largest cultural events in the Serra do Caraça region. Held from July 24 to 30, at the José Furtado Events Space, the festival brought together music, theater, food and a vibrant atmosphere that captivated the whole town of Barão de Cocais.
With a program full of attractions for every audience, the event featured local and national artists, strengthening the town's cultural identity and valuing regional talent. Over seven days, the public enjoyed shows, circus acts, theater performances and the now-traditional Food Festival, which brought the authentic flavors of Minas Gerais cuisine.
Culture and Tradition Celebrated in the Serra do Caraça
The Festa dos Pés de Pomba is a true symbol of the strength and creativity of the people of Barão de Cocais. Created in the 1970s, the celebration was born from the desire to turn the old nickname "pés de pomba" (literally "dove's feet") — used in a derogatory way in neighboring towns — into a source of pride and belonging.
More than four decades later, the event continues to fulfill this role masterfully, bringing families, tourists and artists together in an atmosphere of joy and appreciation of local culture.
In 2017, the success was even greater. The public turned out in force and packed the José Furtado Events Space, especially on Friday (28th), when the band U2 Cover Latin American and singer Nando Reis took the stage in a historic night, considered one of the biggest in the history of the Pés de Pomba.
The enthusiasm and emotion carried through every day, showing that the event is indeed one of the most eagerly awaited on the cultural calendar of the Serra do Caraça.
Music Program: A Week of Big Shows
The 2017 program stood out for its musical diversity, covering different styles and generations.
The week began with performances by Naty Rock (pop rock), Mr. Mojo (tribute to The Doors) and Black Bird Fly (tribute to the Beatles), who brought a touch of nostalgia and musical quality to the event.
On Thursday (27th), the public enjoyed the circus show Circo da Roça and the lively sound of Lili Band. But the peak came on Friday (28th), with an electrifying show by U2 Cover Latin American, followed by acclaimed singer Nando Reis, who got the audience singing along to hits such as "Por Onde Andei", "All Star" and "Segundo Sol".
Saturday (29th) kept up the high standard with performances by As Aventuras de Potássio Circo, the children's play Cinderela (Cinderella), the band WalkTock and singer Wilson Sideral, who brought plenty of rock and emotion to the stage.
The closing, on Sunday (30th), was a true celebration: the public enjoyed the show Cabaré Circense (Circus Cabaret), the Rock in Concert show with the Orquestra Opus, plus performances by KA2 (blues and rock), Legião V (Legião Urbana tribute band) and DJ Aycond, who closed the festival with electronic music and plenty of energy.
2017 Food Circuit: Flavors and Creativity
One of the high points of the festival was the 2017 Food Circuit, which brought together many bars and restaurants of Barão de Cocais in a delicious cooking competition.
Throughout the week, the public could try creative, tasty dishes at the José Furtado Events Space, in a new format that allowed the establishments to take part in the program every day.
This edition's participants were:
Butiquim Sant'Ana, Bar do Tatão, Casarão Bar, Em Cantos, Industrial Pub, Lanchão da Vera, Luz de Minas and Restaurante Brasileiríssimo.
The dishes were judged by a technical panel and by popular vote, based on criteria such as presentation, flavor, originality and fair price.
The 2017 winners were:
🥇 1st place: Luz de Minas, with the dish "Tomate Mágico" (Magic Tomato)
🥈 2nd place: Industrial Pub, with the dish "Barão e Baronesa" (Baron and Baroness)
🥉 3rd place: Bar Em Cantos, with the dish "Em Cantado"
The food festival reinforced the importance of cooking as an essential part of the town's cultural identity, bringing artists, shopkeepers and visitors together.
Theater, Circus and Fun for the Whole Family
Besides music and food, the 43rd Festa dos Pés de Pomba had an intense cultural program for all ages.
Theater and circus performances delighted the public, bringing magic and joy to Barão de Cocais afternoons. Plays such as "Branca de Neve" (Snow White), "Cinderela" (Cinderella) and "O Circo do Miko" entertained the children, while the circus shows Circo da Roça, As Aventuras de Potássio Circo and Cabaré Circense surprised audiences with humor and talent.
These performances reinforced the educational and artistic character of the event, keeping the festival's commitment to offering accessible, quality culture to the whole Serra do Caraça population.
Closing and Legacy of the 2017 Edition
The 2017 Festa dos Pés de Pomba was a landmark of organization, diversity and engagement. With the support of Vale and the Military Police, the event was considered one of the best organized in its recent history.
The large crowds and strong participation of artists and shopkeepers showed that Barão de Cocais remains firm in its purpose of celebrating its roots and valuing its people.
Amid flavors, sounds and applause, the 2017 edition further established the Pés de Pomba as one of the largest cultural events in the Serra do Caraça — a festival that represents the pride, strength and joy of a people who turned a nickname into a symbol of identity and tradition.
