Festa dos Pés de Pomba 2018 in Barão de Cocais, MG

44th Festa dos Pés de Pomba

The Festa dos Pés de Pomba is one of the most traditional celebrations of Barão de Cocais and a true symbol of the cultural identity of the Serra do Caraça region. In 2018, the event reached its 44th edition, celebrating the art, food and music that are part of life in Barão de Cocais.
Held from July 26 to 29, the festival brought thousands of people to the José Furtado Events Space, establishing itself as one of the main moments of leisure, integration and local pride.
Organized by the City Hall, through the Department of Culture and Tourism, the 2018 edition stood out for its variety of attractions and the presence of nationally known artists.

More than a simple festivity, the Pés de Pomba is a symbol of resilience and belonging. The event was born in the 1970s to turn an old nickname — "pés de pomba", literally "dove's feet" — into a source of pride, and today it represents the strength and joy of the people of the Serra do Caraça.

Culture, History and Barão de Cocais Identity

With each edition, the Festa dos Pés de Pomba reaffirms the town's commitment to its traditions. In 2018, the event kept this essence alive, bringing together different cultural expressions and attracting visitors from across the region.
For four days, the José Furtado Events Space hosted theater performances, shows in different musical styles and the eagerly awaited Food Festival, which brought the authentic flavors of Minas Gerais cuisine to the table.

The public enjoyed an atmosphere of fellowship and joy, where every attraction reinforced the pride of being from Barão de Cocais and the importance of culture as a source of social unity. The event had free admission, well-organized facilities and the support of the Military Police, ensuring safety and comfort for visitors.

Music and Theater Program

The program of the 44th Festa dos Pés de Pomba was one of the most complete of the decade, mixing local artists and big names in Brazilian music.
The opening took place on Thursday (July 26) with the play "Até que o Face nos Separe" (Till Facebook Do Us Part), followed by a show by the duo Denner & Kauã, who entertained the crowd with sertanejo hits.

On Friday (July 27), the stage welcomed Banda DR4 at 8 p.m., warming up the crowd for the most eagerly awaited show of the night: the band Detonautas, who rocked the crowd with Brazilian rock hits. DJ Aycond closed the night, keeping the energy going until late.

Saturday (July 28) kept up the pace with the duo Ludy & Miller, the international show U2 Cover – Latin America and DJ Orbys, who closed the night with a vibrant set.
Sunday (July 29) was a mix of colors and sounds, with the Stage of Colors event, held next to the Helda Gerdau bridge. The program continued with the children's play "O Chapeleiro Maluco" (The Mad Hatter), the announcement of the Food Festival winners and shows by Mistura Envolvente, Bartucada and DJs Maycon Oliveira and Vitor Augusto, who closed the festival with plenty of rhythm and joy.

2018 Food Festival: Flavors of the Serra do Caraça

The Food Festival was one of the big highlights of the 2018 edition, bringing local bars and restaurants together in a true celebration of Minas Gerais cuisine.
The event showcased the creativity and talent of local chefs, who presented dishes inspired by regional tradition. Participants included:

• Industrial Steak House – Banana Spirit

• Sushi Matsu – Isca de Penca

• DuCheff's Hamburgueria – Receita Imperial Burger

• Em Cantos – Comida de Roça (country food)

• Planeta Ice Sorveteria – Iscassô do Entre Serras

• Lanchão da Vera – Polenta Mineira

• Tatão Bar – Um Brinde a Mamãe (A Toast to Mom)

• Requinte Buffet & Decoração – Costelinha de Porco Picante da Dondoca (spicy pork ribs)

The dishes were judged by a technical panel and by the public, who tasted unique flavors of the Serra do Caraça in an experience combining culinary tradition and innovation.
The initiative not only celebrated local cuisine but also encouraged commerce and tourism, strengthening the regional economy.

A Complete Celebration in the Serra do Caraça

The 2018 Festa dos Pés de Pomba stood out for its cultural diversity and massive public participation. With free admission, reinforced security and the support of local companies — such as MR Mineração, Sicoob, BDC Telecom and Hotel Senhor do Barão —, the event reaffirmed its role as the main meeting point of Barão de Cocais culture.

During the four days, Barão de Cocais breathed art, music and food, reaffirming pride in its origins and the importance of preserving traditions that strengthen the sense of community.
Amid applause and smiles, the public showed that the Serra do Caraça is much more than a tourist destination: it is a territory of living culture, where each edition of the Pés de Pomba becomes part of history.