JUNE FESTIVITIES: AN ELEMENT FOR THE FORMATION OF PIAUÍ'S CULTURAL IDENTITY

Abstract

The June festivities are folkloric events that begin with the commemoration of Saint Anthony on June 13, continue with Saint John on the 24th and end with Saint Peter on June 29. Although they are celebrated in various parts of the world, in Brazil, especially in the Northeast, they have a particular prominence. A special highlight of these festivities is the performance of Bumba-meu-boi, an allegorical dance in which the ox is the central character. All these manifestations are connected by a special bond: their character as a fertility rite. During the month of June, cities in Piauí are transformed with squares decorated with colorful flags, balloons and bonfires, recalling the yards of the old farms in these festive moments.