DIA DE SÃO SEBASTIÃO

The Dia de São Sebastião is an important festival in Rio. On January 20th, processions and celebrations are held in honor of São Sebastião, the patron saint of Rio de Janeiro, corresponding to the day when the Portuguese explored the waters of Guanabara Bay. The city was named São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro (Saint Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro). Processions and pilgrimages are usually organized by the Catholic Church. São Sebastião is also the patron saint of athletes and soldiers who honor him on this day.