As with all the other islands there are small festivals throughout the summer in Graciosa but two are of especial interest for the visitor. When the Espírito Santo or Holy Ghost celebration takes place one can enjoy participating in the island’s hospitality, taking the special bread and local wine. This occurs widely over the island, but especially in Santa Cruz, Luz, Guadalupe and São Mateus. The Festival of Santo Cristo is celebrated with boat races, touradas or bullfights, plus cultural and musical happenings. Santa Cruz really decorates itself for the celebration, and becomes wonderfully busy with visitors from the other islands as well as North American emigrants.
Espírito Santo – seventh Sunday after Easter
Festival of Santo Cristo – early August
