The Festival in Honor of Our Lady of Sorrows takes place in Monte Gordo always on the second Sunday of September, being one of the most anticipated moments by the local populations, the so-called "Cuicos," and by tourists who have already become accustomed to this tradition. The article describes the big day as being one of celebration, devotion and tradition, with activities that extend from morning until night.
The morning begins with the dawn rocket at 8:00am, followed by the route of the Philharmonic Band of Vila Real de Santo António through the streets of the town. At 10:30am the eucharist is celebrated and, according to tradition, the morning is dedicated to music, beach games and the famous boat race, which in olden days was contested only by fishermen but today maintains the tradition with the awarding of prizes.
At 5:00pm, after the festive family lunch, the image of Our Lady of Sorrows leaves the church in procession, being carried on a stretcher through the streets to the beach. The decorated boats honk and hoot as the Virgin passes, who is affectionately called "Santa" by the population. The procession lasts about three hours and includes the moment when men bring the stretcher close to the water, turning the image toward the sea.
The return to the church at nightfall brings the most emotional moment of the festival, with the stretcher going up and down in a unique "dance" before being placed back inside. The article describes an atmosphere of tears, applause, requests and gratitude, reflecting the deep faith and devotion of the people of Monte Gordo toward their Patron Saint, Our Lady of Sorrows.
