First night of São João in Bahia livens up Pelourinho.

Bahia 247 - Fueled by popcorn, liqueur, corn cake and boiled peanuts, forró helped maintain the tradition on the first night of São João da Bahia, this Thursday (23), in the Historic Center of Salvador (CHS). Attractions such as Adelmário Coelho, in Terreiro de Jesus, and Gereba, in Largo do Pelourinho, made many families, including with children, get into the spirit of the arrasta-pé.

Due to the increased number of visitors, public security in the area has been increased. Approximately 1,2 military police officers patrol the Historic Center during the three days of the festival. At five strategic points, the public only has access after passing through selective barriers where police officers use metal detectors. Random searches are also carried out on all streets.

The commander of the 18th Military Police Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Valter Menezes, explained that the police force has been increased since the beginning of the June festivities.

"All the planning for the PM's policing in Pelourinho during this period begins with the Thirteen Days of Saint Anthony. Today, specifically, we have police officers at the entrances to Lapa, Aquidabã, and Barroquinha, because many people come by subway, bus, taxi, or in their own cars, so we have to reinforce policing in these areas as well."

The bars surrounding the stages were packed. Tables and chairs were occupied, but some preferred to stand and dance, like retired Maria de Lurdes Bastos, from Salvador. "It's a popular festival. It's our festival, typical. I think everything is very well organized, the policing is good. I have nothing to complain about," said the military man.

At Sala de Reboco – a stage set up in front of the Church of São Francisco – those who don't have a partner to dance with or want to learn forró steps receive a special lesson, to the sound of the zabumba, triangle and accordion, from 18 pm to midnight.

For forró musician Adelmário Coelho, one of the main attractions, performing at São João da Bahia, in Salvador, "is always a privilege." "Many people can't travel for one reason or another, or because they work. So, having the option of this festival here in Pelourinho, a sacred place, very special for all of us from Bahia, is a moment of excellence in harmony with this June festivities," said Adelmário.

The Superintendent of Tourism Promotion for the State of Bahia, Diogo Medrado, highlighted the boost to the economy resulting from the concerts promoted by the State Government in the capital.

"We wanted to position Salvador as a destination for São João festivities. To bring people from the interior to the capital, in addition to people from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais, who are the main clients for Bahia as a destination. Pelourinho and Paripe couldn't be left out of this program."