Picture from CA from São Miguel Island

Swimmers of all ages again fulfilled the tradition of taking the first swim of the year in the Capelas natural pool.
With the sky full of gray clouds and a little rain in the mix, the dozens of bathers, after taking their family photo, went down the slope in an atmosphere of joy and conviviality to take their first bath of the New Year before the eyes of many family members and friends, nicely warmed up, waiting for them in a sheltered area.
Once they were fresh and dry, it was time to enjoy some tasty soups, the ever-charming cookies, and traditional liqueurs that delight kids and adults alike and warm the soul and the heart.
Many of the bathers from different parts of the island of São Miguel, the Azores, and even abroad told our reporter that the water was good and a spectacular get-together, which is why they want to return next year.
For her part, the president of the Capelas parish council, Ana Beatriz Arruda, said that “once again, the tradition has been fulfilled, which we always try to improve every year. She said that “the weather isn’t very good, but the sea is great” and said goodbye, wishing everyone a Happy New Year with lots of health and peace.

Picture from Roberto Lino–Pico island


João Patrício in Correio dos Açores–Natalino Viveiros, director

Novidades editor’s note: this tradition happens all over the archipelago as Azoreans take the traditional New Year’s plunge into the waters of the North Atlantic. From various news reports, swimmers said the sea seemed warmer than in prior years.

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance)  at California State University, Fresno–PBBI thanks the sponsorship of the Luso-American Development Foundation from Lisbon, Portugal (FLAD).

Picture from Roberto Lino–Pico Island