This video we have made shows an important part of our local identity and continuity, but it also reflects the influences and traditions around Europe. The annual Festivities called NICOLINAS are our heritage, and by OUR we mean Portuguese and European, as these events and activities are centred around interconnected past religious characters and histories, and their celebration becomes a dynamic exploration of shared stories that link the past generations to the present ones. 

The cult of Saint Nicholas spread throughout the North and West of Europe and reached Portugal, where it was particularly celebrated in the central and northern regions. In Guimarães, his veneration gained special prominence. Most importantly, and of particular interest to us, Saint Nicholas is the glorious patron of students, honoured for resurrecting three students who had been dismembered by an innkeeper and for his wisdom in defending the faith.

The São Nicolau Festivities, scholastic celebrations in Guimarães dating back at least to the 17th century, have their roots in the veneration of this patron saint of students.

Among the oldest academic traditions in Portugal, these festivities boast unique features, particularly the involvement of the "Old" with the "New," which allows generations of Nicolinos to gather in Guimarães each year between 29th November 29th and 6th December.

The Nicolinas Festivities, characterized by the popular customs of the region, the influence of Classicism and Romanticism, and critical engagement with social phenomena, are occasions for celebration and entertainment. These include youthful merriment, almost always accompanied by a distinctive backdrop of sound: the booming of drums playing the characteristic Nicolino rhythms.

We tried our best to explain the different events in an understandable yet entertaining way as part of our heritage. We think we should be chosen because we want to show that Guimarães is the not only the birthplace of our country, Portugal, but also the birthplace of unique cultural events that reflect the shape of our European world. 

We are so thankful for this opportunity that helped us to understand and promote these special festivities that belong to the European heritage.