the traditional San Jao Festivities which were held annually in siolim witnessed a good turnout this year as in the last two years the celebrations remaind low key in of the COVID-19 pandemic. The traditional boat parade the river in front of St. Anthony’s Church was held this year as well the Sao Joao festival in Siolim has gained wide popularity and people from all over the State converge at the spot near the St Anthony s Church in Siolim. There is a grand traditional boat parade organised in the vicinity of Siolim Church where people come dressed in uniform and parade on a decorated float. Besides wearing colourful clothes, locals wear the traditional kopel or crown on their head. The headgear is tastefully stitched together with leaves, flowers and fresh fruits. Apart from the boat parade, contests and sing-song sessions keep the festivity alive throughout late evening. Present for the the Sao joao festivities were ,MLA Delilah lobo Sarpanch of Siolim-Marna Panchayat Sharmila Vernekar the president of Siolim Jao Joao Traditional and Boat Festival and Cultural organization sylvester fernandes, parish Priest of Saint anthonys church siolim Fr Socorro Mendes and all the panch members also present were for the festivities were leader of opposition Michael lobo Calangute MLA and leader of opposition Michael Lobo greeted all the people on the festival of Sao Joao