Yesterday was our last full day in the Azores. We're already looking forward to returning, not only to Terceira, but also to visit some of the other eight islands. I've pretty much run out of ways to describe how much we've enjoyed our three weeks here.
One thing that we didn't learn until yesterday when we walked into town was that it was a national holiday. April 25th for the Portuguese people is somewhat similar to our July 4th. It's called Freedom Day and since 1974 it has been recognized as the day that Portugal transitioned, by way of a bloodless military coup (three words that don't usually go together), from the longest running European dictatorship to a democracy.
Schools, along with many of the shops and restaurants were closed. There was also a parade down the main street of Angra. Unlike a typical parade in the US there were no elected officials, floats, or civic organizations traipsing down the street. The parade was made up of around 10 different town bands from around the island. Each band had between 30-50 members ranging in age from young teenagers to senior citizens. Every band was decked out in their finest uniforms and played proudly along the whole route. I've commented on how nice everyone is here on Terceira and they demonstrated it again during the parade. There was about a five minute gap between every band. I'm sure this was to allow each band to be "center stage" as they marched and played.
The entire event lasted about an hour. There were no politicians pontificating at the end, no carnivals, no fireworks. Everyone just packed it up and went home as quietly as they had assembled.
Gosh, we're going to miss this laid back place!
Muito obrigado Terceira!
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| Without a doubt the biggest crowd we ever saw along "main street" |
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| Young and old making music together. |
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| Happy Freedom Day from Terceira! |
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| Nice little church we noticed near the hotel |
