The free community event attracted families and visitors of all ages, who enjoyed an authentic Goan experience featuring delicious Goan food stalls, refreshing drinks, lively cultural music and traditional dances.
The celebrations were further enriched by performances from talented Tiatrists, showcasing the unique theatrical and musical traditions that are an integral part of Goan culture.
Those who performed at the event included the dance groups ‘Kopel Queens’, ‘Dance with Darilyn’ and ‘Sizzling Stars Swindon’, the band ‘MVP26’, Tiatrists Agnelo Lobo, Genaia Fernandes, Gabline Dcosta, Elsie Falcao, Chris Fernandes, Anthony, Joaquim Monterio and Saby de Vasco, DJ Frankie, DJ TLA, DJ Alan, DJ Dommix and Edu the drummer. The Emcees were Gavin and Sinikka.
The event was honoured by the presence of Heidi Alexander MP, the UK Secretary of State for Transport, and Will Stone MP, Member of Parliament for Swindon North.
In her address at the event, Alexander thanked the organisers for inviting her to the São João festival.
“I think this is the second year that I have been invited, and it is one of the best festivals of the year. Going around all your food stalls, I’m enjoying the Sanna, the chicken roll and your food,” said Alexander.
“The culture of the Goan community that it brings to the heart of Swindon is very, very special, and I am honoured to be with people like Joseph. Daniel and Anna are such good friends of mine, and I'm so grateful for everything you do for Swindon.”
Stone, a Swindon-born MP and former Army rifleman who has been a strong advocate for local community development and investment in the town, experienced the traditional Goan drink Urak for the very first time and thoroughly enjoyed its unique flavour.
Both MPs praised the warmth of the Goan community, the richness of Goan culture and the cuisine and acknowledged the hard work and positive contribution of Goans to British society.
The event was organised entirely by V2Gether Swindon, a dedicated team of passionate Goans, including many enthusiastic young adults committed to preserving and promoting Goan culture for future generations.
The V2Gether Swindon team at the São João Bash 2026 – Family Jamboree.
V2Gether Swindon lead coordinator Joseph Pereira said, "São João Bash is more than just a celebration. It is an opportunity to bring people together, showcase our outstanding Goan culture, and encourage our young adults to participate actively in keeping our traditions alive.”
“We are proud to be Goans, blessed with incredible talent, and events like these allow us to share our heritage with the wider community while strengthening unity among ourselves.”
He said the response from attendees reflected the event's success in fostering community spirit, cultural appreciation, and inclusivity.
V2Gether Swindon extended its sincere gratitude to all volunteers, performers, stallholders, sponsors, supporters, and everyone who attended and contributed to making São João Bash 2026 – Family Jamboree an unforgettable celebration.
The core team members of V2Gether Swindon comprise Darryl Gomes, Collin Fernandes, Wilber Rebelo, Chris Pereira, Merlyn Crasto, Sydney Crasto, Clavin Fernandes, Leslie Castelino and an energetic team of youth volunteers.
