Canoinhas cancels 2026 Fesmate due to El Niño weather risks

The municipality of Canoinhas, Brazil, announced the cancellation of the 25th edition of the Festa Estadual da Erva‑Mate (Fesmate) that was planned for September 2026. Mayor Zenilda Lemos said the decision was based on meteorological forecasts indicating that the peak of the El Niño phenomenon could occur in September, raising the risk of extreme weather and endangering public safety.

The city will consider holding a special program to mark Canoinhas’ municipal anniversary on 12 September, but any event will depend on updated weather predictions and alerts from the local civil defence authority. The cancellation aims to protect residents while the festival’s traditional “royal” representatives remain ready to participate when conditions improve.