Bahia Public Ministry reports over R$615 million spent on Junine festival attractions

The Bahia Public Ministry’s Transparency Panel recorded more than R$615 million allocated for artistic attractions in the 2026 Junine (São João) festivities across 410 municipalities and the state government. The data cover 4,393 performances by 2,115 attractions, with 382 municipalities confirming contracts and seven municipalities still missing information.

The Ministry also questioned over R$3 million in contracts for the 35th Vaquejada in Serra do Ramalho, flagging high fees such as a R$784 k payment to the duo Maiara & Maraisa and seeking a court order to suspend the payments until justification is provided. Similar scrutiny led São Desidério to renegotiate several contracts, lowering fees to align with inflation (IPCA) and leaving only the contract of singer Yasmin Sensação under discussion.

In parallel, the Casa da Igualdade Racial in Salvador launched a cultural program for the Junine period, featuring the inaugural “Copa sem Racismo,” Afro‑business fairs, and musical performances, aiming to combine celebration with anti‑racism education and community engagement.