June in Mindelo: Music Awards, Worldcup & Festivals
🎤 Cabo Verde Music Awards (CVMA) – June 6, 2026
June starts strong with one of the biggest music events in the country: the Cabo Verde Music Awards, held in Mindelo.
What makes this event special:
- performances by top Cape Verdean artists
- a large international audience
- a festive gala night
But here’s what many travelers don’t realize: The entire week around CVMA is full of events
- live music in bars
- DJ nights and afterparties
- cultural gatherings across the city
This makes early June one of the most vibrant times to be in Mindelo. 
⚽World Cup 2026 (June 15,21,28): support Cape Verde in a historic moment
June 2026 is extra special in Mindelo, as Cape Verde is participating in the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever 🇨🇻 During the group stage, Cape Verde will play:
- June 15, 2026 – Spain vs Cape Verde
- June 21, 2026 – Uruguay vs Cape Verde
- June 26, 2026 – Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia
On São Vicente, these match days will bring an incredible atmosphere: bars and restaurants filled with fans big screens and shared viewing moments music, celebrations, and national pride Even if you’re not a football fan, this is a unique opportunity to experience the island in a truly special way.
👉 Tip: Ask locally or follow our updates to find the best places in Mindelo to watch the matches together.
🔥 São João Festival (June 23–24, 2026) the highlight of the month
At the end of June, everything builds up to São João, one of the most authentic festivals in Cape Verde 🇨🇻 What you’ll experience:
- Kolá San Jon drumming and dance
- colorful parades
- street food and local drinks
- music that continues all night
🔥 The main celebration takes place during the night of June 23 into June 24. 
📍 Where to celebrate São João: São Vicente vs Santo Antão
The most traditional celebrations happen on Santo Antão Here, the festival is deeply rooted in local culture:
- entire communities participate
- celebrations last day and night
- a truly authentic experience
On São Vicente, you can also enjoy:
- celebrations in Ribeira de Julião
- music and dance across Mindelo
- a lively, more accessible version of the festival
🚤 Important travel tip for June
São João is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. If you plan to visit Santo Antão:
– Book your ferry tickets in advance (Mindelo ↔ Santo Antão)
– Arrange your accommodation early Last-minute options are very limited.
💡 Best option: Stay in Mindelo and plan a day trip or short visit to Santo Antão.
Book your stay at Boa Mindelo Apartments
