"Thousands of people took part in the ‘Lavagem do Bonfim’, one of Brazil’s most emblematic religious and cultural festivities, blending Catholic devotion with Afro-Brazilian traditions rooted in Candomble in the coastal city of Salvador de Bahia. Footage filmed on Thursday shows attendees walking as part of an 8 km procession until reaching the Church of Our Lord of Bonfim, in the neighbourhood of the same name on the Sacred Hill, while wearing white shirts and dancing to the rhythm of drums. In addition to the pilgrimage, during the festival, women dressed in white wash the steps of the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim with scented water and flowers. Many take part to fulfil promises, and others express their gratitude during the celebration. "This is where the New Year really begins, because people walk 8 km, leaving all the bad things behind, right? And asking for peace, asking for health, prosperity for our people," said participant Larissa Feitosa. "For me, the best party here in Bahia is the best gathering of people, it is being able to celebrate," said another attendee. With a history spanning more than two centuries, the festival draws thousands of worshippers, supporters, and tourists, and has become a vibrant public celebration of faith in Bahia."