BrasArte’s Brazilian Day Festival is the crown jewel among numerous annually hosted events. It pays homage to two major celebrations in Brazil – Brazil’s Independence Day and a traditional Lavagem – a spiritual cleansing ceremony dating back to the time in Salvador Bahia when Africans brought to Brazil as slaves were not allowed to attend the Mass, but instead had to wash the steps of the church. The festivities unfold in Berkeley with a procession of devotees dressed in white accompanied by drumming and culminating in a blessing for world peace given by children from the local community. There follows a street party with live music, dance performances, and capoeira. There will be art and craft vendors, international foods to enjoy, a children's village, a beer garden and a caipirinha bar. The festival attracts Brazilians from all over the Bay Area and beyond as well as a diverse crowd who come out to enjoy this unique cultural event

This year's festival will be held in honor of "As grandes mulheres da cultura popular Brasileira" Great women of popular Brazilian Culture.