Bonfim Ribbons

Bahia Bands have been around for a very long time. Fitas, or Bonfim Ribbons as they were originally called were silk and the writings on them were done by hand with ink or silver. They were worn on the neck as a necklace, upon which were hung medallions and holy images.  

Today, ribbons are still worn but the tradition of tying the Bahia Bands on the church gates and wearing them for luck has lived on!  People all over the world celebrate the Bahia Band tradition! Ribbons are mostly worn around the wrist or ankle, but they are more than just an accessory...

The Wish Bracelet Tradition

Worn by generations and generations, Bahia ribbons are a symbol of faith and good luck!  The Bahia Bands are more than just a fashion accessory, they are a good luck charm. The writing on the ribbon says ”Lembrança do Senhor do Bonfim da Bahia”, or in remembrance of the savior of Bahia, or Souvenir from the God of Bahia. Each color represents something different. 

Color Meanings

Yellow – success and intelligence

Dark green – money and growth

Light blue  – love and peace

Dark blue  – health, comfort and fertility

Hot pink  – friendship

Red – strength and passion

White  – wisdom and inner peace

Purple – spirituality

Orange  – courage and energy

How to Adhere to the Tradition

Wrap the wish ribbon around the wrist, and make 3 knots, making a wish for each of the 3 knots tied. Once the Brazilian Wish Bracelet falls off on its own, it is believed that the 3 wishes will come true.

The Church of Senhor do Bonfim

Nosso Senhor do Bonfim, Salvador da Bahia’s most important house of worship, has a reputation of granting miracles.

Built in the 18th century, Senhor do Bonfim became a place of convergence for the African and Catholic faiths, an inevitable intersection and intertwining of religious beliefs based on the cultural mix of the state of Bahia

Senhor do Bonfim became guardian of the city, provider of miracles and granter of wishes. The African deity Oxala and Jesus became one, and Salvadorans annually celebrate this supreme protector in the Feast of Bonfim.