Our Story
The Halleluya Festival is one of the largest Catholic music and evangelization festivals in the world, organized by the Shalom Catholic Community. The festival combines Christian music concerts, moments of prayer and Eucharistic adoration, evangelization talks, and cultural activities. It is especially known for attracting young adults and creating a joyful environment where faith and culture meet.
The festival began in 1995 in Fortaleza, Ceará, as part of the Shalom Community’s mission of evangelization. The goal was to create a Catholic cultural event that could reach young people through contemporary music and provide a positive alternative to secular entertainment spaces. Over time, the festival grew from a local event into the largest Catholic festival in Latin America. Today, it is usually held during the summer season in Brazil and can attract hundreds of thousands of participants each year.
Halleluya All Around the World
The Halleluya Festival has expanded beyond its original location and is now held in several cities across Brazil and around the world. The event has also been held during past World Youth Days in Krakow, Panama City, and Lisbon. Its impact is particularly strong in youth evangelization, following the vision of evangelizing contemporary culture emphasized by Pope John Paul II, who encouraged the Church to engage young people through culture and faith.
Arts and faith
Music plays a central role in the festival’s spirituality. Many Catholic artists perform during the event, helping promote what the Shalom Community describes as building a culture of peace and hope through art and faith. The festival reflects the Catholic belief that beauty, art, and joy can help lead people closer to God.