Pacajus is locally nicknamed Terra do Caju and is known for its extensive cashew groves. This identity is reflected in traditional recipes, tastings, and cultural events. At the same time, places and communities tell the story of the region. This gives you several different ways to plan a trip to Pacajus: from Igreja Velha and Quilombola culture to cashew products and festivals.

Igreja Velha: a chapel with a history

Igreja Velha is a chapel built in 1865 by the Indigenous Paiacu people and still standing in Pacajus today. Renovations have altered its appearance: not all of its original wattle-and-daub and Carnaúba features have been preserved. The chapel thus reflects both its construction history and later changes. Those interested in the cultural heritage of Pacajus will find a tangible connection to the town’s history here.

The address listed for Igreja Velha is R. Monte Mor, Centro, and its opening hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 17:00. Check the hours before your visit, as opening information may change.

Quilombola culture and June festival traditions

Quadrilha Quilombola Afrojunina has been active since 2008 in the Comunidade Quilombola da Base in Pacajus. It brings the community’s historical and identity-related characteristics into view. The project also helps preserve Afro-Brazilian cultural expressions and practices, especially those rooted in Africa. Afrojunina therefore offers a distinct way to explore Pacajus’s cultural identity, alongside the historical connections of Igreja Velha.

The June festival season is also part of the local cultural calendar. The Pacajus Cidade Junina event described for 2026 supports June festival groups, cultural groups, and performances during this period. A published XI call for entries for the festival aims in particular to strengthen the community’s June festival traditions. Program details may vary by edition, so check the dates if your trip depends on them.

Cashew cuisine, markets, and local products

Traditional recipes from Pacajus include artisanal Cajuína and homemade cashew sweets. The Caju Expo Fest invites visitors to taste cashew products every October. A culinary workshop at Caju Fest used Cajuína, cashew fruit, and cashew flour in its dishes. These examples show how the local cashew identity is reflected both in traditional recipes and in an event program.

Handicrafts from Pacajus are sold on Sundays at the open-air markets at Praça Renato Pessoa de Aguiar. Market hours may change, so check the date before your visit. The market offers a different focus from cashew products: local handicrafts take center stage here.

Choose events based on your travel dates

If you are planning your trip around a particular festival, the calendar matters. The Caju Expo Fest takes place every October; check the specific dates before traveling. The Corrida Ciclística do Trabalhador is traditionally held on May 1 as part of Pacajus Terra de Campeões. Here, too, it is a good idea to check the dates and participation information in advance.

Caju Fest brought together agriculture, sports, gastronomy, and culture. Its local cultural program also included a festival of Repentistas. The VIII Ciclo Pascal in Pacajus supports traditional cultural expressions of Semana Santa. The program published for 2026 lists a performance of Paixão de Cristo; the Pão de Coco tradition is also part of the event. These examples differ in occasion and focus. Check the specific event dates for the travel period that interests you.

Location and finding accommodation

For orientation: BR-116 runs near Pacajus and connects the town to Brazil’s national road network. When looking for a vacation rental in Pacajus, you can first decide whether history, Quilombola culture, cashew cuisine, or a particular event program will shape your trip. If Igreja Velha or a market visit is important to your plans, take the listed opening hours or market day into account. For trips centered on events, check the relevant dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Caucaia, Graça, Barroquinha, Fortaleza, Jaguaribe, Barroquinha, Itarema and Mauriti.

For the broader travel overview: Ceará.