Where and When to Find the Best Village Festivals in the Algarve, Portugal
For all the appeal of cities like Lisbon and Porto, the greatest experiences that Portugal can provide are often found away from its urban areas. However, that doesn’t mean to say a trip to somewhere like the Algarve will be quiet, especially if there is a festival going on.
Throughout the year, these celebrations and commemorations offer up a unique insight into what makes Portugal tick. From learning about traditional customs to interacting with the passionate locals, village festivals in the Algarve are great if you want to witness the ultimate in authenticity.
So, where and when can the best parties and parades be found?
Carnival, Everywhere
Image by Dvorahuk, Creative Commons license
The biggest festival on Portugal’s calendar, Carnival takes places across the country in February. Expect Rio-style processions featuring mesmerising floats and costumes accompanied by the intoxicating rhythms of Portuguese music.
Triumphal Procession on Palm Sunday, Tavira
Started in the 18th century by the Carmelite Order of the City of Tavira, this procession features decorations of gold-leaf woodwork and images depicting the life of Christ.
Cultural Week, Alte
This week-long festival in April pays homage to different cultural aspects of society such as theatre, music, food, and even children’s entertainment. The grand finale consists of a folklore festival and a traditional wedding at Fonte Grande.
International Bikers Rally, Faro
Not exactly steeped in local traditional, but this is said to be the largest biker meet outside of the USA. Over the course of four days in July, Faro hosts a series of rock music concerts and motorbike parades around the city streets.
International Sand Sculpture Festival, Péra
From May to October, gigantic sand sculptures, which are bound to astound and astonish, will be on show in Péra. Consider visiting at night when the moon and colourful spotlights combine to make this sight even more alluring.
Popular Saints Festival, Everywhere
Across the Algarve in June, parties will be in full swing until the early hours to celebrate St Anthony, St John, and St Peter. The long warm nights are perfect for music and dancing, which only stop sporadically so party-goers can eat some fresh sardines grilled on the barbecue.
FATACIL, Lagoa
Although this is the Algarve’s major fair of tourism, agriculture, business and industry, it is still well worth attending if you’re visiting the region in August. This is because alongside entertainment such as horse shows, you can also purchase traditional handicrafts and sample Portugal’s customary cuisine.
Loulé Mountain Fair, Loulé
The purpose of this festival is to educate more people about the Serra do Caldeirão’s parishes. Learn about this mountainous region’s diversity, culture, traditions, handicrafts, gastronomy, and ethnography in December each year.
So, if you would like to gain a greater understanding of Portugal while also having a good time, head to one of its various village festivals, particularly in the Algarve.