Every winter, the inland Algarve town of Silves hosts a free citrus festival celebrating the region's most famous crop. The official name is the Mostra Silves Capital da Laranja, or Silves Capital of the Orange Fair, though many visitors search for it as CitrusFest. The event is organized by Silves council and brings together orange growers, regional food producers, and entertainers at the FISSUL fair pavilion.
Oranges have deep roots here: over 70% of Portuguese-grown oranges come from the Algarve, and Silves has branded itself the orange capital. The fair isn't only about fresh fruit, though. Expect orange wine and liqueurs, chocolates, handicrafts, and even roasted suckling pig, all flavored with the local signature.
Because future editions are announced closer to February, exact dates and opening hours aren't always confirmed far in advance. This guide explains what typically happens, how to get there, and how to plan a visit that fits the current program.
When Does the Fair Take Place?
The fair is traditionally held in mid-February, timed to the orange harvest. Past editions ran from February 13 to 15 in 2026 and February 16 to 18 in 2024. Silves council usually publishes dates and a full program a few weeks ahead, so check official channels like the municipality website or local news before booking travel.
Opening hours in past years ran from late morning into the evening, but specific times are set per edition. The official opening ceremony often takes place around 10:30 a.m., with concerts and performances continuing into the night. Since schedules change, plan to visit during daytime and late afternoon to see most exhibitors.
Location and Venue: FISSUL
The main venue is the FISSUL exhibition pavilion, officially known as Pavilhão de Feiras e Exposições, located in Silves. It sits a short walk from the historic town center, which is famous for its red sandstone castle and medieval bridges. Parking near FISSUL is limited during the fair, so arriving early or using park-and-ride options helps.
Silves is in the central Algarve, roughly 15 kilometers inland from the coast. If you stay in Portimão, Albufeira, or Lagos, you can easily make a day trip, but giving yourself a full day lets you explore the fair and the town without rushing.
What to Expect at the Fair
The fairground is filled with exhibitor stalls, many run by local citrus producers selling their oranges, juices, marmalades, and liqueurs. Regional associations and craftspeople also showcase honey, wine, traditional sweets, and handmade goods. This is a chance to taste and buy directly from the people behind the produce.
Education and agricultural issues take center stage too. The 2026 edition featured a conference series called Conferência XXI, with talks on farming challenges and the EU–Mercosur agreement, as well as a workshop on digitalization for small businesses. If you're curious about the realities of Algarve farming, these sessions add depth to the fair, though speakers rotate each year.
Family-Friendly Fun and Entertainment
The fair is known for a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with entertainment for all ages. Past editions included live music from fado singer Raquel Tavares and Angolan artist Matias Damásio, plus traditional music and dance performances. Puppet theatre and magic shows keep younger visitors amused.
A romantic-themed street parade called the Marcha dos Namorados has appeared in some years, threading through the town as a nod to Valentine's season, though it isn't guaranteed every edition. Dedicated children's areas are often set up inside the pavilion, so parents can browse stalls while kids are entertained.
The Orange-Flavoured Weekend
Running alongside the fair is the Fim de Semana com Sabor a Laranja, or Orange-Flavoured Weekend. Local restaurants create special dishes and desserts with oranges as the star ingredient, from citrus-glazed meats to zesty pastries. The weekend typically starts the same day as the fair, so you can eat your way through Silves and support local chefs.
Getting to Silves and FISSUL
Driving is the most straightforward option, with Silves accessible via the A22 motorway and national roads from the coast. There is parking near FISSUL, but it fills quickly on fair days, so consider arriving before noon. If you rely on public transport, regional buses link Silves to towns like Portimão and Albufeira, though services can be infrequent on weekends. Taxis or rideshares from the coast are practical, especially for groups.
For visitors staying in the Algarve, a day trip is easy; combine the fair with a walk through Silves' old town and a stop at the castle for panoramic views of the surrounding orange groves.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Admission is free; the council organizes the fair as a non-commercial event. Since smaller producers often prefer cash, bring some euros for purchases and food, even though card readers are becoming more common.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as February in the Algarve is mild but can be cool in the shade. Plan to arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds and have a better pick of the fresh produce, which sells fast on weekends.
Check the official program closer to your visit, as exact dates, opening hours, and the lineup of artists and talks are confirmed only weeks in advance. Follow Silves council's website or local news outlets for updates.
Exploring Silves Beyond the Fair
Take time to see the town's medieval heart. Silves Castle, built by the Moors, is one of the best-preserved in the Algarve, and the old bridge over the Arade River offers pretty views. Stroll through narrow streets and stop for coffee at a local café to soak up the atmosphere.
If you want more of the town's culture, consider visiting during other events like the Silves Medieval Fair, which transforms the historic center every August. For a broader slate of seasonal celebrations, see our guide to festivals in Portugal.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're a foodie, a family, or a curious traveler, the Silves Capital of the Orange Fair offers a taste of Algarve tradition away from the beach crowds. With free entry and a central location, it's an easy day trip from anywhere on the south coast.
Since dates and programs change each year, always verify the latest details on the official Silves council website before you go. Combine the fair with the Orange-Flavoured Weekend and a stroll through the historic town for a memorable winter escape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is CitrusFest Silves?
CitrusFest is an informal name for the Silves Capital of the Orange Fair (Mostra Silves Capital da Laranja), a free annual citrus festival in the Algarve. It celebrates the region's orange heritage with producer stalls, orange-themed food, entertainment, and family activities, typically held each February at the FISSUL pavilion.
When is the citrus festival in Silves?
The festival usually takes place in mid-February, but exact dates are confirmed closer to the event by Silves council. Past editions have been held on dates like February 13–15 and February 16–18, so check the official program for the current year.
Where is the Silves citrus festival held?
The festival is held at the FISSUL exhibition pavilion (Pavilhão de Feiras e Exposições) in Silves, a short walk from the historic town center in the central Algarve.
What happens at the Silves orange fair?
Visitors can explore stalls offering fresh oranges, liqueurs, sweets, and regional crafts. The fair also features agricultural talks, live music, puppet shows for children, and a romantic street parade in some years, plus a separate Orange-Flavoured Weekend with special restaurant menus.
Is the orange festival in Silves free?
Yes, the event is free to attend. It is organized by Silves council and designed to support local citrus growers and boost tourism. You may still want to bring cash for food and souvenirs.
