Portugal festival guides

The MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal turns Peniche's Supertubos beach into a world-class arena. From the sand, you can watch elite surfers from just 20 meters away. This guide covers the waiting period, the competition village, and how to pack for a day at the beach.

Viseu's Holy Week is a time of solemn processions and deep tradition, centred on the Cathedral and the historic quarter. From the blessing of palms on Palm Sunday to the night-time Procissão do Enterro do Senhor on Good Friday, visitors can take part in centuries-old devotions. This guide explains what happens, how to join respectfully, and what to check before you go.

Each year on the last Sunday of September, pilgrims gather at the windswept cliffs of Cabo Espichel for the Romaria de Nossa Senhora do Cabo, a tradition that has endured for over six centuries. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Cape, with its Baroque church and arcaded hostels, becomes the focus of a triduo, Mass, and procession. This guide covers the sanctuary's history, the festival's rituals, and practical tips for visiting this dramatic coastal site.

Each August, Viana do Castelo hosts the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d'Agonia, a week-long celebration of faith and Minho culture. Expect the dazzling Mordomia Parade, a maritime procession on the Lima River, flower-filled streets, and nightly music—plan well ahead for accommodation.

Every June, Lisbon honors its patron saint Santo António with a citywide celebration of grilled sardines, basil pots, mass weddings, and the Popular Marches parade. Here's how to join the street parties, find the best food, and experience the traditions that make this festival special.

Every June, Tavira honours three saints—Santo António (13 June), São João (24 June) and São Pedro (29 June)—with processions, bonfires, basil offerings and grilled sardines. São João's day doubles as the municipal holiday, making it the most elaborate of the three. Here's how each saint is celebrated and where to find the best of the street parties.

During Holy Week, Tavira stages three centuries-old processions through its historic centre, from the Triumph Procession on Palm Sunday to the Resurrection Procession on Easter Sunday. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how to attend respectfully.

Holy Week in Viseu centers on the cathedral’s liturgical schedule, culminating in the Procissão do Enterro do Senhor on Good Friday. Learn about the key services and how to plan your visit.

The Silves Medieval Fair transforms the historic Algarve town each August into a lively medieval scene. Wondering what to wear? This guide covers costume rentals, the importance of sturdy footwear, dressing for hot evenings, and practical tips to keep you comfortable as you explore the cobblestone streets and hills.

The Silves Medieval Fair transports you to another era, and feasting is a big part of the experience. Expect hog roasts and sides of beef hot off the fire, local sweets and produce, and drinks served in earthenware goblets. Here's your guide to navigating the food stalls, understanding the Xilb currency, and making smart choices to beat the lines.

Getting to the Silves Medieval Fair takes planning. The old town closes to traffic, parking fills fast, and late-night buses are scarce. This guide covers parking, shuttles, trains, and buses so you can focus on the medieval fun.

Discover what to expect at the Silves Medieval Fair in Portugal, including the typical evening program, jousting and shows, food stalls, and practical tips for visiting this August festival.