Types of Festivals

Seafood Festivals

Given Portugal’s extensive coastline, seafood festivals are a big hit. From the Festival do Marisco in Algarve to the Lisbon Fish & Flavours event, these festivals are a seafood lover’s dream.

Wine & Cheese Festivals

Regions like Douro and Alentejo, renowned for their wines, host festivals that often pair local vintages with an array of Portuguese cheeses.

Sausage & Smoked Meats Fairs

Head to Trás-os-Montes or the Alentejo for hearty festivals focused on sausages, hams, and other smoked meats. The Vinhais Smoked Meats Fair is a prime example.

Olive Oil Festivals

Celebrate the “liquid gold” of Portuguese cuisine at festivals dedicated to olive oil, commonly held in olive-growing regions like Moura and Abrantes.

Fruit & Veggie Festivals

From the Strawberry Festival in Torres Vedras to the Chestnut Festival in Marvão, these festivals celebrate the harvest and feature local dishes created from the produce.

Traditional Gastronomy Festivals

These events celebrate Portugal’s culinary history, featuring dishes that have been passed down for generations. The Festa da Comida de Lavrador in Beira Baixa is one such gem.

Pastry & Sweet Fairs

Portugal loves its pastries, and this love is evident in festivals like the Óbidos Chocolate Festival or the Festival of Traditional Sweets in Figueira da Foz.

Bread Festivals

Bread is sacred in Portugal. The Alentejo region is especially known for festivals that celebrate the simplicity and versatility of bread.

Craft Beer Festivals

Though wine is traditional, craft beer is on the rise in Portugal. Festivals like the Lisbon Beer Week or Porto Beer Fest bring together local and international brewers.

Food & Music Festivals

Many festivals combine live music with food stalls, giving you a complete sensory experience. The Super Bock Super Rock near Lisbon is a perfect example.