Annual festivals and events in Portugal
Planning a trip to Portugal? From colourful Santos Populares in June to magical Christmas markets in December, Portugal’s festivals and events bring the country to life. These guides help you discover the best celebrations during your holiday.
Annual festivals and events in Portugal you won’t want to miss
Music, traditions and street parties
Experience Portugal’s vibrant Carnaval celebrations in Lisbon, Ovar, and Torres Vedras. Expect colourful floats, samba rhythms, and plenty of fun in the streets.
Carnaval in Torres Vedras
Torres Vedras is famous for its witty floats, playful political satire, and giant papier-mâché heads. A truly unique way to celebrate Carnaval in Portugal.
Portugal’s Day of Freedom on 25 April
Every year on 25 April, Portugal celebrates the Carnation Revolution with parades, concerts, and flowers symbolising freedom and democracy.
Knights Templar Festival in Tomar
Every July, Tomar honours its Templar history with medieval fairs, knight re-enactments, and lively parades through the old town.
Festas dos Santos Populares
June comes alive with parades, folk music, and grilled sardines. From Santo António in Lisbon to São João in Porto, every city has its own traditions.
Óbidos Medieval Festival
Each July, the walled town of Óbidos transforms into a medieval fair with jousting tournaments, costumes, music, and traditional food stalls.
Christmas in Portugal: Festive Markets and Celebrations
Spend the Holidays in Lisbon
Lisbon shines at Christmas with festive lights, cosy markets, and highlights like Wonderland Lisboa, Rossio Square, and the giant tree at Praça do Comércio.
Christmas Markets in Lisbon
Lisbon’s Christmas markets bring the season to life with handmade gifts, treats, and festive vibes. Don’t miss Wonderland Lisboa, Rossio, and Campo Pequeno.
Visit Wonderland Lisboa
Held each year in Parque Eduardo VII, Wonderland Lisboa is the capital’s largest Christmas market with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and local treats and gifts.
Christmas in Óbidos: Vila Natal
Step into a fairytale at Óbidos Vila Natal, Portugal’s most magical Christmas village with ice rinks, shows, and festive fun for all ages.
Magical Lisbon Christmas Lights
From angel-lit avenues to giant baubles and sparkling trams, the festive charm is best experienced under the twinkle of the Lisbon Christmas lights.
Lisbon Christmas Lights Photo Walk
See Lisbon sparkle on a photo walk through its beautifully lit streets. Capture the magic behind the lens or let a professional photographer capture you among the lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest annual festivals in Portugal?
Portugal is famous for its colourful Carnaval parades in February, the Santos Populares street parties in June, summer medieval fairs, and magical Christmas markets in December.
When is Carnaval in Portugal?
Carnaval usually takes place in February, with the biggest celebrations in Torres Vedras, Ovar, Lisbon, and Madeira. Dates change each year, depending on the date of Easter.
What is the Carnation Revolution in Portugal?
On April 25th, Portugal celebrates the Carnation Revolution, which marked the end of the dictatorship in 1974. The day is marked by concerts, parades, and the wearing of red carnations as symbols of freedom.
What is the best time to visit Portugal for festivals?
Summer is the busiest season with festivals almost every weekend, but winter also brings Christmas markets and holiday events. June (Santos Populares) is especially lively.