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Celebrate the amazing Carnaval Torres Vedras in Portugal
⚠️ UPDATE: Carnival in Torres Vedras was cancelled in February but is now replaced by Uma Festa do Caraças from April 30th until May 3rd 2026.
If you thought Carnaval in Portugal was just about Lisbon or Rio-inspired samba, think again. Just an hour north of the capital, Torres Vedras throws one of the wildest, most authentic celebrations in the country, and it’s full of surprises.
We visited during Carnaval and were blown away by the satirical floats and locals in drag. Yep, one of the quirkiest traditions here is the “Matrafonas”, men dressed as exaggerated women to poke fun at politics and society. Add in centuries-old roots (this party’s been going since at least 1574!) and a parade schedule packed from February 13th to February 18, 2026, and you’ve got a festival unlike any other in Portugal.
In this post, I’ll share what makes the Torres Vedras Carnaval so unique, what to expect during the parades, and how to enjoy it like a local.
When is the Torres Vedras Carnaval?
In 2026, the Carnaval de Torres Vedras is from February 13th until February 18th. The program will be announced closer to the date so you can plan your trip accordingly.
What can you expect during Carnaval de Torres Vedras 2026?
Carnaval in Portugal is a fantastic time to explore the country’s culture! Some cities are extra special during this time of year, and Torres Vedras hosts one of the largest parties in Portugal. However, this was not always the case, and in the 19th century, it was celebrated in private homes and recreational societies.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Corso, the floats, the flower battles and the figures of the Carnival Kings were introduced. Let’s take a closer look at some of the events that take place during the Torres Vedras Carnaval and what you can expect.
The Corsos
The allegorical floats are a highlight for many visitors to the carnival. The theme of the floats changes annually, but they often have humorous and satirical decorations. It can relate to local or international politics, current affairs, public figures, etc.
There will be several parades during the event, and they occur during the day and at night. This way, you can see at least one or multiple parades.
During the parade, you can see the presentation of samba schools, typical figures with enormous heads, and the Zés Pereiras drumming groups with traditional drums. Many groups will come by, and it’s the perfect time to take some photos! The parade can take several hours, so bear that in mind.
Matrafonas
The Torres Vedras Carnaval is not complete without the matrafonas. This tradition of men dressing up as women has gone through many generations, and it’s been thought the first matrafona made an appearance in 1924.
It may also have had to do with the economic difficulties at the time, where people didn’t have the money to buy masks and costumes. Therefore, they resorted to wearing their wives’ or mothers’ clothes. But there are different arguments as to why this happens.
You will also spot the Kings of the Torres Vedras Carnival, two men from the community who are the symbolic representatives during the Carnival. The Royal Brotherhood of Carnival is responsible for selecting the king and queen, and the titles change every year.
Other events at night
After the night parade, the city centre will have an enormous party with music. There will be a large stage, and the crowds will enjoy a drink or two. We stayed with friends around the corner from the main stage, and there was so much happening! Later at night, things got a bit messy with drunken people, but the overall atmosphere was lovely!
Tickets for Torres Vedras Carnaval 2026
You can purchase online tickets for the Carnaval de Torres Vedras, or you can get tickets in the city centre. You can buy a day ticket or a wristband for all days in several booths around town. You’ll be asked to show your wristband whenever you enter the centre.
How to get to Torres Vedras?
Torres Vedras is located an hour north of Lisbon. You can rent a car to reach the town, but it’s also easy to come by bus. You can take the 700 bus line from Campo Grande in Lisbon, and the journey takes around 40 minutes. You can buy tickets on the bus (cash) and don’t need to prebook tickets. The bus is operated by Barraqueiro Oeste.
Book your hotel in Torres Vedras early!
Torres Vedras is usually a pretty sleepy town with only a few hotels. If you want to stay a few nights, be sure to book your hotel well in advance. The hotels are all within walking distance of the centre.
The Stay Hotel Torres Vedras Centro is super central, and you can even see the parade from the rooftop! Graça Garden Torres Vedras is a lovely Bed and Breakfast near all the Carnaval celebrations.
Bear in mind the city is jam-packed and will be loud at night! If you prefer a good night’s sleep, stay a little further away from the centre. You can use the map below to check availability and locations.
FAQ
How long is the Carnaval in Torres Vedras?
Six days! The next Carnaval in Torres Vedras is from February 13th until February 18th, 2026.
Is celebrating the Torres Vedras Carnaval worth it?
It is! The Carnaval de Torres Vedras is one of the largest parties in Portugal. Many families attend the parade, and at night, many youngsters enjoy the celebrations.
Why is the Torres Vedras carnival so unique?
Besides the many parades, there are two unique things to Carnaval de Torres Vedras. One, you’ll see a lot of parody, and two, many men dressed up as women. These are the so-called Matrafonas.
How old is the Carnaval de Torres Vedras?
The first reference to the Carnival festivities in Torres Vedras dates back to 1574.
Are you celebrating the Carnaval Torres Vedras 2026?
Carnaval in Torres Vedras is a must if you like the annual celebration. It’s one of the best parties in Portugal, and many people travel to the city in February each year. Carnaval de Torres Vedras is filled with traditions, and you can watch the floats and activities for several days. Staying the night is definitely recommended if you want to attend the evening parades, but book early, and accommodation options are limited.
Other events in Portugal:
- Cultural Portugal festivals and events you don’t want to miss
- Carnaval Portugal with stunning outfits, parades, and dates
- Carnaval in Torres Vedras
- Celebrate the Carnation Revolution in Portugal on April 25th
- Celebrate Festas dos Santos Populares in Portugal in June
- Visiting the Óbidos Medieval Festival in Portugal in July
- Enjoy the unique Knights Templar Festival in Tomar in July
- Christmas in Lisbon
- Photography Experiences in Lisbon during Christmas
- Best Christmas markets in Lisbon
- Wonderland Lisboa: the largest Christmas market in Lisbon
- Where to find the most beautiful Lisbon Christmas lights
- Christmas in Óbidos
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