festivals-and-events-in-Porto

Local Festivals and Events in Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and rich history. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of local festivals and events that showcase its unique traditions, music, food, and arts.

Festa das Candeias (Feast of the Candles)

  • Date: 3rd Sunday in August
  • Location: Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
  • Description: This traditional festival commemorates the miraculous preservation of a sacred candle from the 17th century. The event features a procession with decorated floats, music, and fireworks.

Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival)

  • Date: June 23rd-24th
  • Location: Various locations throughout Porto
  • Description: This popular festival honors the city’s patron saint, St. John the Baptist. Expect live music, street performers, and traditional food like francesinhas (sandwiches made with bread, steak, sausage, chicken, and melted cheese) and pastéis de nata (egg custard tarts).

Festa do Avante! (Avante Festival)

  • Date: Last week of August
  • Location: Parque da Cidade (City Park)
  • Description: This music festival features a diverse lineup of Portuguese and international artists, with a focus on rock, pop, and folk music.

Festa do Milho (Corn Festival)

  • Date: Late September
  • Location: Quinta de São João da Meda
  • Description: This agricultural fair showcases the region’s corn production and features traditional food, live music, and a variety of activities for all ages.

Porto Wine Festivals

Throughout the year, various events celebrate the city’s famous Port wine:

  • Porto Wine Festival (April-May): A series of tastings, workshops, and events dedicated to the appreciation of Port wine.
  • Port Wine Tasting (year-round): Regular tastings at local wine bars and restaurants.

Other Events

  • Porto Book Fair (June-July): A celebration of literature and culture with author talks, book signings, and exhibitions.
  • Porto Street Art Festival (September-October): A showcase of urban art, music, and food in the city’s streets and alleys.

These festivals and events offer a glimpse into Porto’s rich cultural heritage and provide opportunities to experience the city’s unique traditions, music, and food.