Most villages and towns in Portugal have their own traditional festival (Festa) or pilgrimage (romaria). These summer festivals in Portugal celebrate history, religion and culture. There are also some great contemporary events throughout the year, including music festivals, sand sculptures, gay pride events, and more. Visiting one of the popular summer festivals in Portugal is a great way to get to know the rich culture.
1. Noite Branca Loulé
One of the popular traditions of the Algarve is Loulé White Night. It attracts people all over Portugal and beyond. This is the most prominent White Night party in the region and is held every two years. Held as a farewell to the Algarve summer, the festival includes planned programs, including street performances by bands and DJs. It’s an all-white dress-up party, with city residents even bringing out white sofas to decorate the street fronts and shops decorated with white décor.
2. Rock in Rio Lisboa
Rock music is a big thing in Europe and many festivals celebrate its invention. And one of Europe’s largest rock festivals, Rio Lisboa Rock is held in Portugal. It is modeled on the Brazilian music festival called Rock in Rio and is the best place to enjoy rock festivals in the country. This event will be held for five days in Bela Vista Park in Lisbon. Many of the most popular international rock performers, bands, other musicians, and talented DJs play at this Portuguese music festival! This popular summer festival in Portugal also provides an opportunity for new talent to perform and offers enough food and beverage stops for its visitors.
3. Porto’s Festa de São João
One of the most popular summer festivals in Portugal, the Festa de São João, is an event to attend. This Portuguese ceremony is held every year to host five weeks of fun and celebration. It is held in June as a form of homage to St. John and includes many things to make your visit memorable. At Festa de São João you can see, admire and enjoy a variety of traditional musical performances, skip bonfires, enjoy homemade and international snacks, musical dances, and much more.
4. Festival de Sintra
If you enjoy classical music, then this most famous summer festival in Portugal is perfect for you. Usually held in May or June, the Festival de Sintra lasts for three weeks. Queluz and Sintra are surrounded by many large palaces and beautiful gardens. You can entertain the choir performances of many world-class symphony orchestras and enjoy a variety of other programs, including ballet performances, musical shows, classical concerts, and much more. In addition to various shows, this fair also hosts and hosts exciting concerts for children.
5. Festa dos Tabuleiro
Festa dos Tabuleiros, literally translated as the “Trays Festival”, is a beautiful holiday that includes drinking, music, dancing and fireworks. The festival is held every four years in July on the streets of Tomar. In full festival mode, Tomar lives with decorations, music, parades and food for an entire week. The city center is decorated with colorful blankets on the balconies and handmade paper flowers. Participants can get involved in making the decorations and cheer for the marching women. It is one of the most popular festivals in the region.