What's On in the Algarve

Cultural Events

Silves’ Medieval Fair
Every August, the city of Silves hosts a magnificent Medieval fair in its historic centre, during which enthusiastic jugglers and musicians entertain visitors, colourful market stalls fill the streets and amusing activities revive the spirit of the Middle Ages.

The MED Festival
The eclectic MED Festival is one of the most exciting events in the region and is held every June in the historic centre of Loulé. ‘World Music’ concerts, a variety of handicraft stalls, dance and theatre performances, as well as a selection of multicultural gastronomy can all be enjoyed at this vibrant event.

Loulé’s International Jazz Festival
The Algarve is home to one of the most popular jazz festivals in the country. Every July, the Casa da Cultura in Loulé invites acclaimed musicians to perform at the lovely Cerca do Convento, which includes a variety of free-jazz, blues, classic jazz and funk concerts.

FIESA – International Sand Sculpture Festival
Between March and October, the town of Pêra holds an unexpected surprise — the world’s largest sand sculpture festival (FIESA). Since 2003, this event, unique in the Iberian Peninsula, brings together artists from all over the world specialised in sculpting sand. In their hands, the 40,000 tons of sand, spread over an area of 15,000 m2, are given extraordinary shapes. With a different theme each year, "Mythology", "Wonders of the World", "Hollywood" and "Music" served as inspiration to some of the editions. The festival also offers its visitors a playful area where children and adults can try their luck in the art of sculpting sand. 

Carnival in Loulé
Carnival arrives in Loulé every February – one of the best places in the country to celebrate this time of year. Have fun watching bright floats and smiling dancers parade through the streets to the sound of lively beats and tunes, and fully enjoy the vivacious spirit of this cheerful tradition.

FOLKFARO – International Folklore Festival
This festival is held in Faro every year to promote the value of different traditions around the globe. Live shows, entertainment for children, parades and wonderful gastronomic displays are some of the exciting activities this event organises to celebrate the beauty of world culture.

FATACIL – Handicraft, Tourism, Agriculture, Trade and Industry Fair
Held in Lagoa every August, this entertaining fair is one of the most popular summer events to take place in the Algarve. Live performances by famous Portuguese and international acts, countless stalls displaying traditional crafts and pottery, as well as a rich variety of typical gastronomy are all on offer at this regional fair.

The ‘White Night’
Towards the end of August, Loulé bids summer good-bye with a trendy party where everyone must wear white! During the evening, chill-out music sounds through the bustling streets of the city’s historic centre, extravagant painters, fire-eaters and street musicians thrill visitors and dancing goes on until the early hours – a great experience for a unique night out!

Gastronomic Events

The Shellfish Festival
This is one of the most ‘delicious’ festivals in the Algarve and takes place every August in Olhão. Clams, succulent oysters, shrimp, crayfish, lobster and crab will give you a taste of the Algarve. Entertainment and regional sweets can also be enjoyed at this fun festival.

The Sardine Festival
Portimão stages an exciting festival near its waterfront, where you can enjoy the region’s famous grilled sardines to the sound of Portuguese, Brazilian and African live music concerts. Every year when the festival ends, colourful fireworks illuminate the sky to celebrate the success of this popular event.

The Traditional Sausage Fair
Explore the exquisite flavours of Portugal’s famous sausages in Monchique’s traditional fair every March. Artisan-made chouriços and smoked ham, as well as typical Algarvian sweets and pastries can all be savoured at this annual event.

Sports Events

Vale de Lobo Grand Championship ATP Seniors Tour
Every August, the trendy Vale do Lobo resort hosts the most popular tennis tournament in the Algarve, inviting prestigious tennis players from all over the world to participate in the event and attracting large crowds of tennis lovers.

F 1 Powerboat Grand Prix
This thrilling race is one of Portimão’s most well-known events and marks the first stage of the F 1 Power Boat World Championship. Every May, avid supporters get together to watch international leading drivers and teams challenge each other on the water.

Portugal Match Cup - World Match Racing Tour
Every June, Portimão’s lovely marina hosts one of the nine stages of this acclaimed sailing tournament. Welcoming professional sailors from different countries, this is a wonderful event water sports fans will enjoy.

Portugal Masters Golf Tournament
Vilamoura receives prestigious golf players every year to participate in this fabulous event – one of the leading golf events in Portugal. Taking place every October at the resort’s stunning Victoria Golf Club, this is an idyllic occasion for enthusiastic golf devotees. Hotel accommodation may be found here.

‘Mundialito’ Beach Soccer Tournament
This beach soccer tournament has become one of the most anticipated summer events in the Algarve. Taking place in Praia da Rocha in August, have fun watching international teams play exciting matches on this sunny beach.