10 summer parties you should discover

1. Senhor de Matosinhos: starting the summer with good times

A Portuguese summer party asks for fireworks, stages, amusements and food trucks. It asks for grilled sardine aroma and the flavours of the sea. Senhor de Matosinhos parties might not technically belong to the summer season, but they are the perfect appetiser for the months ahead. 

Before you drive towards what’s considered one of the most famous religious fests in the north of Portugal, we’ll leave you with a curious fact. According to folk legends, the image of Christ celebrated in Senhor de Matosinhos was sculpted by a contemporary of Jesus, Nicodemos. Tales tell us that he witnessed the death of Christ and that his sculpture is the one that most resembles Jesus. 

When does it happen? May/June

Where? Matosinhos, Porto

2. Popular Saints: walk through a parade of unmissable parties

In June the days grow longer and the parties sprawl across the whole country. The trio of summer parties Santo António, São João and São Pedro provide the kick-off to the summer joy in Portugal. The so-called Popular Saint parties are celebrated on the streets of iconic neighbourhoods. They stand out for their exuberant decorations and for their "adoration” of the sardine, which is the gastronomic flagship of the June festivities. 

The Popular Saint festivities start in Lisbon, with Santo António. The party takes full speed with the Marchas Populares parade. After that, people walk from stage to stage across the most charismatic neighbourhoods, such as Alfama, Bica, Madragoa, Mouraria and Graça.

Up north, June takes us to the frantic joy of the São João parties in the cities of Porto and Braga.  In Porto, the São João night is heavy on sardines, friendly bashing with plastic hammers and floating colourful lanterns. In Braga, the night breathes party spirit and celebration rises as high as the gigantic dancing figurines, called cabeçudos, which bring a folk vibe to this raucous celebration. 

Your tour of Popular Saints festivities finishes with São Pedro party. This occasion is exuberantly celebrated in Póvoa de Varzim, Sintra and Évora. 

When does it happen? June

3. São Vicente Fest: in Madeira, even the Laurel Forest joins the party

Hidden away on its northern coast, is one of Madeira’s best summer parties. In August, the joy of São Vicente celebrations can be heard from the depths of volcanic caves to the highest green cliffs. With concerts, dances and flavours, a visit to São Vicente will give you a glimpse of Madeira’s most genuine culture and traditions. 

When does it happen? August

Where? São Vicente, Madeira

4. Semana do Mar: fun ahoy! In Faial island

For over 40 years that those who love the sea, and more, set sail to Faial, in the Azores. Here, amongst green fields and the immense blue of the Atlântic, there is a party spirit that will shake your whole summer. During Semana do Mar there’s lots of activity washing out at Faial. From yacht and whaler regattas to the best gastronomy, energising concerts, traditions, folk dancing and exhibitions. 

A memorable week by the sea, on the sea and in the sea. 

When does it happen? August

5. Medieval Journey in Santa Maria: back to the past, for the summer

Summer calls for partying, but have you ever imagined what a summer party would be like in medieval times? You don’t even need to imagine, because you can live it in Santa Maria da Feira. In August, this town becomes an open-air museum, alive with great family-friendly experiences. Across fittingly dressed streets, you can find taverns, historical re-enactments, markets, medieval workshops and many other surprises. However, stay alert, knights are roaming Santa Maria, looking for opportunities to defend their kingdom. 

When does it happen? August

Where? Santa Maria da Feira

6. Senhora da Agonia: in Viana, there’s a heartfelt summer party

To call itself truly grand, a summer party must celebrate on a variety of fronts. Senhora da Agonia celebrates religion, ethnography, music, gastronomy and culture. Attending this party in Viana do Castelo is a great opportunity to feel the Minho region’s essence. It is everywhere. In the lively colours of the traditional costumes, in the crafts, in the singing, in the processions and in the flower carpets that drop kisses of colour along the streets of this seaside city. 

When does it happen? August

7. Tabuleiros Fest: balance, joy and colour in Tomar

Layers and layers of fun are awaiting in Tomar, in Tabuleiros Fest. This summer party, which only happens every four years, has a very unusual tradition. A parade in which young girls carry on their heads huge towers, or tabuleiros, of bread and flowers. Each tower must be as high as the girl who carries it. Upon it, will sit 30 loaves of bread, baked with a particular shape. This festive construction is heavily decorated with flowers and lace, before being placed on its mistress’ head. Each girl is supported by a boy and both walk side-by-side, towards the city. Witnessing the parade of hundreds of these curious couples is a sight to be seen. 

When does it happen? July

Where? Tomar

8. São Mateus Fair: you haven’t seen such a big party in ages

How about attending a summer party that is 630 years old? That’s right, Viseu has 6 centuries of experience creating a proper stage for memorable days of summer fun. 

The grand São Mateus Fair lasts for 30 days, with a rich programme of activities for the whole family. You can attend concerts of national and international artists, have a spin on the amusements, taste one of the many local specialities or shop quality crafts during the so-called "guardian of fun fairs”.

When does it happen? August and September

9. Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem Fest: in Peniche, the sea sparkles with summer joy

If you travel to Peniche, you can celebrate the saint guardian of fishermen and all travellers. In front of us are the well-known Portuguese summer party ingredients: the religious context, concerts, country dancing and grilled sardines. However, Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem Fest hides a particularity that is only revealed at night-time, a nocturnal boat parade that covers Peniche’s south bay. Boats as far as the eye can reach. Big boats, small boats, fishing and leisure, all of them carrying images of saints from surrounding parishes. They float gently, brightened by fairy lights that tremble in the silvery sea. 

It’s worth a journeyl, for a glimpse of this enchanted picturesque tradition.

When does it happen? July and August 

Where? Peniche

10. Feiras Novas: and now for something completely new, in Ponte de Lima

Nothing better than one more summer party to close the season. But this time you better get ready, because Feiras Novas has already become known as the "largest live showcase of Portuguese culture”. In Feiras Novas, Ponte de Lima’s streets are set alight with friendly singing scrapes, that challenge everyone to join in. Here, deep in the heart of the Minho region, there is music, mouth-watering flavours and joy in every smile. There’s no better place to toast to the end of another summer.

When does it happen? September

It takes a lot of energy to keep up with a quintessential Portuguese summer. Guerin can help you there. 

Summer parties, fests and celebrations are the ultimate way to dive into Portuguese culture. Get ready for the liveliest months of the year, and don’t forget to take a look at the best holiday destinations in Portugal. Guerin can’t wait to join you, choose the best car to fit your needs, from our wide choice of family-friendly options or rides that will impress your friends. Get going to the next party, make your reservation and bring on the summer.