There are many terrific summer events and festivals in Portugal, from up north in Porto, to Lisbon and the mid-section, to Algarve in the south. Western European luxury vacations don't come much better than along the coast of Portugal. The regions of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago along the Algarve coast offer many top-notch hotels, resorts, and luxury rental villas typical of Portugal. But a summer tourist can't spend the whole vacation on resort property, at least not if a sense of authentic Portugal is to be experienced. Here, then, are some recommended summer activities and festivals in the Algarve, the southernmost section of Portugal.
Summer Festivals and Activities in the Algarve Region of Portugal
- The Castro Marim Medieval Fair is Middle Ages-style festival, replicating the medieval era in Portugal. The castle here, Castro Marim, hosts a four days (and four nights) of this fun festival every summer. And every summer, tourists and repeat visitors alike come to enjoy the spectacle. There's an entire royal court to watch: Kings and queens, court jesters, knights and fair ladies alike stroll the grounds. The activities and sights of the Castro Marim Medieval Fair here include banquets with live, authentic Middle Ages music, street theater, and best of all, real jousting tournaments. There are local crafts and merchandise sold that reflect both modern and Middle Ages artistic styles.
- The Algarve Summer Program celebrates the region with a wide range of activities, ranging from the 1000 km Le Mans Series (race is July 2-August 2 in 2009, exact date changes each year) to art, dance, and music performances. A new highlight is Projecto Convidado, an artist-in-residence style program. This program the Art Algarve, will bring in internationally renown art curators. The annual jazzfest, "Algarve Jazz" is the largest festival of its type in all of Portugal. The coastal town of Loule will host a ball 750 feet below sea level, and the same town, along with Faro, Lagos and Portimao hosts "The Sun" art shows all summer long.
- The Portimao Sardine Festival is held annually in August. Don't like sardines? Don't worry; while there is plenty of eating the little fishies at this celebration, sardines are also honored (sort of) as an important part of Portuguese history. Portimao is a quiet little fishing town most of the year, with this festival being the biggest activity of the summer season. The festival is fun, with live music and food (not all sardine-based, though they certainly take center stage). Handmade art and crafts, fireworks over the port, and music into the night make this festival hard to resist.
These recommended summer activities and festivals in the Algarve region of Portugal make a vacation there interesting and fun. Enjoy a summer on the coast!
Jennifer W. Miner - Jennifer has years of travel writing experience, spoken at several national conferences, and more. See Jendeavor.com for more details.
