JANUARY
Epiphany (6 Jan). Bolo rei, or “king’s cake,” the customary Epiphany confection, is consumed on this day. Celebration of Saint Gonçalo (2nd week). With nets and umbrellas, a crowd gathers at Capela de So Gonçalinho in Aveiro to collect bread loaves thrown from the roof.
FEBRUARY
Fantasporto (late Feb–early Mar). The international film festival in Porto features a lot of new science fiction, horror, and fantasy films. The Carnival (Shrove Tuesday; exact date varies). In one last celebration before the somber days of Lent, parades, extravagant costumes, and floats fill the streets of Portugal.
MARCH
Lisbon fashion (mid-Mar). the first of two fashion weeks each year, the second of which is held in October and features runway shows in Lisbon. Lisbon Half Marathon with EDP (midMar). Runners from all over the world cross the Ponte 25 Abril to finish at the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Belém in one of the most well-attended athletic events in the capital.
APRIL
Santa Week (Easter week; exact date varies). During Holy Week, somber processions of hooded, barefoot worshippers whirling spooky rattles light up the city of Braga. Fish in Lisbon (early–mid-Apr). Restaurants provide samples and chefs hold demonstrations during Lisbon’s fish festival. Dia de la Revolución (25 Apr). The Carnation Revolution of 1974, which ended 48 years of authoritarianism without any violence, is commemorated with a military parade, political speeches, and festivities.
MAY
Pilgrimage to Fatima (13 May). To celebrate the 1917 apparition of the Virgin to three shepherd children, thousands of people assemble. Flower Festival in Madeira (mid-May). During this yearly celebration, which culminates in a charming procession, Funchal’s stores and homes are decorated with flowers.
JUNE
Saint Anthony (12 and 13 June). This wild party brings the Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon to life. São João (23 and 24 Jun). At the Porto street celebration, be on the lookout for persons brandishing plastic hammers. Portuguese Pride (last weekend). The capital is host to a number of LGBT+ activities, including club nights and a joyful parade.
JULY
The Tabuleiros Festival (early Jul; every 4 years; next in 2019). Women carry tabuleiros, 30 flower-adorned loaves of bread topped with crowns, on their heads at Tomar’s “Festival of the Trays.” Alive NOS (mid-Jul). Lisbon hosts a renowned indie, rock, and alternative music festival.
AUGUST
Week of March (1st week). Horta’s Festival of the Sea in Faial in the Azores will feature food, music, crafts, watersports, and exciting events. Gulaterianas Festival (1st weekend). The celebration in Guimares features a torch-lit march through the streets, a medieval parade, and a ton of dancing.SNOVEMBER
All Hallows’ Day (1 Nov). Candles are lighted and flowers are laid on cemeteries all around the nation to remember the deceased. National Cavalo Day Festival (first two weeks). Races and parades are held in Goleg, the capital of horses in Portugal, where owners display their thoroughbreds. Festival of Saint Martin (11 Nov). In Madeira, St. Martin’s Day is observed with roast chestnuts and wine tastings of the newest vintage.
SEPTEMBER
Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Romaria (1st week). The culmination of three days of processions is a visit to Lamego’s well-known shrine. “Feiras Novas” (early to mid- Sep). A sizable market including a fairground, fireworks, carnival-themed attire, and a brass band competition is held in Ponte de Lima.
OCTOBER
Lisbon Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon (mid-Oct). Live music is played while runners compete in a race from Cascais to Lisbon’s Parque das Naçes. National Gastronomy Festival of Santarém (late Oct–early Nov). Food markets, wine tastings, and cooking demonstrations are held in Santarém.
DECEMBER
Christmas (25 Dec). After midnight mass, a typical bacalhau dinner is served (salted cod). Christmas Eve (31 Dec). The major cities are illuminated by fireworks, with Funchal having one of the largest displays.