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01/03/2025
Carnaval in Portugal
The first references to the celebration of Carnaval in Portugal are from the 16th century, during the reign of D. Sebastião, with reports of pranks and games of people throwing eggs and flour at each other or buckets of water or worse things. Carnaval was exported by the Portuguese to the then colony of Brazil, from where the modern elements of samba returned in the 20th century, which currently influence the Carnaval of some Portuguese locations.
From north to south of the country, the streets begin to come alive. Find out which are the best spots to experience this while you’re in Portugal:
*Podence
For 3 days, the "Caretos" (men characterized with diabolical figures) animate the streets of Podence. They represent the chaos of the reverse and the fertility of spring. They were declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2019.
Originally, they were associated with the figure of the "devil on the loose" and represented the excesses, euphoria and joy allowed at this time of year, after the cold winter months, also celebrating the fertility of the approaching spring.
*Torres Vedras
The Carnaval of Torres Vedras is a secular event. Celebrated 100 years in 2023
Remaining faithful to traditions, the Carnaval of Torres Vedras stands out for its distinctive elements, such as the Kings (2 men), the “Matrafonas” ( men dressing as women), the “Cabeçudos”, the “Cocotes”, the floats. It takes place over 6 long days and it’s the most Portuguese Carnaval in Portugal, with all its political, social satire, local, national and international.
Sesimbra
closer to Lisbon, but without losing the fun, the best option will be the Sesimbra Carnival. This is, for many, one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Over the next few days, more than a thousand participants and thousands of revelers are expected through the streets of the village — and of course there will be no shortage of concerts and DJ sets
*Loulé
Further south, in Loulé (Algarve), political satire once again inspires more than half a thousand masqueraders. From the 11th to the 13th of February, the Algarve city will be invaded by dolls, giants and loggerheads of all kinds, in what is one of the oldest Carnaval parties in the country. During the three days, 14 floats and about 600 extras will parade
As usual, the Loulé Carnaval once again has a solidarity aspect. The proceeds from the tickets go to the associations participating in the parades
*Ovar
The Carnival of Ovar, in the district of Aveiro, deserves a visit at least once in a lifetime. If there are those who say that Carnival is three days, it is because it has never come here. In this city, the party has already started on January 20 — but there's still a lot to enjoy!
The Great Magic Night of the Carnival of Ovar is from Monday to Tuesday. On this date, seven stages will be spread across the city
*Funchal
The celebrations have already begun, with the traditional “Festa dos Compadres”, but you can still watch the allegorical parade that brings together thousands of revelers and floats on the avenues and roundabouts of the capital.
In addition to the parades, be sure to try the “Poncha”, Madeira wine and local-style kebabs
Enjoy Portugal
