Events in Europe
Óbidos Vila Natal
Óbidos Vila Natal (Óbidos Christmas Village) transforms the medieval walled town of Óbidos, Portugal, into a magical winter wonderland each December. The cobbled streets and castle grounds become a festive playground filled with Christmas markets, ice rinks, circuses, and themed attractions for children, including visits from Santa. Illuminated decorations and medieval architecture provide a fairytale backdrop, while stalls offer Portuguese sweets, gingerbread, and holiday crafts. Blending family fun with historic charm, Óbidos Vila Natal is one of Portugal’s most enchanting Christmas destinations.
Entrudo de Lisboa
Entrudo de Lisboa (Lisbon Carnival) is a lively and colorful pre-Lenten celebration that fills Portugal’s capital with music, parades, and street parties each February. Rooted in Portugal’s centuries-old Entrudo traditions, which blend Catholic, pagan, and folk customs, Lisbon’s version mixes classic Carnival revelry with modern flair. Neighborhoods like Bairro Alto, Alfama, and Belém host vibrant costume parades, samba-inspired rhythms, and spontaneous street dancing, while local bakeries serve festive treats such as malassadas and filhós. Blending heritage, creativity, and Lisbon’s sunny spirit, the Lisbon Carnival offers a joyful, distinctly Portuguese twist on the global Carnival season.
Caretos of Podence
Caretos de Podence is a vibrant carnival tradition from the village of Podence in northern Portugal, recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage. Each February during Entrudo (Carnival), young men called caretos storm the streets dressed in wild red, green, and yellow woolen costumes, wearing mischievous masks and clanging cowbells. Their playful antics—chasing locals, dancing, and stirring up noisy fun—symbolize fertility and the chaotic energy of spring’s arrival. Blending pagan roots with carnival spirit, the Caretos de Podence is one of Portugal’s most colorful and unique folk celebrations.
Festival Internacional de Chocolate de Óbidos
Festival Internacional de Chocolate de Óbidos (Óbidos International Chocolate Festival) transforms the medieval Portuguese town of Óbidos into a paradise for chocolate lovers each spring, typically from March to April. The cobbled streets and castle walls host dazzling chocolate sculptures, pastry competitions, live demonstrations, and workshops led by master chocolatiers. Visitors can taste an incredible range of artisanal chocolates, desserts, and drinks, while children enjoy interactive activities in the “Kids’ Chocolate House.” Blending culinary creativity, art, and the historic charm of Óbidos, the International Chocolate Festival is one of Portugal’s sweetest and most popular gourmet events.
Festa da Flor in Madeira
The Festa da Flor (Madeira Flower Festival) is a vibrant annual celebration held in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, showcasing the island’s stunning floral beauty. The festival features elaborate flower parades, intricate flower carpets, and the Wall of Hope, where children place flowers as a symbol of peace. Highlights include the Allegorical Flower Parade, with floats covered in colorful blooms, traditional folk performances, and a lively market selling floral arrangements and regional crafts. The event transforms Madeira into a fragrant, picturesque wonderland, celebrating the island’s rich botanical heritage and welcoming the arrival of spring.
European Night of Museums
The European Night of Museums is an annual event held across Europe, when museums and cultural institutions open their doors to the public for free or at a reduced price, offering special events, exhibits, and activities that are often not available during regular hours. The event aims to make culture and history more accessible and engaging by offering unique experiences such as guided tours, workshops, live performances, and interactive displays. It attracts thousands of visitors across various cities, providing a chance to explore the art, history, and heritage of Europe in a festive and dynamic atmosphere.
Festas de Lisboa
The Festas de Lisboa (Festivals of Lisbon) is an annual celebration held throughout the city of Lisbon, Portugal, in honor of Saint Anthony, the city's patron saint. Celebrated in June, the festival is famous for its lively street parties, parades, traditional music, and dancing, particularly the "bailes populares" (popular dances). One of the highlights is the Marchas Populares, where neighborhoods compete with colorful processions and performances. The streets of Lisbon are adorned with decorations, and visitors can enjoy local food, such as grilled sardines and traditional drinks. The Festas de Lisboa is a vibrant and joyful celebration of Lisbon's culture, community spirit, and history.
Festa de São João
The Festa de São João (Festival of Saint John) is an annual celebration held in Porto, Portugal, in honor of Saint John the Baptist. The festival, which takes place in June, is one of the most vibrant and popular events in Portugal, featuring street parties, music, dancing, and fireworks. A unique tradition of the festival is the hitting of people's heads with plastic hammers, as a playful gesture of celebration. The Festa de São João also includes barbecues, with grilled sardines being a local favorite, and the release of sky lanterns into the night sky, creating a stunning visual display. It is a joyful and lively celebration of local culture, community spirit, and tradition.
Rali Vinho da Madeira
The Rali Vinho da Madeira (Madeira Wine Rally) is an annual motorsport event held on the island of Madeira, Portugal, celebrating the island's renowned wine culture. This rally is part of the European Rally Championship and features a series of challenging road stages through the island's mountainous terrain. Participants race on winding, narrow roads surrounded by stunning scenic views, with the event drawing international drivers and motorsport enthusiasts. In addition to the racing, the Madeira Wine Rally also highlights the island's winemaking heritage, with events centered around local wines and gastronomy, making it a celebration of both speed and Madeira's culture.