Easter is probably one of the biggest and most important of all celebrations held in Portugal along with Christmas time.  Here is what you can expect from spending Easter in Portugal!

Easter is full of symbolism, many people attend church over this time, it is traditional to eat fish only during Lent and there are Holy Week processions and Catholic rituals to be seen in small villages and large cities alike! A special gathering and celebration is held on Easter Sunday, which takes place in some (but not all!) churches and is followed by a procession where people stand to be greeted and receive blessings.

The emphasis is very much on religion and as always in Portugal there is a huge focus on family and community. People who do not celebrate in an especially religious way often use this time to go on holiday or take some time to see those they love.

Festivities begin with Palm Sunday which is the week before Easter Sunday, the entire week is usually celebrated with processions (as mentioned above).

Good Friday is a public holiday in Portugal.

Easter Sunday is a family day and also a public holiday so most shops will be closed.

Easter Monday is not officially a public holiday, but people do often take the day off so they can spend more time with family.

FOOD

For food lovers Easter in Portugal will not disappoint! There are almonds covered in sugar, Folar de Olhão which is a spiced caramelized cake (like a cinnamon bun), chocolate (and chocolate Easter eggs of course!) on Easter Sunday a there is usually roast meat (often goat) served with roasted potatoes and often roasted chestnuts too. There is Folar (a gift traditionally given by godfathers to their godchildren) See this link to Culinary Backstreets for more information on Folar and a recipe, and the much loved Easter cake Pão-de-Ló which is a type of cake which seems to be dry or moist (and depends on the region in Portugal you are in).

Do keep a look out for local celebrations and displays (such as the beautiful floral displays in  São Brás de Alportel).

Are you aware of any local celebrations and traditions in the village or town near you?

Comment below to share what happens in your part of Portugal or to let us know how you will be celebrating this year.