Ah, Portugal!

A country so rich in culture and tradition that each region feels like a new world waiting to be explored.

We thought we would take you on a personal journey through the traditions that have captured the PP team’s hearts, just as they have enchanted generations of locals and travellers alike.

Up North: Where Tradition Meets Celebration

Have you ever been hit with a leek? In Porto, during the Festa de São João, it’s a compliment! People of all ages gather in the streets every June, playfully hitting each other with leeks or soft plastic hammers, dancing around bonfires. It is a brilliant thing to see the laughter and the joy in everyone’s eyes.

And the Vindimas! If you’ve never felt the sensation of grapes squishing between your toes, you haven’t truly lived. The Douro Valley comes alive with song and dance as everyone participates in the grape harvest.

The Heart of Portugal: Central Delights

In the charming villages of Central Portugal, places such as Penamacor have the Madeiro. This Christmas Eve celebration, where a massive bonfire is lit in the village square will feel like stepping into a living painting, connecting with something timeless – watching the local bombeiros having to cool the fire down to stop it melting the shutters on local houses nearby is quite a thing too (and yes, it has happened before!)

The Festival dos Tabuleiros in Tomar left us speechless with its beauty. Women carrying trays laden with bread and flowers on their heads, their faces glowing with pride – one to see for sure!

Lisbon: A City Alive with Tradition

In Lisbon, a few of the team have danced in the streets during the Santo António Festival, noses filled with the scent of grilled sardines. This festival leaves you feeling a part of something, swaying to the melancholic strains of Fado music in a way like no other.

The Carnation Revolution Commemoration is always a sobering and heartfelt reminder of the revolution, the streets adorned with red carnations, symbols of freedom and change.

Alentejo’s Soulful Melodies and Algarve’s Festive Spirit

In the Alentejo we were captivated by the hauntingly beautiful Cante Alentejano, while the Festival do Crato offers a blend of music, crafts, and flavours.

The Algarve’s sunny shores offer much more than stunning beaches. The Festival da Ria Formosa is a feast for the senses, and the Carnival of Loulé is always a riot of colour and joy, just don’t expect to be able to drive down any roads when it is on, the processions go on for miles!

Island Life: Azores and Madeira

The traditions of the Azores and Madeira feels like a warm embrace. São João da Vila in the Azores is a joyful amalgamation of faith and festivity, while Madeira’s Flower Festival will leave you feeling like you are walking in a floral wonderland.

Let’s Keep Exploring

Portugal is more than a destination; it’s a feeling, an experience, a connection. The traditions we have shared with you are only the tip of the iceberg. Portugal LOVES to celebrate and loves tradition.

Help us keep exploring, dancing, tasting, and living the rich tapestry that is Portugal by sharing your favourite ones below. Whether you live here or are setting foot in this beautiful country for the first time, Portugal’s traditions are waiting to welcome you with open arms.