Feira de São Martinho

Feira de São Martinho is a traditional fair that exists for hundreds of years (already since 1662). It is one of the oldest traditions in the Algarve. Literally, Feira de São Martinho translates as the fair of Saint Martin. The aim of the fair is to remind people that good deeds are not forgotten. It is a great fair which shows another side of the Algarve, one that many tourists do not get to see. Especially kids love this fair.

What to expect

Expect a lot of entertainment and exhibitors. When it comes to street food, this fair’s main traditions are eating roasted chestnuts and drinking the first of the year’s wine. When you enter the fair, you will smell the scent of roasted chestnuts. For € 2, you can get a dozen chestnuts. Other delicacies you can try are chorizo bread, bifanas, farturas, octopus and bifanas. Also, you can find many stalls selling shoes, handbags, jewellery, toys and much more. There is a big ferris wheel and other things to keep you entertained, such as music and bumper cars.

For a preview of the event, check out the video below.

 

Where?

The fair takes place in Portimão, at the Fair and Exhibition Centre. The exact address is:

Parque de Feiras e Exposições de Portimão
Caldeira do Moinho
8500-726 Portimão

When?

In 2019, the fair is held from November 8-17. This is the 357th edition. During weekdays, it starts at 4 PM and lasts until 1 AM. On Saturdays and Sundays, the fair already opens at 10 AM. The main day (Saint Martin’s day) is November 11.

What is the entrance fee?

There is no entrance fee. It is free to enter Feira de São Martinho. Of course you do pay for food, drinks and certain kinds of entertainment.

More information

For more information about the fair, check out the website of the municipality of Portimão.