Porto comes alive during its vibrant summer events, welcoming both locals and tourists. From music festivals to fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t just stick to the city center, nearby areas also host unique summer events. Get ready to experience the best of Porto’s summer scene with these 5 unique events in Porto this summer.
1. Maia Blues Fest
Promoted by the Department of Culture of the Maia City Council, Maia Blues Fest is an annual blues festival that takes place outdoors on September 8, 9, and 10. The best part – it is free to attend! The event is located in Maia, a city 15 minutes from Porto.
This year’s edition features:
- September 8: The Smokestackers and The Cinelli Brothers
- September 9: Chino & The Big Bet and Sugar Queen
- September 10: Maia Blues Fest Band and Chris Luquette East Coast Bluegrass Band
2. The World Battle
For the sports and dance lovers, The World Battle 2023, is an international street sports and culture festival, running from August 30 to September 3. This global event gathers over 300 athletes representing more than 60 nations, competing to earn points and the chance to represent their country in the 2024 Olympic Games.
The festival includes an opportunity to see one of the largest Breaking and Topstyle competitions, as well as exhibitions, a market, and dance workshops.
3. Feira do Livro
Organized by the Porto city council, this year’s Feira do Livro (Book Fair) is taking place between August 25 and September 10 at the Crystal Palace Gardens. The yearly event is a space for authors to showcase and present their work, as well as for visitors to purchase books of all genres. This year’s edition pays homage to Manuel António Pina, a Portuguese journalist author, winner of the Camões Award.
Make sure to also explore the location, the Crystal Palace Gardens. This park is a beautifully landscaped garden adorned with meandering pathways, fountains, sculptures, and lush trees. Crafted by Émille David, a skilled landscape architect from Germany, in the 1800s, these gardens offer the perfect setting for a relaxing and enjoyable walk.
4. Fest’Agro
For a traditional Portuguese experience, head to Fest’Agro, an agricultural festival created to promote the local economy and agricultural sector. The festival includes picturesque stands with handicrafts, a food court with traditional cuisine, exhibitions, a museum, and a stage for musical performances.
This year, Quim Barreiros, a singer of “pimba” music will be performing, along with other artists of popular Portuguese music.
5. Paredes de Coura
Although Paredes de Coura is technically not in Porto, it is worth the 50-minute drive. Vodafone Paredes de Coura is happening between August 16 to 19, 2023. Located in Praia Fluvial do Taboão in Caminho do Agrelo, Paredes De Coura is known for its alternative music scene.
This year’s performers include Wilco, Fever Ray, Loyle Carner, Jessie Ware, Kokoroko, and more. Fun fact – this festival has made the list of the top 5 music festivals in Europe by Rolling Stone.
