If you plan to visit Porto in December, you’re probably all ready for the port wine tastings, the city’s old-world architecture, and its incredible azulejos artworks. But the question is, have you prepared an itinerary that includes some of the biggest events that will crown this year’s end in Porto?
Well, if you haven’t done that yet, we’re here to help! Here are some of the best events happening in December in the amazing city of Porto. Are you ready for your dream holiday?
Spiritus by Ocubo
When: Throughout December
Where: Igreja dos Clérigos, R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto
How much: 10 EUR
Spiritus is a captivating 360-degree multimedia experience hosted in Porto’s historic Clerigos Church. The 30-minute audio-visual spectacle, created by Ocubo, masterfully blends light projections, music, and architectural elements.
The show draws inspiration from the poem “After all, the best way to travel is to feel” by Alvaro de Campos. The poem explores existential themes through the heteronym of Fernando Pessoa. Tourists can enjoy the show daily, with multiple sessions occurring throughout the day. During the event, the church’s interior will be completely transformed into a canvas of visual poetry!
Winter Fun in Maia
When: November 29 to January 5, 2025
Where: Doutor José Vieira de Carvalho Square
How much: Free entry
Winter means fun, even if there’s no snow around! In Porto, December is mostly about the ice rink and the carousel, but also about the train that rides around the square, presenting all the stalls and attractions tourists can enjoy.
It’s not an event per se, but when you come to Porto, you really mustn’t miss the Christmas markets and fairs. There are shops with traditional delicacies everywhere – from various types of sandes to unbelievably tasty mulled wine – or, obviously, a fine glass of port wine.
Christmas Exhibition – Golpe de Asa
When: November 29 to December 31
Where: Galleries Parque Italia, Rua Julio Dinis, nr. 47, Porto
The Golpe de Asa exhibition brings the holiday spirit closer with the help of handmade angels presented in various nativity scenes. Obviously, the exhibition celebrates the Christmas tradition, and it’s a perfect way for both tourists and locals to appreciate art and creativity, especially during this time of the year!
It’s a wonderful experience you can enjoy with your entire family, especially your kids, so make sure not to miss out on the opportunity to see Golpe de Asa!
Christmas Market at Time Out
When: November 29 to January 5, 2025
Where: Time Out Market Porto, Praça de Almeida Garrett, Ala Sul da Estação de Sao Bento, Porto
How much: Free entry
As mentioned above, Christmas markets are a must-see if you visit Lisbon or Porto in December. They bring together musicians, artists, as well as artisans for incredible gastronomic experiences. The Christmas market in Time Out Porto invites the public to the Urban Market Xmas Edition – an illuminated outdoor market with unique gifts from Portuguese brands.
This Time Out Christmas market is the perfect destination if you want to purchase truly unique gifts and savor some Portuguese delicacies!
Other Christmas Markets
We weren’t joking when we said that Porto is filled to the brim with Christmas markets! Besides the two mentioned so far, you can also check out:
- Artes & Oficios – throughout December, Avenida D. Afonso Henriques, Porto;
- Mercadinho de Natal in Maia – throughout December, Praca Doutor José Vieira de Carvalho, Maia;
- Mercado de Natal – throughout December, Praça da Batalha;
- Mercado Porto Belo – throughout December, Praça Carlos Alberto;
- Mercado de Natal de Serralves – until December 1, Parque de Serralves;
- Mercado do Sol – throughout December, Praça de Gomes Teixeira;
- Ohana Market – until December 1, R. de Passos Manuel 137;
- Mercado de Natal in Jardim da Cordoaria – until January 6, Jardim Joaca Chagas;
- Mercado da Alegria – Throughout December, Jardim do Passeio Alegre.
It doesn’t matter when in December you arrive in Porto, you’ll be just in time for a lovely Christmas market!
Tarzan the Musical
When: December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22
Where: Teatro Sá da Bandeira, R. de Sá Bandeira 108, 4000-427 Porto
How much: From 10 EUR
The exciting story of the Man of the Jungle, now on stage, presented as a musical with over 15 actors, singers, dancers, and acrobats who will fully transform the Tarzan experience – what a delight!
It’s a thrilling experience, especially for the youngest members of the family! There will be multiple sets to enjoy, as well as spectacular stunts that will wow the entire crowd, regardless of their age!
Vinyl, CD, K7, and Other Sound Artifacts Fair
When: December 6 – 7
Where: Rua Miguel Bombarda, 285, Porto
How much: Free entry
This event is dedicated to vinyl records, CDs, cassette tapes, and other sound artifacts, so if you’re a music aficionado or simply enjoy a rather special atmosphere, make sure to add this event to your must-visit list!
The fair is located on Rua Miguel Bombarda, a street riddled with various creative spaces and art galleries. Therefore, this fair won’t be the only impressive thing you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy there!
Obviously, if you’re a music fan, go ahead and secure a rare vinyl or a melancholic cassette that reminds you of your younger years or even childhood!
In Search of the Lost Present
When: December 7
Where: R. Sao Roque da Lameira 2040, 4350-307 Porto
How much: 17 EUR
Are you ready to help your child find Santa’s lost presents? You can do so during your holiday in Porto on December 7. Each parent will be accompanied by their child – or children – and will collect clues left by Santa Claus that will guide them to the mysterious, lost present!
It’s a great activity that will entertain the kids and prepare you, the parent, for a relaxed evening in the company of a delicious bottle of port wine!
