Summer

Festivals

Top Summer Festivals in Portugal for Expats

Brenda L.

6/3/2025

•

min read

Blog

Portugal - Living

Index

What are the summer festivals in Portugal in June?
What are the summer festivals in Portugal in July?
What are the summer festivals in Portugal in August?
What are the summer festivals in Portugal in September?
What about Santos Populares in Portugal?
Festivals survival guide

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Beyond the beaches and sunshine, Portugal's summer scene explodes with music, culture, and non-stop festivities.

If you're an expat or newcomer seeking to immerse yourself in the Portuguese culture, there's no better way than exploring the vibrant festival circuit. From underground electronic beats to massive rock anthems and traditional celebrations, there's a rhythm for every soul.

This guide covers the hottest festivals and events happening throughout the summer of 2025 in Portugal. Get ready to dance under the Portuguese sun and stars!

What are the summer festivals in Portugal in June?

June is the month when Portugal truly awakens. The weather warms up, the days lengthen, and the festival season intensifies. Here's a chronological rundown of the must-attend events:

Rádio Faneca (Ílhavo)

Dates: June 6-8, 2025
Location: Various locations in Ílhavo
Genre: Eclectic mix
Vibe: A free, community-focused event with a diverse lineup.
Why go? A wonderful way to experience a local festival with a relaxed atmosphere and discover new Portuguese artists.

NOS Primavera Sound Porto (Porto)

Dates: June 12-15, 2025
Location: Parque da Cidade, Porto
Genre: Indie, Rock, Electronic
Vibe: A major international festival with a stellar lineup, attracting music lovers from all over the world.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Charli XCX, Central Cee, Jamie xx, Deftones, HAIM, Beach House, Fontaines D.C., Turnstile, TV On The Radio, Cap'n Jazz, Michael Kiwanuka, and many more.
Why go? A top-tier festival experience with a diverse range of genres and a beautiful park setting.

⚠️ Accommodation in Porto fills up quickly, so book well in advance. Consider staying in nearby Vila Nova de Gaia for more options.

Waking Life (Crato, Alentejo)

Dates: June 18-23, 2025
Location: Crato, Alentejo (near a lake)
Genre: Underground Electronic
Vibe: A unique and immersive festival focused on sustainability, art, and community.
Why go? Escape the mainstream and experience a transformative event with cutting-edge music, art installations, and workshops.

⚠️ This festival is a bit off the beaten path, so renting a car or campervan is highly recommended.

MEO Kalorama (Lisbon)

Dates: June 19-21, 2025
Location: Parque da Bela Vista, Lisbon
Genre: Pop, Electronic, and indie.
Vibe: A major Lisbon festival with a mix of international headliners and up-and-coming artists.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Pet Shop Boys, FKA Twigs, The Flaming Lips (performing "Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots"), Jorja Smith, Azealia Banks, Father John Misty, Róisín Murphy, Boy Harsher, Model/Actriz, Kelly Lee Owens, and Damiano David.
Why go? A convenient city festival with a strong lineup and a vibrant atmosphere.

⚠️ Take advantage of Lisbon's public transportation to get to and from the festival.

Lisb-On Jardim Sonoro (Lisbon)

Dates: June 27-29, 2025
Location: Jardim Keil do Amaral (Monsanto Park), Lisbon
Genre: Electronic (Techno, House)
Vibe: An intimate electronic music festival in a beautiful garden setting.
Why go? Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in quality electronic music in a unique environment.

Evil Live (Lisbon)

Dates: June 27-29, 2025
Location: Estádio do Restelo, Lisbon
Genre: Metal (Heavy Metal, Nu-Metal, Death Metal)
Vibe: A heavy metal festival with a mix of legendary bands and rising stars.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Judas Priest, Korn, Slipknot, Municipal Waste, Opeth, Death Angel, Eagles of Death Metal.
Why go? A must-attend event for metalheads looking for a high-energy experience.

Festival Jardins do Marquês – Oeiras Valley (Oeiras, near Lisbon)

Dates: June 28 - July 7, 2025 (select dates)
Location: Palácio do Marquês de Pombal, Oeiras
Genre: Varied (Brazilian, Jazz, World Music)
Vibe: A sophisticated festival combining music and gastronomy in a beautiful palace garden.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Paralamas do Sucesso, Simone, José González, The Wailers, Cat Power (performing "Sings Dylan '66").
Why go? A unique cultural experience with a diverse lineup and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.

Festival MED (Loulé, Algarve)

Dates: June 26-29, 2025
Location: Praça da República, Loulé
Genre: World Music
Vibe: A celebration of world music and culture in the heart of the Algarve.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Vieux Farka Touré, Fulu Miziki, Ferro Gaita, Paulo Flores, Systema Solar, Tarwa-N-Tiniri, Carmen Souza, Carminho.
Why go? A chance to explore the Algarve beyond the beaches and experience a diverse range of global sounds.

What are the summer festivals in Portugal in July?

July brings the heat, both in temperature and in festival intensity. Here's a look at the key events:

Sumol Summer Fest (Ericeira, near Lisbon)

Dates: July 4-5, 2025
Location: Ericeira Camping Park, Ericeira
Genres: Hip-Hop, Reggae, Electronic
Vibe: A young and energetic festival combining music with surf culture and beach vibes.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): MC Cabelinho, Morad
Why go? A budget-friendly option for enjoying music, surfing, and the beautiful Ericeira coastline.

⚠️ Book your camping spot early, as this festival is popular with young people.

Sound Waves (Praia de Esmoriz, near Porto)

Dates: July 5, 2025
Location: Praia de Esmoriz, Ovar
Genre: Techno, Hard Techno
Vibe: An intense, 20-hour rave on the beach for hardcore techno fans.
Why go? Experience a high-energy dance party with pure, raw beats.

⚠️ Stay hydrated and pace yourself!

Ageas Cooljazz (Cascais, near Lisbon)

Dates: July 2-30, 2025 (select dates)
Location: Parque Marechal Carmona & Hipódromo Manuel Possolo, Cascais
Genre: Jazz, Blues, Soul, and funk.
Vibe: A sophisticated and intimate festival in a beautiful setting, attracting a discerning audience.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Benjamin Clementine, Rita Vian, Seal, Ezra Collective, Jordan Rakei, Gilsons, Slow J, Tindersticks, Ganso, and Masego.
Why go? Enjoy world-class jazz and soul in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

⚠️ Cascais is a charming coastal town with plenty to offer, so consider extending your stay.

Afro Nation (Praia da Rocha, Portimão, Algarve)

Dates: July 9-11, 2025
Location: Praia da Rocha, Portimão
Genre: Afrobeats, Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Dancehall, and R&B.
Vibe: The world's biggest Afrobeats festival, bringing global superstars to the sunny beaches of the Algarve.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Burna Boy, Davido, Tems, Booba, Mary J. Blige, Chris Brown.
Why go? Experience the best of African music and culture in a stunning beach setting.

⚠️ July is peak season in the Algarve, so book accommodation and transportation well in advance.

NOS Alive (Lisbon)

Dates: July 10-12, 2025
Location: Passeio Marítimo de Algés, Oeiras (near Lisbon)
Genre: Pop, Indie, Rock, and electronic.
Vibe: One of Portugal's biggest and most popular festivals, with a consistently strong lineup.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Olivia Rodrigo, Justice, Nine Inch Nails, Kings of Leon, Bright Eyes, Future Islands, St. Vincent, Foster the People, FINNEAS, Erol Alkan, Capicua, Girl in Red, Sammi Vigi, Sam Fender, Dead Poet Society.
Why go? A top-tier festival experience with a diverse range of genres and a vibrant atmosphere.

⚠️ The festival grounds are easily accessible by public transportation from Lisbon.

MEO Marés Vivas (Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto)

Dates: July 18-20, 2025
Location: Former Madalena Camping Park, Vila Nova de Gaia
Genre: Rock, Pop, Latin
Vibe: A popular festival in the Porto area with a diverse lineup appealing to all ages.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Scorpions, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Miguel Araújo + Os Quatro e Meia, Pedro Sampaio, Ozuna, Hybrid Theory, Marcus King, Luís Trigacheiro, Buba Espinho.
Why go? Enjoy a mix of genres and a beautiful riverside setting with views of Porto.

⚠️ Take a stroll along the Douro River and sample some port wine while you're in Vila Nova de Gaia.

FMM Sines (Sines, Alentejo Coast)

Dates: July 21-26, 2025
Location: Porto Covo & Sines
Genre: World Music
Vibe: A renowned world music festival showcasing diverse sounds from across the globe.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Julieta Venegas, Max Romeo, Rokia Traoré, 47Soul, Orchestra Baobab, Youssou N'Dour, Luca Argel, and Nação Zumbi.
Why go? Discover new cultures and sounds in a beautiful coastal setting.

Rock no Rio Febras (Guimarães, near Braga)

Dates: July 25-26, 2025
Location: Parque Fluvial de Briteiros, Guimarães
Genre: Rock, Local Talent
Vibe: A small, free festival showcasing local talent and rock music.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): The Dandy Warhols, José Pinhal Post-Mortem Experience
Why go? Support local music and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in a beautiful natural setting.

Luna Fest (Coimbra)

Dates: July 31 - August 2, 2025
Location: Praça da Canção, Coimbra
Genre: Varied
Vibe: A festival with a varied line-up.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Mão Morta, Marta Ren, Taxi, The Darts, Landrose, 999, Biznaga, Agressive Girls, The Pages, or os MAQUINA
Why go? A chance to explore the city of Coimbra

Vagos Metal Fest (Vagos, near Aveiro)

Dates: July 31 - August 3, 2025
Location: Parque Municipal de Quinta do Ega, Vagos
Genre: Metal (Black Metal, Hardcore, Death Metal, Thrash Metal)
Vibe: A metalhead paradise with a heavy lineup and a dedicated fanbase.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Mayhem, Gorgoroth, Black Flag, Hatebreed, Dying Fetus, Destruction.
Why go? Unleash your inner metalhead and experience a weekend of intense music and camaraderie.

What are the summer festivals in Portugal in August?

August is all about soaking up the rays of summer and enjoying the diverse range of festivals on offer.

SonicBlast Fest (Âncora, Minho Coast)

Dates: August 6-9, 2025
Location: Praia da Duna do Caldeirão, Âncora
Genres: Stoner Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Hardcore
Vibe: A coastal festival with a focus on heavy, psychedelic sounds and a laid-back atmosphere.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Fu Manchu, Circle Jerks, Emma Ruth Rundle, Earthless.
Why go? Enjoy a quirky combination of music and beach vibes in a stunning coastal location.

MEO Monte Verde (Ribeira Grande, Azores)

Dates: August 7-9, 2025
Location: Praia do Monte Verde, Ribeira Grande, Azores
Genre: Varied
Vibe: A gathering of music.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Silence 4, Seu Jorge, Slow J, and Piruka
Why go? A chance to explore the Azores

NEOPOP (Viana do Castelo)

Dates: August 7-9, 2025
Location: Forte de Santiago da Barra, Viana do Castelo
Genre: Electronic (Techno, Underground)
Vibe: A renowned electronic music festival in a historic fort setting.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Ben Klock, Charlotte de Witte, Goldie, Lake Haze, Nina Kraviz, Aurora Halal, BIIA, Colin Benders.
Why go? Experience cutting-edge techno in a unique and atmospheric location.

Festival Mar Me Quer (Portimão, Algarve)

Dates: August 13-15, 2025
Location: Zona Ribeirinha, Portimão
Genres: Hip-Hop, Pop
Vibe: A festival in Algarve.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Da Weasel, Dillaz, Bispo, Plutonio, Calema
Why go? A chance to explore the Algarve

Vodafone Paredes de Coura (Paredes de Coura, Minho)

Dates: August 13-16, 2025
Location: Praia Fluvial do Taboão, Paredes de Coura
Genre: Indie, Rock, Alternative
Vibe: One of Portugal's oldest and most respected festivals, known for its alternative lineup and beautiful natural setting.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Vampire Weekend, Franz Ferdinand, Air, King Krule, Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory, Black Country, New Road, DIIV, MJ Lenderman & The Wind.
Why go? Experience a legendary festival in a stunning riverside location.

O Sol da Caparica (Costa da Caparica, near Lisbon)

Dates: August 14-17, 2025
Location: Parque Urbano, Costa da Caparica
Genre: Portuguese Music (Hip-Hop, Rock, Samba, Fado)
Vibe: A celebration of Portuguese music and culture on the beach.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Da Weasel, Plutonio, Dillaz, Matias Damásio, Nininho Vaz Maia, LON3R JOHNY, Wet Bed Gang, Sippinpurpp.
Why go? Immerse yourself in Portuguese music and enjoy the beach vibes of Costa da Caparica.

CA Vilar de Mouros (Caminha, Minho)

Dates: August 21-23, 2025
Location: Vilar de Mouros, Caminha
Genre: Rock, Varied
Vibe: One of the oldest festivals in the Iberian Peninsula, with a focus on rock music and a historic atmosphere.
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): Da Weasel.
Why go? Experience a legendary festival with a rich history and a beautiful setting.

Him Dub Festival (Rapoula do Côa)

Dates: August 25-31, 2025
Location: Rapoula do Côa
Genre: Reggae, Dub, Electronic
Vibe: A festival of community
Why go?: Experience a festival of community.

Barrelas Summer Fest (Vila Nova de Paiva, Viseu)

Dates: August 29-30, 2025
Location: Vila Nova de Paiva, Viseu
Genre: Varied
Vibe: A festival with a varied line-up.
Why go? A chance to explore the city of Viseu

What are the summer festivals in Portugal in September?

As summer fades, there are still a few festivals to enjoy during September.

Festival F (Faro, Algarve)

Dates: September 4-6, 2025
Location: Vila Adentro, Faro
Genre: Portuguese Music
Vibe: A festival of Portuguese music
Why go? A chance to explore the city of Faro

MEO Sons do Mar (Funchal, Madeira)

Dates: September 5-6, 2025
Location: Parque de Santa Catarina, Funchal
Genre: Varied
Vibe: A festival with a view of the Funchal Bay
Lineup Highlights (Confirmed): NAPA, Miguel Araújo, and Calema
Why go? A chance to explore the island of Madeira

Feiras Novas (Ponte de Lima, Minho)

Feiras Novas is a vibrant celebration of Minho culture, with folk music, traditional dances, parades, crafts, and local cuisine. The fair attracts thousands of visitors each year and offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich heritage.

Dates: September 6-9, 2025 (typically the second weekend of September)
Location: Ponte de Lima, Minho Region.
Genre: Traditional, Cultural
Vibe: One of Portugal's oldest and largest traditional fairs, dating back to the 12th century.
Why go? Experience the authentic traditions of the Minho region and enjoy a lively cultural celebration.

⚠️ Ponte de Lima is a charming town with a beautiful Roman bridge. Take some time to explore the town and its surroundings.

What about Santos Populares in Portugal?

No guide to Portuguese summer is complete without mentioning the ’Santos Populares’ (Popular Saints) festivals.

This isn't just one event; it's a series of celebrations honoring St. Anthony (Santo António), St. John (São João), and St. Peter (São Pedro) throughout June.

Key dates & locations for Santos Populares festivals

Santo António in Lisbon (June 12-13): The biggest and most famous celebration, honoring the patron saint of Lisbon and lovers.
São João in Porto (June 23-24): A vibrant celebration in Porto, known for its fireworks, hot air balloons, and plastic hammers!
São Pedro in Póvoa de Varzim (June 28-29): A traditional celebration in Póvoa de Varzim, a coastal town north of Porto.

Santos Populares traditions

Street Parties: Every neighborhood transforms into a giant street party, with music, food, and dancing.
Pimba Music: Get ready to dance to pimba, a unique Portuguese genre characterized by catchy melodies and often humorous lyrics.
Grilled Sardines: A must-try culinary experience! Grilled sardines served on bread are a staple of the Santos Populares.
Marchas Populares: Witness impressive carnival parades with thematic competitions between different city districts.
Casamentos de Santo António: A heartwarming tradition where multiple couples get married in a collective ceremony.
Manjerico: Buy a ’manjerico’ (basil plant) and give it to your loved one with a romantic poem.
Plastic Hammers (Porto): Be prepared to be playfully hit on the head with a plastic hammer during the São João celebrations in Porto!
Bonfires (Porto): Jumping over bonfires is a tradition believed to bring health and good luck.

Festivals survival guide

Embrace the Chaos: The parties are all about spontaneity and letting loose.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking and dancing.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay close attention to your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
Pace Yourself: The celebrations can last all night, so take breaks and stay hydrated.
Wear Fresh Clothes: Summer can get quite hot in Portugal. Opt for light clothing.
Stay Hydrated: Again, it will be hot, so keep a water bottle always close by.

Final words

Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a newcomer looking to dive into the Portuguese cultural landscape, thesummer of 2025 promises an unforgettable journey.

Dance to the rhythm of Afrobeats on the beach, lose yourself in the underground techno scene, celebrate traditional saints with lively street parties, or discover new sounds at a world music festival—the possibilities are endless.

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