Portugal is known for its sun, fun and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Located in the southern Algarve, Faro encapsulates all that the country has to offer and more. There’s truly no better way to experience the city than by visiting during one of Faro’s many annual festivals, when it comes alive with added flavour. Read on for more about the many fabulous festivals before packing your bags and heading for the coast.
Carnival
Carnival takes place during the week leading up to Mardi Gras and features parties, parades, music and more. The unique children’s fancy dress parade takes place between the Jardim Manuel Bivar and Praça da Pontinha, while the nearby town of Estoi holds another children’s parade in the streets around the newly-renovated Estoi Palace. On the Saturday of Carnival, visitors can ride bikes through the city centre, as the city is opened up for cyclists.
Easter
Like Carnival, Easter is extra special in Faro. The area is known for its Folar Fairs festival, where the streets are filled with music and other entertainment. Don’t miss out on trying the traditional folar Easter cakes, which are topped with a hard-boiled egg – shell included! Visit the nearby town of Tavira to check out the Palm Sunday procession that has been happening each year since the city’s Carmelite Monks introduced it in the eighteenth century.
FolkFaro
Nine days and over 300 artists from nine different countries? You don’t have to be a math wizard to know that FolkFaro is sure to be a one-of-a-kind event. This festival in August showcases traditions and folklore from Portugal and other nations. With music, dance and theatre shows both inside and outdoors, this festival is sure to be one for you’ll remember for years to come.
Ria Formosa Festival
Octopus, shrimp and paella, oh my! If culinary adventures are your scene, do not miss out on the Ria Formosa Festival. This summer event highlights the best of Portuguese cuisine, including mouth-watering paella, octopus salad and fish galore. If you still have room in your stomach after all that food, you can wash it all down with a drink from one of the many local breweries. As you feast, enjoy a variety of music and dance performances that also take place at the festival. Come hungry and get ready for a fun (and delicious!) time.
How to Get There
No one likes spending any more time than necessary waiting at the airport. Faro taxi services can be booked in advanced to save time and give you peace of mind. Whether you want to check out your accommodation first or head straight to a festival from the airport, Faro taxi services will easily get you to wherever you need to be. Book these services when you book your flights and once you land at the airport, Faro taxi drivers will get you to your destination quickly while you sit back and enjoy the ride.
Whether you prefer to dip your toes into traditional Portuguese folklore at FolkFaro, taste all the delicacies the Ria Formosa Festival has to offer or party in the streets during Carnival, Faro’s annual festivals are sure to keep even the most adventurous of travellers entertained. Make the most of your trip by pre-booking transport services before you even leave for the airport. Faro taxi drivers will take you quickly to your prearranged destination, no matter if you choose to head to your accommodations first or jump into your festival of choice right away. Bring on the festivities!
Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers in various countries across the globe. If you’re looking for an affordable way to get from the airport, Faro taxi drivers with Shuttle Direct can make sure that you get to where you need to go swiftly and safely.
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