EVENTS

White Night

Loule Carnival is Portugal's oldest and said to be the inspiration for the famous one in Rio. Colourful, themed float parade with dancers/performers from Brazil. March 1-4
Series of Hiking Festivals mostly in late winter/early spring. See walkingalgarve.com
MED Festival. Takes place in the old town quarter of Loule, a four day celebration of world music over five different soundstages. Previous headliners have included Buena Vista Social Club, Sly & Robbie, Ana Moura, Amadou & Mariam, Jimmy Cliff and Horace Andy (above). Lineup is usually announced only a fortnight before. June 26-29
Afro Nation. Claimed to be the world's biggest celebration of afrobeat. In Portimao July 9-11
Algarve Classic Festival. Vintage racing cars compete on Portimao's Formula One racetrack. October 23-26
Portimao Sardine Festival. Music and, yes, Portugal's famous sardines! Aug 5-10
Festival do Marisco de Olhao. Feasting on a variety of superfresh seafood in huge outdoor eating area next to soundstage for music. 2025 date to be announced.
Loule's White Night street party (left). When everyone dresses in white. End of summer celebration that annually fills the streets of Loule with revellers. Free admittance. August 30