Autumn has finally arrived! It's that colorful time when the tree leaves turn vibrant shades before falling, the air becomes cooler, the sun sets earlier, and time seems to slow down. Portugal is a country rich in options to make the most of the new season and discover various incredible corners ;)
To help you, here's a list of activities that, in my opinion, are almost mandatory to do in Autumn... here we go!
Saint Martin's Day and Chestnut Festival
Autumn, especially the month of October, is marked by the famous Saint Martin's Day in Portugal. In mid-autumn, people used to enjoy a bountiful harvest, food, and celebration in the Portuguese countryside. It was called the "summer of Saint Martin," and on November 11th, families celebrated with chestnuts and traditional festivities!
Today, Saint Martin's Day is still celebrated in many ways in various countries. Even though much of the tradition has faded away, you'll still find chestnut vendors in most Portuguese cities.
This day is one of the celebrations that mark autumn, and tradition dictates celebrating the date with a "magusto," which involves roasted chestnuts. The tradition is so popular that Saint Martin's Day is also remembered as Magusto Day.
*Source: Canva
Autumn Events in Portugal
Autumn gives rise to various cultural and traditional events. As I mentioned earlier, Autumn has been characterized by prosperity for many years, as many traditional Portuguese products start to yield their harvest. Therefore, the Portuguese don't sit idle when it comes to celebrating:
October:
October Fair: Vila Franca de Xira – Early October
Santa Iria Fair: Faro – Mid-October
Festival of Discoveries: Lagos – Late October
National Gastronomic Festival: Santarém – Late October
Francesinha Festival: Porto – Late October
Halloween: National – October 31st
November:
All Saints' Day: National – November 1st
Saint Martin's Fair: Golegã – Early November
National Horse Fair: Golegã – Early November
Visit Sintra and Its Monuments
Sintra is always a good idea, don't you think? But in Autumn, the entire landscape transforms into a real fairy tale. All the monuments are surrounded by unique fauna and flora, and in Autumn, the mist envelops the charming historic village of Sintra, creating a true cinematic experience!
*Source: Unsplash
Enjoy the Empty Beaches of Algarve and Costa Alentejana
Beaches in Autumn? Yes, you read that right! Even though summer is over, Autumn, at least until the end of October, is a season where you can still enjoy the best beaches in Portugal, and the best part is that they'll be much emptier since it's not peak season! The atmosphere is calmer, there are fewer people around, and you can experience tranquillity. As for the weather, temperatures are still high, and the wind helps to keep things cool.
Gerês is undoubtedly a must-visit for all nature lovers, and in Autumn, the entire landscape transforms. Located in the northern region of Portugal, about 100 km from Porto, the national park is a great weekend plan to do with friends ;)
Did you enjoy the suggestions? Now you have your guide to explore Portugal in this season and make the most of all the cultural events!
Would you like to learn a bit more Portuguese vocabulary related to Autumn? Click HERE and find out everything you need to become a true local in the coming months!
See you there,