The Algarve is the most exciting holiday destination in Portugal. It’s where families and groups of friends come in search of unforgettable moments. Whether on stunning beaches, by refreshing pools, on lively terraces, or at vibrant events, summer in the Algarve is when memories are made. If you’ve yet to decide when to take your holiday, consider planning around the summer events already lined up in the region. Here are our top picks for 2025. Dive into the fun and make the most of the hottest season of the year!
Photo by Joey Thompson – Unsplash
1. Colours of Land and Sea | 17 May to 31 August | Portimão
The Portimão Museum presents Colours of Land and Sea, a retrospective of the work of José Vila (1944–2021), originally from Mexilhoeira Grande. Known for his informal painting style, Vila used color, form, and texture freely to express deep emotions and personal experiences. This exhibition is a sensory journey through his creativity, reflecting his deep connection to the land and sea of the Algarve.
Free entry. For more details, visit the Portimão Museum’s official website.
• Book your holiday villa with a pool in Portimão for a perfect family getaway.
2. “PLANTING AFFECTION” Exhibition | 14 May to 12 July | Lagos
The result of an artist residency launched in January 2025, this exhibition involved the local community across several parishes in Lagos.
The project included walks and collaborative workshops in ceramics and plant sculpture, exploring the link between people, the landscape, and the medicinal properties of plants. An unmissable event at the Lagos Cultural Centre (exhibition room no. 0). Free entry from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.
• Ever thought of staying right in the heart of Lagos? Have a look at our recommendation.
3. Cinema on the Line – Colectivo Pátio | 7, 14 & 21 June | Lagos
Over three evenings in June, Lagos becomes an open-air cinema with the return of Cinema no Estendal. This traveling short film festival celebrates neighborhood life, the creative use of public space, and the arts, with films projected onto bedsheets strung up in unexpected spots. Each screening takes place in a different parish of the city, fostering community spirit and sparking discussion on today’s social issues.
Screenings begin at 9:30 pm and entry is free, making this a truly accessible cultural experience.
For full programming and locations, visit Colectivo Pátio’s website.
• After the films, unwind at this apartment with a shared pool near Praia da Luz.
4. Afronation | 9–11 June | Portimão
Afronation celebrates its 5th anniversary on Praia da Rocha in Portimão this year, with a star-studded lineup. Artists such as Burna Boy, Davido, and Dexta Daps will light up the iconic beach with Afro beats, energy, and unforgettable performances.
• While you're there, explore Praia da Rocha and stay in this apartment with access to a shared pool.
5. Arte Doce | 23–27 July | Lagos
For the past 36 years, Lagos has hosted Arte Doce, and this year is no exception. Big-name acts include Maninho (23rd), Os Quatro e Meia (24th), Bárbara Tinoco (25th), Ivandro (26th), and Sara Correia (27th). Alongside live music, there’ll be sweet showcases, workshops, and much more. Entry is free, with the venue open from 6 pm to midnight. Learn more at the Arte Doce 2025 website.
• Enjoy the concerts and relax in this villa with a private pool.
6. Lota Cool Market | 16–20 July | Portimão
Back for its 10th edition, Lota Cool Market returns to the Portimão riverside. Explore emerging businesses, many with a focus on sustainability, handmade crafts, and unique design and art pieces. Live music and street food complete the experience.
• Dive into the cool vibe and enjoy a family holiday in this amazing villa in Alvor.
7. Sardine Festival | 5–10 August | Portimão
One of the Algarve’s most anticipated events, the Sardine Festival takes place along Portimão’s riverside. Expect an abundance of traditional Algarve cuisine – with sardines as the star – along with crafts, regional sweets, and local products. As always, the concert lineup is impressive. In 2024, highlights include Rui Veloso (5th), Pedro Abrunhosa (6th), Diogo Piçarra (7th), Nena (8th), Para Sempre Marco (9th), and Resistência (10th).
• Enjoy it all while staying in this lovely apartment with a pool, just minutes from Alvor Beach.
8. Fatacil | 22–31 August | Lagoa
Held in a large open venue packed with food stalls, local products, and crafts, Fatacil is one of the region’s landmark fairs. This year’s lineup includes Fernando Daniel (22nd), Festa da M80 (23rd), Badoxa (24th), Nininho Vaz Maia (25th), Wet Bed Gang (26th), Van Zee (27th), Quim Barreiros (28th), Matias Damásio (29th), Delfins (30th) and Mariza (31st).
9. Silves Medieval Fair | 8–16 August | Silves
For nine days, Silves is transformed into a medieval wonderland, recreating the atmosphere of the old city of Xilb – the Algarve’s capital during the Muslim era. One of the largest historical events in the country, the Silves Medieval Fair takes over the town center and its iconic castle. Expect parades, tournaments, fire shows, oriental dances, falconry, and historical reenactments reflecting the Christian Reconquest and the region’s Islamic heritage.
Open daily from 6 pm to 1 am. Entry costs range from €2 to €4.
• Round off your day of medieval adventures with a well-earned rest in this fantastic apartment in Alvor.
10. Banho 29 | Night of 28 to 29 August | Lagos
Banho 29 is a local tradition in Lagos where people take a midnight swim on the night of 28 August, a ritual believed to be as beneficial as 29 regular baths. Passed down through generations, this late-summer celebration usually includes concerts (still to be announced) and a vintage swimsuit contest in the town center. Midnight swims take place on local beaches.
• Join the Banho 29 celebrations while staying in this charming apartment with a private garden in Lagos.
Summer festivals are on their way to the Algarve!
Make the most of your holiday and take in the many events happening across the western Algarve. Count on Casas do Barlavento to find a safe and comfortable holiday rental.