Portugal Carnival de Torres Vedras 2024
Traditional drums and bagpipes, large-scale allegorical floats, groups of masked revellers—carnival as it used to be for centuries
Dates: February 9–14, 2024
Torres Vedras carnival has strong traditional components like allegorical floats, groups of masked revellers, typical figures wearing large carved masks, and, of course, traditional drums and bagpipes. There is also the pre-presentation of the carnival during August, which involves four days of festivities, allegorical floats, and lively Zés Pereiras drumming groups. Now, let's get into the details!
The program
The program starts on the first day with one of the most anticipated events: Corso Escolar, which makes hundreds of students from the municipality's educational institutions parade through the city center. This program celebration lasts until Ash Wednesday. The day continues with the Mask Ball tradition in the Multipurpose Pavilion of the Regional Exhibition Park. It brings together senior institutions from the municipalities of Torres Vedras, Lourinh, Cadaval, Arruda dos Vinhos, Sobral de Monte Agraço, Mafra, and Alenquer.
Parties
In the next days of the festival, Dr. Machado Santos Square, Sagres Square, and PALADIN Square all feature entertainment from approximately 10:00 pm to 4:00 am. Additionally, on these nights, Arraial Fest will have a stage in Dr. Alberto Manuel Avelino Square, turning into a real party hub. The essence of this event isn't to spectate it from aside but to become an integral part of it. It's an old Portuguese tradition to participate in all the revelry, rubbing shoulders with people in the parade.
As you can tell, the program is super diverse, and you can explore it further on the event's official website. It also contains information about tickets (prices should kick off at 8€), parking, and more. In addition, don't forget to book your accommodation in advance as the city gets extremely busy during the festival dates. Other than that, you're good to go!