Carnival in Portugal is a vibrant and colourful celebration that takes place in the days leading up to Lent, typically in February or March. The exact dates vary each year, depending on the Catholic liturgical calendar. Carnival is a time of exuberance, music, dance, and intricate costumes, offering a final opportunity to indulge in festivities before the solemn period of Lent begins.
Even though the weather in Portugal can still be chilly at this time of year, the temperatures are bound to rise as the streets fill with the sounds of music, samba dancers, elaborate costumes, and the iconic caricatures like Cabeçudos and Matrafonas. You don’t need to travel to Rio de Janeiro, Venice, or Tenerife to experience one of the world’s most exciting carnivals—Portugal has much to offer.
Read on to discover 5 of the best Carnival destinations in Portugal and get ready to join the fun in 2025!
Where is the best Carnival in Portugal?
Although Carnival is celebrated nationwide, some towns are particularly famous for their extravagant festivities. These are our top picks:
Carnaval do Funchal, Madeira
Dates: 26th February - 9th March 2025
Carnaval do Funchal in Madeira is one of Portugal’s most spectacular Carnival celebrations. Every year, the island’s capital bursts into life with dazzling parades, colourful costumes, and infectious rhythms. With warm weather and a lively atmosphere, Funchal is the perfect sun-soaked destination for Carnival.
The festival’s highlights include the Grande Cortejo Alegórico (Grand Allegorical Parade), a stunning display of themed floats and samba dancers, and the Cortejo Trapalhão (Clumsy Parade), a playful, satirical procession.
While you're there, indulge in local flavours—sip Vinho da Madeira, enjoy a refreshing poncha, and savour espetadas, Madeira’s famous grilled meat skewers. Whether for the parades, the atmosphere, or the flavours, Carnaval do Funchal promises an unforgettable celebration.
Carnaval de Loulé, Faro
Dates: 2nd - 4th March 2025
In southern Portugal, Carnaval de Loulé stands out as one of the country’s most important and vibrant Carnival celebrations. Located in the Algarve, Loulé enjoys a milder climate, making it an ideal destination for an outdoor party. But rain or shine, nothing stops the festivities—the streets always come alive with music, colour, and joy.
Each year, Carnaval de Loulé embraces a unique theme, setting the tone for the parades and performances. These themes range from historical and cultural references to playful and imaginative concepts. Local groups, schools, and organisations showcase their creativity through elaborate floats and costumes, making every edition a visual spectacle.
If you're heading to Loulé for Carnival, take the opportunity to explore more of the Algarve. Nearby destinations like Vilamoura, Albufeira, and Portimão offer stunning beaches, great nightlife, and a taste of the region’s laid-back charm.
Carnaval de Ovar, Aveiro
Dates: 8th February - 4th March 2025
Carnaval de Ovar, held in the Aveiro District, is one of Portugal’s most traditional and authentic Carnival celebrations. With deep roots in local customs and cultural heritage, it has long been a highlight of the region’s festive calendar.
Locally known as "Carnaval Entrudo," the event embraces the spirit of pre-Lenten revelry before the solemn season of Lent. True to its traditions, Ovar’s Carnival is famous for its satirical floats, witty costumes, and socially charged performances, offering a playful yet sharp commentary on current events and societal issues.
More than just a celebration, Carnaval de Ovar is a lively fusion of history, creativity, and community spirit, making it a must-experience event in Portugal.
Carnaval de Alcobaça, Leiria
Dates: 28th February - 5th March 2025
Carnaval de Alcobaça is often called the "most Brazilian" Carnival in Portugal, thanks to its electrifying energy and samba-filled celebrations. The heart of the festivities is a massive tent set up in front of the iconic Alcobaça Monastery, where thousands of people gather to dance to the rhythms of live samba bands and top DJs. The vibrant atmosphere, lively music, and non-stop partying make it a major draw for both locals and tourists.
If you're heading to Alcobaça for Carnival, take the opportunity to explore some nearby gems. Leiria, Óbidos, and Caldas da Rainha are just a short drive away, offering a mix of medieval charm, cultural heritage, and relaxing thermal baths—perfect for unwinding after the celebrations.
Carnaval de Torres Vedras, Lisbon
Dates: 28th Febrary - 5th March 2025
Carnaval de Torres Vedras, held just 40 km from Lisbon, is one of Portugal’s most renowned and vibrant Carnival celebrations. Known as the biggest and “most Portuguese” Carnival, it blends deep-rooted traditions with a creative and satirical twist, making it a truly unique experience.
The undisputed stars of the festival are the Matrafonas (also called Maria Cachuchas)—men dressed in flamboyant drag, adding humour and extravagance to the party. Another iconic sight is the Cabeçudos, performers wearing oversized, caricatured heads that bring a playful and theatrical touch to the streets.
Famous for its sharp political and social satire, Carnaval de Torres Vedras transforms the city into a stage for witty and bold commentary. Elaborate floats, costumes, and performances poke fun at current events, turning the celebration into a mix of revelry and cultural expression.
Dating back to the 19th century, the festival fuses centuries-old satirical traditions with Christian customs, creating an unmatched spectacle of creativity, laughter, and community spirit.
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