There’s something about June by the Portuguese seaside that feels a bit magical—late sunsets, salt air, and the sound of neighbours setting up tables right out on the street. For coastal towns like Póvoa de Varzim, the Festa de São Pedro or Saint Peter Festival isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s when the fishing community lets its hair down, and everyone else joins in.
As part of Portugal's Santos Populares festivals, the festival consists of a few nights where the routines go out the window. Streets dressed in streamers, friends and strangers sharing grilled sardines, and bands playing late enough that nobody bothers to check the time. Whether you’re just passing through or you haven’t missed a year since you were a kid, São Pedro’s all about dropping your guard and enjoying the best kind of summer chaos.
What is the São Pedro festival?
Held on the 28th and 29th of June, São Pedro Festival celebrates St. Peter’s Day in Portugal. It's one of those traditions that really gets coastal Portugal buzzing, especially in places like Póvoa de Varzim, where fishing runs deep in the local DNA.
It’s St. Peter who takes centre stage—the fishermen’s patron saint—so the festival naturally revolves around the sea and those who work it. You’ll spot everything from processions of brightly decorated boats gliding along the waterfront to street parades winding through packed neighbourhoods. There’s no shortage of food and music either. Expect open-air feasts with grilled sardines and plenty of vinho verde, plus folk bands playing late into the night.
The highlight is Noite de São Pedro, Saint Peter Night, when the party hits full swing. Streets and balconies are plastered with paper flowers and streamers, and families gather outdoors for communal meals that spill well into the early hours. It’s all topped off by a sky full of fireworks.
São Pedro Festival in Portugal: history
The festival has deep roots in the rhythms of Portugal’s fishing communities. For generations, Saint Peter was regarded as the guardian of the seas. Fishermen would seek his protection before heading out on risky Atlantic waters.
The day dedicated to him began simply, marked by church services and quiet rituals focused on gratitude and hope for safe returns. Over time, as these communities grew and traditions evolved, the festival became woven into the cultural life of coastal towns. It now reflects not just religious devotion but also a shared identity forged by working on—and relying on—the ocean.
Where to celebrate São Pedro Festival
Póvoa de Varzim
Póvoa de Varzim sits at the heart of São Pedro festivities in Portugal, with the whole town coming alive for days of celebration. Streets and fishing boats are dressed head to toe in decorations, and neighbourhoods compete in friendly rivalry to see who can outdo the rest. The highlight is the boat parade along the waterfront, followed by open-air feasting, fireworks, and the all-night “Noite de São Pedro” street party.
Porto de Mós
São Pedro here means colourful marches, music echoing in the air, and firework displays. Locals and visitors flock to the Tasquinhas for regional bites. Live acts like Bia Caboz, Nena, and Jimmy P keep the energy up until the 6th July. From equestrian displays to the local funfair, it’s a proper summer gathering.
Câmara de Lobos
Set by the bay, São Pedro in Câmara de Lobos is all about tradition and spectacle, starting with a parade and ending in fireworks. Throughout the week, expect popular marches, a vintage-style Sunday procession, and plenty of music from local and visiting artists.
Montijo
Montijo’s São Pedro features river processions, blessings for fishermen, and the burning of the barge. There are bullfights, parades, and no shortage of concerts, turning the town into a festival of tradition and river life from late June into July.
Felgueiras
In Felgueiras, the party centres on city concerts—big names like Calema and Nininho Vaz Maia—while the Flower Procession up Santa Quitéria hill brings everyone out with baskets of blooms. The weekend’s rounded off with folk bands, kids’ events, and the customary religious celebrations.
Macedo de Cavaleiros
Known for its São Pedro Fair, Macedo de Cavaleiros hosts a mix of trade stands, concerts, and mingling in the summer heat. Concerts from acts like Daniela Mercury and Wet Bed Gang draw crowds, making it more than just a commercial fair.
What else is happening in Portugal in June?
June is a month when Portugal barely pauses for breath, as the country bursts into celebration for the Santos Populares festivals. These festivals honour Saints Anthony, John, and Peter, transforming streets with music, bonfires, and colourful streamers.
Earlier in the month, all eyes turn to Lisbon for the Santo António Festival, probably the most famous celebration in Portugal. The neighbourhood of Alfama is filled with grilled sardines, parades, and street parties. Not long after, the party shifts north for the São João Festival in Porto, famous for its fireworks, Pimba music, and playful hammer tradition.
