The Algarve is the lovely southern coastline of Portugal, filled with hidden marvels, surrounded by stunning golden beaches, picturesque towns and a blessed climate, the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable holiday destination.

The Algarve holds the secret of a rich palette of places, starting from dazzling wide beaches, amazing relaxing places, admirable architecture and culminating with historic and cultural cities, sprinkled with history and charming stories.

The European footprint can be sensed in the air in this magnificent region and the picturesque touch tailors its path as the finest artist among the multitude of landforms. It seems this piece of pure nature is easily but strongly becoming the perfect portrait of happiness. You simply fall in love with this sun kissed region, full of surprises and extraordinary events and creative activities, which broaden your mind and open your heart. These popular events are delighting the tourists all year long and make them dream about a happy living an entire life among these beautiful “walls” of harmony, pure beauty and joy.

1. The carnival of Loulé ( 10^th of February – 13^th of February )

The unique carnival of Loulé preserves the touch of the famous carnival of Rio de Janeiro, adorned with magnificent samba costumed figures, particularly energetic atmosphere and vibrating dances. Allow yourself to be carried away by colourful parades, good vibes and wonderful experiences among cheerful people in such a special and fascinating place from 10 February to 13 February 2018!

Starting around midday, it is worth arriving early to Loulé as bars, restaurants and streets quickly begin to fill. The great event takes place on Avenida José da Costa Mealha, where the most famous parade will take the shape of political and social satire, allegorical floats, samba schools, gigantones (giant puppets) and cabeçudos (figures with enormous heads made from paper mache)! It’s a magical experience not to be missed, so make sure your steps will lead you to this magical carnival for extraordinary moments near you dear ones!

2. The Walk- Run for International Women’s Day ( 11^th of March 2018 )

The Walk- Run for International Women’s Day wast first organized by the Algarve Oncology Association 9 years ago and its main purpose is to raise participants’ awareness about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as well as the hasty detection of breast cancer.

Through the Walk-Run, the importance of the woman is depicted and emphasized, as well as its position and role in the society. This year the 10th event will be held on 11 March, starting at Largo das Palmeiras square in Tavira.

3. The 10^th Portuguese Wine Show ( 1^st of March – 31^st of March)

The event organized by Confraria do Bacchus de Albufeira represents an outspoken admiration for the fine art of wine attainment and preparation.

The 10^th Portuguese Wine Show is coming with lots of special surprises this year, especially if taken into account the participation of around 110 producers from different national wine regions, from Trás-os-Montes down to the Algarve. It’s already rumored to be the best wine show by far. Among the schedules activities, there will also be wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, wine cocktail workshops and explanations on how wine bottles can be opened with fire and a sword.

4. Traditional parades of Quarteira ( 12^th of June – 28^th of June)

One of the most memorable and attracting parades of Popular Saints takes place in Quarteira. On the 12th, 23rd and 28th of June, hundreds of people come to enjoy the traditional parades, filled with spectacular dances, dazzling colours and exotic music.

The marchers take pride in entertaining the visitors and participants with amazing choreographies, based on the local culture and traditions and inspired by the sea, fishing, the popular saints – St Anthony, St John and St Peter – and the symbols associated with the celebrations such as arches, the basil plant, bonfires and balloons. Hundreds of participants, choreographers, make-up artists, costume designers are the soul who give life to such a beautiful Festival, which cannot be missed.

5. MED Festival of Loulé ( 28^th of June – 30^th of June )

MED is the vivid expression of multiple forms of art, also known as the World Music Festival.

This festival represents a cultural movement consisting of visual arts, music, theater, street animation, different shapes of self expression associated with a varied programme designed to reach every audience. This famous festival is waiting for everyone wishing to enjoy sound and taste, cultural experiences and interactive activities. Come and be delighted by this surprising power of art!

6. Al- Buhera Festival ( 1^st of July- 31^st of July )

Mesmerizing music, exquisite foods and drinks and a wide range of lovely handmade decorations, jeweleries and accessories with a cheerful atmosphere is waiting for you this year at Al- Buhera Festival.

Genuine crafted pieces representing the culture and traditions of this region, as well as gastronomic products such as desserts, cheese, honey and cured sausages represent the signature of this special festival, enriched with the presence of hundreds of curious and eager visitors.

7. Silves Medieval Fair ( 1^st of August- 31^st of August )

This fascinating and mysterious fair is focused and disposed around Silves Castle, the major attraction of this fair, with lots of surprises to reveal.

There will be 9 days of great entertainment, with craftsmen, merchants, tavern landlords, healers, entertainers, music and other surprises. This event attracts visitors from all over the world who travel to enjoy the Medieval costumes experience, taste Arab-influenced dishes, like for example couscous, harira and tagine, try Medieval drinks, dance and listen to Medieval music and enjoy the absolutely authentic Medieval atmosphere! You can’t miss it!

8. FOLKFARO- Faro International Folk Festival ( 1^st of August- 31^st of August)

Another spectacular festival that cannot be missed is Faro International Folk Festival, the biggest folklore festival in the south of Portugal!

The festival is the host of music and dance groups from six countries, in addition to several national groups looking for delighting people’s senses and entertaining passers-by with parades, activities and shows. You must attend to the only folk festival recognized internationally by the CIOFF® in the south of Portugal!

9. Portugal Masters ( 1^st of September – 30^th of September )

In September and for the 10th consecutive year, golf stars from around the world come to the Algarve to play in the Portugal Masters, very famous for its tempting and attractive prizes.

During the competition, besides the elite golf professionals, the Portugal Masters will welcome journalists from all over the world and over 40,000 spectators to witness the event. It’s a wide-ranging and highly specialized event, ready to welcome all the participants and visitors!

10. Algarve Classic Festival ( 19^th of October- 21^st of October )

Something that classic automobile lovers cannot miss is the touchy refined Algarve Classic Festival, dedicated to classic automobiles !!

The Algarve Classic Festival is not just for collectors who bring fantastic cars in the spotlight of Portugal, but also for those passionate about classic cars who will certainly be thrilled to witness and hear famous cars, which represented the main attractions in movies such as James Bond, Casablanca and even Fast and Furious.

Algarve just seem to hold the key to a successful holiday, fully enjoyed whilst exploring its beauty and entertaining events, which guarantee the perfect recipe for an unforgettable adventure.

This stunning wide region gathers all the resources to discover fascinating places to visit and new things to do, especially the well known Algarve Car Hire and Faro Airport Transfers, easy to reach and use whenever needed.

Don’t miss another day and come to live this marvelous adventure with your dear ones!