Carnival In Portugal 2025

This year, Carnival 2025 will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 4. In Portugal, Carnival is considered a public holiday in some municipalities, while in others, it remains optional for private companies. Granting a day off is a common practice across both sectors.

 Carnival has pagan origins and is celebrated on a different date each year, but always on a Tuesday. The word "Carnival" comes from the Latin carnis levale, meaning "farewell to meat." Since ancient times, it has been a time of feasting and disguise. Over time, the Church established Lent, beginning the day after Carnival, marking a period of fasting known as Ash Wednesday.

 In Portugal, this festival is enjoyed by people of all ages. Many schools and associations organize parades where children dress up in colorful costumes inspired by their favorite heroes and fictional characters. Carnival Tuesday is also marked by satirical performances that serve as social criticism of politicians and public figures. The parade of Cabeçudos, with its giant-headed puppets, is one of the highlights, especially at the famous Torres Vedras Carnival. The festivities also include traditional food, music, and dance.

However, since not all municipalities and businesses grant a public holiday, some cities celebrate Carnival more extensively than others. Here are some of the most iconic Carnival celebrations in Portugal:

This year, the Torres Vedras Carnival celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Portuguese revolution of April 25, 1974. Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage, its history dates back to 1574 and is known as the "most Portuguese Carnival in Portugal." Featuring its own King and Queen, it stands out for its majestic Cabeçudos (or Gigantones) parades and theatrical atmosphere. 

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With the theme "Folia & Açucarada", this Carnival takes place near the Alcobaça Monastery, where chefs and pastry makers create costumes inspired by cakes and sweets. The festivities include children's and senior parades, nighttime parties, family-friendly activities, and the traditional Burial of the Entrudo.

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Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this is Portugal’s most authentic Carnival. Highlights include Caretos à Solta, the Marafonas parade, and the Burning of the Entrudo. The Entrudo Chocalheiro roams the village streets, engaging the crowd with loud noises and folklore.

The largest Carnival in Northern Portugal blends Portuguese and Brazilian influences. Located near the sea, it features its own King and Queen of Carnival and involves around 2,000 performers. 

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• Carnival of Sesimbra: February 23 – March 4
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• Carnival of Estarreja: February 22 – March 4
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• Carnival of Sines: February 28 – March 5
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• Carnival of Funchal: February 26 – March 9
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