Portugal celebrates autumn through regional gastronomy and traditional festivals

Portuguese gastronomy autumn festivals regional tourism traditional festivals Alentejo

Various regions across Portugal are hosting seasonal festivals and cultural events to celebrate autumn traditions, gastronomy, and local heritage.

In Santarém, the 45th National Gastronomy Festival is underway at Casa do Campino, featuring regional specialties from municipalities like Alpiarça, Golegã, and Almeirim. The event includes showcookings, wine tastings, and traditional culinary demonstrations.

Other regional highlights include:

• The Alentejo tourism board has launched a new campaign, ‘Alentejo não se explica. Descobre-se com vagar’, to promote off-season travel focusing on nature and gastronomy. • In the mountain villages of Serra da Estrela and Gardunha, the ‘Autumn Route’ features chestnut festivals, medronho tastings, and guided hikes. • Arganil is preparing for the 38th Feira Franca in São Martinho da Cortiça, featuring musical performances and a traditional magusto. • Alvito will host its historic Santos e Frutos Secos Fair, a tradition dating back to 1295, with approximately 60 exhibitors.

Additionally, Marvão recently participated in the 18th International Medieval Tapas and Pinchos Contest, while Valença prepares for the annual Santos de Cerdal Fair in early November.