Easter in the Algarve: Tradition meets Spring Sunshine!
Experiencing festivities anywhere new is always, well, an experience, isn’t it? Whether you stumble across an unexpected parade or seek out something entirely different to what you’re used to, watching (and even joining in) on traditions somewhere far-flung makes us feel more part of that place. It connects us emotionally, both to the place itself and the people in it. And it’s that connection that’ll stick in your memory. The weird costumes, unexpected music, or loud parade – they’re an outward manifestation of a people’s inner workings, and getting a glimpse of that is always magical.
So, let’s get stuck into the Easter in the Algarve – whether you’re coming for a bit of spring sun and balmy temperatures (which usually hover around 20oC) and want to see something different or you’re ready to dive headfirst into Portuguese tradition.
The Algarve: So Much More than Just Its Beaches
The Algarve’s rich history often comes as a surprise to those who come purely for the beaches and stunning scenery, but between Moorish rulers and 15th-century explorers, the region’s certainly got a few stories to tell. Most recently, the Catholic religion has played an active role in shaping the architecture and traditions in Southern Portugal, so it should come as no surprise that Easter in the Algarve is widely celebrated– but where, and how? Let’s dive in!
Traditional Easter Celebrations in the Algarve
Palm Sunday
Kicking off Easter week is Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos), when churches across the Algarve hold special blessings attended by parishioners who bring intricately woven palm fronds to be blessed by priests that are then displayed throughout the week.
Holy Week
The week between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday is known as Holy Week (Semana Santa), and processions recreating the Stations of the Cross are often held during this time. You’ll be able to find these across the Algarve, each with unique features, including in nearby Silves and Pêra, as well as the eastern Algarve cities of Olhão and Tavira, where large gilded floats depicting scenes from Jesus’ life are carried down the streets – an event that dates back to 1789. Several processions can also be followed around the Albufeira area, in Paderne and Guia. In São Brás de Alportel, the “torch festivities” make their way along whimsically decorated flower carpets made up of three tonnes worth of flowers as the population shouts “hallelujah” in unison, and in Loulé, the “Sovereign Mother” festival begins when the huge statue of the Sovereign Mother is carried from her sanctuary to the Church of São Francisco in Loulé on Easter Sunday, and culminates two weeks later when thousands of people gather to follow the statue as it’s walked up to the striking hilltop church to a backdrop of fireworks.
Easter Celebrations in Lagos
If you choose to stay at LUX MARE over easter, you can pop down to either Santa Maria or São Sebastião Churches for a glimpse at some of the local traditions, including a blessing of the palms and procession from Santa Maria Church to São Sebastião Church on the morning of Palm Sunday, and then a Stations of the Cross procession ( Via Sacra) back the other way starting at 3 pm from São Sebastião church, including the Way of the Cross at Praça de Armas at 9 pm, rounding off with a mass at Santa Maria church for the Lord’s Supper and washing of feet.
What to Eat at Easter in the Algarve
Almonds
Symbolising life and renewal, almonds are widely used around Eastertime in the Algarve (and almond blossom may still be visible, although it tends to dust the hillsides a bit earlier in the year). From baked almond treats of all kinds to the sugar-coated almonds traditionally given to children before Easter eggs became widespread, and even savoury dishes, these treats symbolise new life and rebirth.
Traditional Easter “Folar” bread
No Easter celebration in the Algarve is complete without moist folar Easter bread, which you’ll be able to find at bakeries and markets across Lagos and the wider region.
A sweet, fluffy, layered bread or a sweet cake with fennel, it’s often studded with hard-boiled eggs and symbolises fertility and rebirth.
If you fancy an escape into the inland Algarve, only an hour away from LUX MARE, you’ll be able to experience true tradition and hilltop views in São Marcos da Serra. In fact, the 27th edition of the São Marcos da Serra fair promises plenty of opportunities to eat your fill of folar, among other delicacies. Set to be held between the 18th and 20th of April 2025, the fair is itself a celebration of folars in all their shapes and flavours, accompanied by other local and regional producers of sweets, liqueurs, tree strawberry brandy (medronho), and other specialities as you take in concerts, religious celebrations, choirs, folk singing, dance performances, and entertainment for the whole family.
Easter Lunch
When it comes to traditional Easter lunch, roast lamb graces many easter tables across the Algarve region, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and local herbs, and served alongside rice dishes and seasonal vegetables.
Whether you want to whip up your own feast with locally-bought ingredients (we’d recommend a trip to the market!), you want a private chef to serve you up some specialities, or you’d like us to book you a table for a memorable meal, our concierge is on-hand to take care of the details, so make sure you let us know exactly what you’re after. And that also goes for your activities – whether you’re planning a trip inland, need to get around in Lagos, or want an itinerary laid out, we’re here to ensure the Algarve exceeds your expectations on every level.
So, are you ready to experience the true Algarve at Easter, in all its wonderful glory?
