Aljezur is getting ready for its annual Sweet Potato Festival, expected to draw around 15,000 visitors and sell about 12 tons of the famous local tuber.
The event will run from Friday to Sunday (November 28 to 30) at the town’s multiuse centre, shining the spotlight on the local Lyra sweet potato variety, famous for its unique flavour and texture.
According to José Gregório, president of the Aljezur Sweet Potato Producers Association, this year’s festival may match or even exceed sales from previous years thanks to strong demand.
The Lyra variety, which has been protected with a Geographical Indication (IGP) since 2009, will be on sale for €2, below typical market prices, Gregório told Lusa news agency.
Despite recent heavy rains in the Algarve, the sweet potatoes have retained their usual quality, the association boss said, adding that farmers harvested early to avoid the bad weather, ensuring a top-quality crop. Gregório also noted that growing interest in sweet potatoes has encouraged more local farmers to cultivate the crop, providing an important boost for the local economy.
The festival will feature around 150 exhibitors, including local artisans and producers of traditional Algarve products. Guests can sample dishes made with sweet potatoes such as couvada, Arrifana octopus, feijoada (bean stews), sausages, bread, pastries, and even sweet potato ice cream. Drinks like local liqueurs, aguardente, and sweet potato caipirinhas will also be available.
Organised by the association with the support of the municipal council, the festival runs from 12pm to midnight, with free entry and parking.
