One of the Algarve’s biggest summer gastronomic events is just around the corner
Olhão is preparing to host another edition of its ‘Festival de Marisco’ (Seafood Festival), which will take place at Jardim Pescador Olhanense between August 10 and 14.
The event is famous for serving the freshest seafood directly from the nearby Ria Formosa estuary, although it is also popular for hosting concerts by famous Portuguese artists and showcasing regional cuisine and handicraft.
There will be no shortage of traditional dishes to enjoy, from oysters, clams and cockles sourced locally to ‘cataplanas’ (stews served in clam-shaped pots) and paellas, all featuring the area’s famous seafood.
“Promoting one of the region’s greatest gastronomic assets, the Ria Formosa and the town of Olhão, and boosting the local economy have been the main objectives of the Seafood Festival since its first edition,” the local council says in a statement to the press.
“Over the years, it has become one of the liveliest events of the year for the local community, and the event that most attracts families who choose the Algarve for their summer holidays to Olhão,” it adds.
Musical performers this year include Afro pop duo Calema (August 10), Fado singer Ana Moura (August 11), rapper Plutónio (August 12), Faro-born pop sensation Diogo Piçarra (August 13) and Brazilian guitarist/singer Maninho (August 14).
The 2023 edition of the festival attracted 30,000 people to Olhão.
Doors open every day at 7.30pm. Tickets are already on sale, with daily tickets costing €10 (for adults) and €5 (for children aged 7 to 12). Prices for five-day passes range from €22,50 (for children aged 7 to 12) to €45 (for adults).
