Ferragudo is preparing to celebrate the feast day of its patron saint, Our Lady of the Conception, between August 14 and 17, with the main event on the 15th, when over a thousand people are expected.
Starting each evening at 21:30 in the town centre, musical entertainment kicks off on the 14th with a tribute to Xutos & Pontapés and a performance by DJ Licota, followed by Paulo and Carlos Coelho on the 15th.
The festivities proceed on the 16th with Ricardo Sintra, a tribute to singer Marco Paulo and a performance by the Companhia Limitada band, and culminate on the 17th with the TVN band.
On August 15, after the solemn mass at 17:00, the traditional procession takes place, enlivened by the Portimonense Philharmonic Band.
The procession continues through the parish streets to the Shipwrecked Assistance Institute (ISN), where it embarks on a sea route along the Arade River to Praia Grande.
At the Lifeguard Station, the boats and fishermen are blessed before returning by land, along Infante Santo Street, to the main church.
After sunset, downtown Ferragudo transform into a grand festival, with a fair and entertainment that lasts well into the night.
The Ferragudo Parish Council and the local parish are responsible for organising the procession, with logistical support from the municipality of Lagoa and collaboration from the parish associations.
A ritual anchored in local history
The main church dedicated to Our Lady of Conception, built in the 16th century, was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and stands out today for its collection of centuries-old images and votive offerings, inspired by the faith of fishermen who sought protection here before setting out to sea.
This temple, located near the Fort of São João do Arade, bears witness to the ancient connection between community, sea, and devotion, and symbolises the continuity of a tradition deeply rooted in Ferragudo’s identity.
