Easter is just days away, and several towns in the Algarve will be celebrating the festive season by hosting events dedicated to what is arguably Easter’s most famous treat – the Folar.
For those unaware, Folar is a traditional Portuguese Easter bread (some consider it to be a cake, depending on the variety), often enjoyed during the Holy Week. It’s typically slightly sweet, soft, and sometimes flavored with cinnamon or fennel. In many regions, it’s decorated with one or more hard-boiled eggs nestled in the dough, symbolising rebirth. There are also savoury versions, especially in the north of Portugal, made with layers of cured meats like chorizo and presunto.
Olhão, for example, is home to one of the most popular varieties in the Algarve, boasting several layers of caramalised sugar and cinammon and covered in a sugary glaze.
Several fairs focusing on Folar are held in the Algarve this time of year.
In inland Silves, São Marcos da Serra will host its own ‘Feira do Folar’ from Friday to Sunday (April 18-20) in front of the local church, featuring stalls selling a wide range of sweets and local products. There will also be live performances every day. Festivities kick off at 9am on Friday and at 11am on Saturday and Sunday, ending at 9pm on Friday and Saturday and at 8.30pm on Sunday.
In the neighbouring borough of Albufeira, Guia will also host its own event ‘Prova do Folar’ on Easter Sunday (April 20). Starting at 4pm at the local sports pavilion, the event’s highlight is the unveiling of a giant Folar, weighing a whopping 250 kilos, which is served every year to everyone in attendance. There are also stalls selling all kinds of local products as well as live entertainment.
Further east in Castro Marim, another Easter-themed fair named ‘Feira do Folar e Produtos Regionais’ will take place on Saturday at 10am at Praça 1º de Maio.
Many other events focusing on the Easter treat will take place throughout the region, so be sure to keep an eye open for the closest near you.
