Thousands of candles are lit during the event
Lagoa is lighting up once again. From Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6, the historic heart of the Algarve town will be transformed into a glowing show of culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship as it celebrates the 10th edition of the “Mercado de Culturas… à Luz das Velas” (Market of Cultures… by Candlelight).
Over four “unforgettable nights”, more than 60 artisans from across the world will share their customs, flavours, crafts, and performances at the São José convent and its surrounding candlelit streets.
This year’s milestone edition will shine a spotlight on UNESCO-recognised Intangible Cultural Heritage, bringing together global traditions that have stood the test of time.
Portugal’s own traditions will be represented at the event, from the iconic Fado music and traditional falconry to Cante Alentejano, the polyphonic singing of the Alentejo, and Figurado de Estremoz, traditional clay figurines also from the Alentejo. But many other beloved international cultural expressions will be showcased as well, including Morocco’s Gnawa music and couscous preparation, Spain’s Flamenco music and Argentina and Uruguay’s Tango dancing, Guinea’s Sosso-Bala Balafon instrument, Iraq’s Maqam music, Turkey’s Mevlevi Sema ceremony, Armenia’s Duduk instrument, Ecuador and Peru’s Zápara culture and Brazil’s Samba de Roda.
The standout feature of the event remains its incredible candle displays, with thousands of candles lighting the streets in nightly rituals starting at 8.30pm, forming 40 glowing symbols inspired by diverse cultural expressions recognised by UNESCO.
For foodies, the convent’s cloisters will turn into a living kitchen, celebrating the art of couscous preparation, while exhibitions in the convent’s gallery will feature “Expressions of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” and a special show on the “History of Fado.”
The event, which is free to visit, has established itself over its 10-year history as one of the Algarve’s main summer events.
According to Lagoa mayor Luís Encarnação, the milestone edition is more than a celebration – it is a “reaffirmation of Lagoa’s commitment to culture, global dialogue and the shared heritage of humanity.” He added that this edition, inspired by UNESCO’s intangible cultural treasures, hopes to be an invitation for reflection and to inspire peace through art, tradition and a meeting of cultures.
