The Iberian Peninsula’s “traditions and sounds” will be the theme of this year’s candlelit market
Thousands of candles depicting dozens of symbols will be lit every day during Lagoa’s ‘Mercado de Culturas à Luz das Velas’, a candlelit market which will take place at the São José convent and surrounding streets from July 4 to 7.
The event will bring together over 60 artisans of different cultures and religions from around the world, who will come together in harmony to showcase their “traditions, flavours and arts” to thousands of visitors.
The “traditions and sounds of the Iberian Peninsula” will be the theme of this year’s market, which will feature performances by several artists from Portugal and Spain: Deira (folk music from Galicia and Asturias); Milo Ke Mandarini (folk music from Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura); Estampa Flamenca (Flamenco group from Cádiz); Emilio Villaba & Sara Marina (medieval music from the Iberian Peninsula); Al Mouraria (traditional Portuguese music and Fado); Fado Corrido (traditional Fado group); Brasa Dourada (traditional music from Alentejo); Helena Madeira (traditional Portuguese music) and Gigantones & Zés Pereiras (a traveling entertainment group from Braga).
Another highlight promises to be an exhibition of ‘Iberian Masks’ from the district of Bragança (Portugal) and the province of Zamora (Spain), which will be on display at the São José convent.
Iberian food will also be showcased at the event, as the convent’s cloisters will be “transformed into an Iberian Tavern”, selling popular Iberian snacks and tapas.
However, the market is arguably best known for its unique atmosphere, created by the thousands of candles which are lit every evening during the event at 8.30pm.
Admission is free.
