“Portugal’s most charitable Christmas” returns to Quarteira next week with the 11th edition of Natal das Ruas (Christmas on the Streets) – for the first time running across two days, December 23 and 24.
“The aim is to offer a happier, more dignified and more hopeful Christmas to people living in socio-economic vulnerability,” said Loulé council.
Activities will take place in front of the Quarteira Municipal Centre (Centro Autárquico de Quarteira) and are open to everyone who wishes to take part. The programme includes music, social activities and community moments. Highlights include the Community Clothesline, where clothes and shoes are displayed and distributed, a Solidarity Christmas Tree and a Solidarity Dinner open to all on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Loulé council said that, this year, more organisations and individuals have joined what it described as “a true wave of solidarity”. In 2024, more than 300 meals were served. The council expects that number to rise this year.
The organisers stress that the event is open to homeless people, families in need, isolated elderly residents and anyone facing loneliness. All food, clothing and activities are free. Musicians, artists and other participants are also donating their time for free.
Mayor of Loulé Telmo Pinto highlighted the strength of the local community. “Together we are stronger and contribute to a more cohesive, inclusive and supportive community. We hope that this Christmas will be unforgettable for everyone who takes part,” he said.
Miguel Baptista, founder of Natal das Ruas, said the ambition remains clear. “With all this involvement, we aim to make Quarteira the most supportive place in Portugal, where the happiness of others is the stimulus for us to organise this great event,” he said.
Created in 2015, Natal das Ruas has grown steadily and is now regarded as one of the most significant solidarity movements in the Algarve.
Full programme:
December 23
4pm – FASHION SHOW, created by the brand KONCEITO.R and designer Cristina Guerreiro, presenting unique pieces created from used clothing, with a focus on storytelling, sustainability and innovation.
Live harp concert with HELENA MADEIRA
6pm – Live performance by DEMBA BALDÉ – a musician of Guinean origin, who presents his African-rooted sounds, with warm and original rhythms
7pm – BIKERS GROUPS bring together members of around 13 motorcycle clubs from the region in a solidarity action to deliver food and toys, which will also be distributed to the community. The food will be collected by the bikers themselves (representing their respective motorcycle clubs) from nearby supermarkets.
8pm – Presentation of the SOLIDARITY CHRISTMAS TREE, a five-metre-high tree that will serve as a structure for placing donations (used clothing, toys, food) and on the 24th will be decorated with Christmas sweets and Bolo-Rei, donated by various bakeries in Quarteira. This presentation will be attended by the mayors of Loulé and Quarteira, and will be marked by a special moment that will bring volunteers and bikers together around the tree. Daniel Kemish will perform a special song.
8.30pm – Live concert by POOR MAN’S BAND – This Rock & Roll-inspired band was formed in Scotland but has been based in the Algarve for several years. Its members play for the love of music, spreading joy and good energy to their audience, and perform mainly for charitable and humanitarian causes.
Special guest DJ LEONEL ALMEIDA will be providing music to liven up the venue throughout the day.
December 24
3pm – CHARITY CLOTHESLINE – Exhibition and distribution of clothing and footwear collected from previous donations along Rua das Lojas in Quarteira. This activity will take place in the street throughout the event.
6pm – OPENING OF THE SPACE – Distribution of collected toys to children and parents with children; Opening of the amusement park, with inflatables and other activities available.
8pm – SOLIDARITY DINNER – The free Christmas dinner will be served to all those who wish to share it in community and enjoy this moment, whether alone or with family. The menu will be ‘Bacalhau com Todos’ (Cod with Everyone) and includes soup/starters, bread, main course (with vegetarian option), drink and dessert.
From 6pm, you can enjoy various LIVE CONCERTS with the following musicians/bands: BRUNO TEIXEIRA & JEAN WILL, RICKY BARRADAS, TUKA MOURA, BETO KALULU TRIO, DANIEL KEMISH
Throughout the day, a HAIRDRESSER service will be available on site for free haircuts, provided by MICA CABELEIREIRO – QUARTEIRA.
