The São João Festival is rooted in centuries-old traditions, with origins in ancient pagan rituals celebrating the summer solstice, later adapted to honor Saint John the Baptist. Over time, the festival has embraced new symbols—colorful hammers, paper lanterns, and intricate cascades—while always preserving its spirit of renewal, joy, and togetherness.

On the night of June 23, 2025, Porto once again transformed into one of Europe’s most vibrant stages for the annual São João Festival. This year, the city was graced with warm, pleasant weather—ideal for lively gatherings in the streets. Only a brief spell of rain passed through, adding a touch of excitement as a few paper lanterns were extinguished prematurely in the sky, but never dampening the spirits of the revelers.

By the time the much-anticipated fireworks show began, the skies had cleared and the air was balmy, inviting thousands to line the banks of the Douro River. For the first time, the fireworks display stretched from the Arrábida Bridge all the way to the iconic Luís I Bridge, creating a dazzling spectacle visible from every corner of the riverside. This new, extended format made the experience even more inclusive, with stunning views and a festive atmosphere felt throughout the city.

The traditional sardine grills, accompanied by potatoes and other local delicacies, took place in an atmosphere of pure joy. The scent of grilled sardines mingled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the playful tapping of plastic hammers—martelinhos—on friends’ and strangers’ heads, a hallmark of São João. Neighbors, friends, and visitors shared tables and stories late into the night, embodying the true spirit of Porto.

This year, the brief rain shower only served to highlight the resilience and good humor of Porto’s people. Between fleeting showers and the warmth of summer, the city once again proved why São João remains one of Portugal’s most authentic and unforgettable celebrations. As the last fireworks faded and the music drifted into the early hours, it was clear: rain or shine, São João in Porto is always a night to remember.

A brief summer rain brought unexpected charm to São João 2025, as Porto’s festive spirit shone through. Extended fireworks along the Douro River and lively street celebrations made this year’s celebrations unique..

St. John's 2025: Balloons, Fireworks, and a Touch of Summer Rain

Embracing this honor on behalf of the Municipality of Porto, the Councilwoman for Tourism and Internationalization, Catarina Santos Cunha, emphasized the city's ongoing commitment to elevating tourism standards in a sustainable and harmonious manner. She spoke of the Confiança Porto program, a steadfast effort supporting economic operators to attain and acknowledge levels of excellence, particularly in the realm of tourist accommodations.

Cunha passionately articulated Porto's dedication to maintaining its reputation as a warm and inviting city, tailored to meet the diverse demands of tourists. In line with this commitment, she unveiled the Tourist’s Manifest on World Tourism Day, celebrated on the 27th of September. The manifesto aims to engage and enlighten tourists about the commendable practices to uphold while exploring the vibrant city.

The esteemed World Travel Awards ceremony unfolded in Batumi, Georgia, uniting global leaders in the tourism sector for an evening of recognition and celebration. This initiative serves as a beacon, honoring and applauding outstanding contributions to the world of travel and tourism, adjudicated through the discerning votes of industry professionals, media, and discerning consumers.

In the 2022 edition of these distinguished awards, Porto triumphed, seizing the titles of Europe’s Leading City Destination and, on the global stage, World’s Leading City Destination. This triumph follows a previous accolade in 2020, when the city was hailed as Europe's Leading City Break Destination, cementing Porto's legacy as a prime destination for travelers seeking an enriching and captivating experience.

Porto's undeniable allure once again triumphs at the prestigious World Travel Awards. After securing the title of Europe’s Leading City Destination in 2022, the resilient city of Porto has yet again shined on the grand stage, earning the esteemed recognition of Europe’s Leading City Break Destination for 2023 in the renowned "Tourism Oscars."

Porto: Leading City Break Destination 2023 (Europe)

Porto's travel and gastronomy are once again on the lips of the world: it is the "City of the Year" in the awards decided by the readers of the British magazine Food and Travel.

“This is yet another award that recognizes the value of the Porto brand in the international context", comments, in a statement, Luís Pedro Martins, president of Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal.
"The city of Porto is once again to be congratulated", underlines the official, referring: "it reinforces our position in the world".

Food and Travel, based in London, has an international footprint and has a 25-year publishing history. Its aim is to take readers "on a gastronomic journey around the world". It is published by Green Pea Publishing, a "small independent publisher".

In the "race" for City of the Year, the most famous cities were nominated, which may have played in favor of Porto: certainly many votes were shared by Barcelona, Edinburgh, London, Melbourne, New York, Paris, Vancouver and Vienna, but Porto achieved primacy.

In the awards of the magazine dedicated to gastronomy, wines and travel, Porto beat the candidates Barcelona, London, New York or Paris. “The city of Porto is once again to be congratulated”.

Porto: City of the Year, by Food and Travel

Next Sunday, the Stadium of Laranjeiras in Paredes will host the crucial encounter between União Paredes and AD Marco 09 on June 1st, 2025, in a match that will determine promotion to 

. A draw is sufficient for Paredes whereas the team from Marco de Canaveses needs the win. Following renovations completed in 2022, the stadium offers modern facilities including covered stands and updated technical areas, already tested during events such as under-21 national team training sessions. For tourists, the most practical way to reach the venue is via the urban train on the Marco Line, connecting Porto (São Bento or Campanhã stations) to Paredes in approximately 30 minutes, with tickets from €2 and up to 8 daily departures. Paredes railway station, integrated into the Douro Line, is located just 10 minutes walking from the stadium, providing direct access to the event.


Beyond the sporting excitement, the match offers an opportunity to explore Paredes, a historic city featuring monuments and gastronomy highlighted by roasted kid goat and lupins. The stadium, located in the urban center, is surrounded by restaurants and rural accommodations, making the experience complete for visitors seeking both sporting thrills and cultural immersion in northern Portugal's authentic traditions.

Don't miss the decisive clash between União Paredes and AD Marco 09 on June 1st—a promotion-decider that could rewrite club histories. With fierce rivalry, high stakes, and a sold-out atmosphere, this match promises to cap off the season.

Paredes: Last Opportunities to Catch Football This Season

Prior to kickoff at the Estádio do Dragão, FC Porto honored midfielder 

 as he concluded his playing career at age 37. The Rio Tinto native, who came through Porto's academy system, received a commemorative plaque from President André Villas-Boas during a brief ceremony. 

Castro, who captained Porto B this season, enjoyed three separate spells with the club throughout his career, contributing to six trophy wins including the 2011 Europa League. His farewell was marked by warm applause from supporters who appreciated his professionalism and dedication during his time with the Dragons.

FC Porto delivered an good performance in their final league fixture, dispatching Nacional 3-0. 

The hosts wasted no time asserting control, with 

 heading home after just 44 seconds from Martim Fernandes' pinpoint cross. This early advantage set the tone, though Nacional threatened through counterattacks and earned a 12th-minute penalty that 

 brilliantly saved-the goalkeeper's 12th career penalty stop.

The match remained competitive until the second half when Porto found their rhythm. The turning point came in the 69th minute when 

 was brought down in the box by Zé Vítor, who received his second yellow card. 

The Spanish forward converted the penalty himself, notching his 25th goal of the season and demonstrating his value as Porto's primary attacking threat. Coach Martín Anselmi praised Samu's consistency.

The highlight of the afternoon arrived in the 83rd minute through 

, Porto's emerging star. The 18-year-old collected possession at midfield, accelerated past two defenders with remarkable close control, and finished with precision into the bottom corner. This solo effort-his seventh goal in nine appearances-showcased why scouts from across Europe have been monitoring his progress.

Porto's defensive organization also deserves mention, with the backline limiting Nacional to just two shots on target after the penalty save. The midfield partnership of Eustáquio and Varela controlled possession effectively, completing 94% of their passes and allowing Porto to maintain pressure throughout the second half.

With the Liga season concluded, FC Porto now turns attention to the 

 in the United States (June 15–July 13). The Dragons will compete in Group A against Palmeiras, Inter Miami, and Al Ahly, beginning their campaign in New York on June 15. Despite finishing third in the Portuguese league, below expectations, this global tournament offers Porto a valuable opportunity to reset and showcase their capabilities on the international stage, with a €16.7 million participation bonus providing additional motivation.

Young star Rodrigo Mora dazzles with solo effort while Samu reaches 25-goal milestone. Emotional pre-match farewell honors midfielder André Castro's retirement after 10 years as a blue and white.

Porto Crushes Nacional 3-0 in Season Finale

From May 15 to 18, 2025, the rugged slopes of Serra de Santa Justa in northern Portugal will transform into a living tribute to Roman history during the inaugural 

 festival. This free-admission event, organized by Valongo Municipality, resurrects the region’s two-millennia-old identity as 

 (Long Valley)-a critical gold-mining hub for the Roman Empire. Archaeological evidence confirms Valongo hosted one of the largest Roman mining complexes, with underground tunnels spanning over 20 km², now recognized as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status.

, where artisans demonstrate ancient techniques like coin minting and helmet forging. The arena will echo with gladiatorial combat reenactments, while nightly spectacles such as 

 blend fire dancing and projected visuals to recount the area’s mining history. Interactive workshops allow participants to craft pottery replicas or Roman oil lamps, bridging past and present through hands-on learning.

Situated just 10 km east of Porto, Valongo offers seamless access via a 21-minute suburban train ride from São Bento Station. The festival site features a 

 food court serving Roman-inspired fare like 

 (herb cheese) and wines made using ancient viticulture methods. While accommodations in nearby Porto cater to all budgets, day-trippers can extend their journey with guided tours of Santa Justa’s preserved mine shafts or hikes along 540-million-year-old Paleozoic trails.

Mayor José Manuel Ribeiro underscores the event’s mission: “We’re reactivating history to inspire sustainable futures. These mines once fueled an empire-now they teach us about resource stewardship.” With twilight torch processions, artisan markets, and theatrical street performances, Valongo Romano transcends nostalgia, offering a dynamic dialogue between antiquity and modernity. As the final fire show 

 illuminates the Serra on May 18, visitors will carry home more than memories-they’ll inherit a story etched in stone, ore, and flame.

: Serra de Santa Justa, Valongo, Portugal

: Regular trains from Porto (€2–3), ride-sharing options (€3 from Porto center)

Serra de Santa Justa transforms into a living Roman settlement this May 15-18, showcasing Valongo's heritage as the Empire's crucial mining center. Visitors will journey 2,000 years back in time through gladiatorial spectacles, ancient craftsmanship demonstrations, and torchlit celebrations of Portugal's golden past.

Roman Gold: Portugal's Ancient Valley Awakens

Despite relentless rain and an earlier power outage that delayed preparations, the excitement among Porto’s students remains unshaken for Queima das Fitas, one of Portugal’s most iconic academic festivals. Marking the end of the academic year and honoring graduating university students, the event blends age-old traditions with modern celebrations, drawing thousands of participants from across the country and abroad. This year’s festivities kick off at midnight on Sunday with the Monumental Serenata, a moving academic fado concert on Avenida dos Aliados, followed by the Blessing of the Folders Mass, a special ceremony led by Porto’s bishop to honor graduating students.

The week-long celebration culminates at the Queimódromo, near the city park, where nightly concerts and student parties take place. Notably, 30% of this year’s festival budget has been allocated to security measures, including medical teams and increased police presence, reflecting the scale of an event that attracts over 400,000 people. Public transportation will run extended hours, and free shuttle buses will be available, ensuring safe and easy access for everyone wishing to join what locals proudly call the country’s biggest academic party. The highlight for many is Tuesday’s Academic Parade, where students march through the city in traditional capes and colored ribbons representing their faculties.

Queima das Fitas has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1920s as a rite of passage for Porto’s university students. The name, which means “Burning of the Ribbons,” refers to the symbolic burning of colored ribbons that represent each faculty, marking the transition from student life to professional adulthood. Although the tradition was interrupted during Portugal’s dictatorship, it was revived and has since become a cornerstone of Porto’s cultural identity.

For international visitors, Queima das Fitas offers a unique glimpse into Portuguese student life, featuring academic fado music (distinct from Lisbon’s fado), local food and beer festivals, and a vibrant atmosphere that takes over the city. Rain or shine, the students’ determination embodies the resilient spirit of Porto’s academic community, making this festival a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the city’s youthful energy and traditions.

  The city’s biggest student festival overcomes weather setbacks. A week of music, rituals, and academic pride awaits locals and visitors alike.

Porto’s Queima das Fitas: Tradition and Resilience Amid Rain

The FC Porto women’s team has secured promotion to the Portuguese Second Division after an emphatic 8-0 victory over Varzim, clinching the achievement with two matches left in the season. In their very first senior season, the Dragons have recorded 22 wins in 22 games, boasting impressive numbers: 204 goals scored and only 7 conceded, demonstrating total dominance in the Third Division.

Coach Daniel Chaves expressed his emotion at achieving this milestone in the club’s debut season, highlighting the significance of making history for FC Porto. He also emphasized that the team’s ambition remains high, with the next goal being to secure the division title and maintain their unbeaten record until the end of the campaign.

The immediate success of FC Porto’s women’s project fulfills the management’s objective of rapid progression, with sights already set on reaching the top tier, Liga BPI, in the coming years. The club is reinforcing its commitment to the growth of women’s football, investing in a solid structure and a highly competitive squad.

The team’s promotion has been officially recognized by the Portuguese Football Federation and is drawing increasing support from fans, as seen in the historic match at Estádio do Dragão, which set a new national attendance record for women’s football. FC Porto is determined to keep growing and to establish itself as a leading force in the women’s game in Portugal.

Blue and white team makes history in their debut season. A perfect campaign signals ambitious plans for the future of women’s football.

FC Porto Women Promoted to the Second Division

Bolhão Market in Porto is marking the arrival of spring with a packed schedule of events throughout April, blending gastronomy and culture. Highlights include cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and wine experts, such as Rui Ribeiro, Anselmo Mendes, and Josy Delgado, who will showcase traditional Portuguese and vegetarian recipes, as well as tastings of the famous Alvarinho wines. Families are invited to participate in creative workshops, making paper carnations and posters to honor Portugal’s Carnation Revolution, a symbol of freedom.

On the cultural front, the market launches the "Bozes Boadoras do Bolhão," a new monthly literary event giving a platform to emerging authors outside the mainstream. Music lovers can enjoy mini-concerts by a brass quartet from the Porto Casa da Música Symphony Orchestra, celebrating the institution’s 20th anniversary, and the weekly "Há Fado no Mercado" sessions every Wednesday in the market’s restaurants.

The program also features a culinary journey through Italian cuisine with expert Stefania de Sena and a contemporary dance performance as part of the Dias da Dança Festival (DDD), taking place on the market’s grand staircase. With this diverse agenda, Bolhão Market reaffirms its role as a cultural and gastronomic hub, inviting locals and visitors alike to celebrate Easter, spring, and freedom in a lively and authentic setting.

Porto’s iconic Bolhão Market welcomes April with a vibrant program of culinary workshops, cultural events, and family activities, celebrating Easter, spring, and Portuguese traditions. Visitors can enjoy food tastings, live music, creative workshops, and innovative literary gatherings throughout the month.

Enjoy Easter at Bolhão Market

MEO Marés Vivas returns to Vila Nova de Gaia from July 18 to 20, 2025, with a stellar lineup that reaffirms its status as one of Portugal’s top summer music festivals. Having reported from Marés Vivas in recent years, we can assure you: this is always a vibrant experience, filled with unique moments and an infectious energy that brings together music lovers of all ages.

The opening day, July 18, features legendary acts like Scorpions and Xutos & Pontapés, joined by American blues-rock sensation Marcus King, recognized as one of the brightest talents in contemporary music. The night also includes Hybrid Theory, a world-renowned Linkin Park tribute band celebrated for their faithful and electrifying live performances.

On July 19, the festival celebrates both Portuguese and international music. Thirty Seconds to Mars headline the day, alongside national favorites Miguel Araújo and Os Quatro e Meia. The lineup is enriched by Luís Trigacheiro and Buba Espinho, leading voices of the new generation of fado and traditional music, and the "Dois Pares de Botas" project, which brings together Nena and Joana Almeirante in a fusion of pop and country.

July 20 brings global rhythms and contemporary sounds, with performances by Pedro Sampaio, Ozuna, and Calema, as well as rising hip-hop and R&B star Nenny. Tickets are already on sale at MEO stores and meoblueticket.pt, and are expected to sell out quickly. If you’re looking for a festival where music, diversity, and excitement come together, Marés Vivas is truly an event not to be missed!

Scorpions, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Ozuna, and top Portuguese artists headline three days of music in Vila Nova de Gaia. We’ve reported from Marés Vivas in recent years and can confirm: this is a summer event you don’t want to miss!

MEO Marés Vivas 2025: Festival Unveils Full Lineup

The Rose Garden in Porto, located at the Crystal Palace Gardens, has reopened to the public following a significant renovation project. Visitors are now invited to explore this beautiful space, where iconic features have been carefully restored and the garden’s original charm has been brought back to life.

The refurbishment, funded by a 158-thousand-euro investment by the municipality, included upgrades to the paving, drainage systems, and walls, alongside major work on the pergolas. Several of the garden’s landmarks—such as the Pelican Fountain, two symbolic torches, the goose fountain, and the frontispiece displaying Porto’s coat of arms—were also restored to their former glory.

In addition, new hedges have been planted with resilient species that are better equipped to resist pests and diseases. Subtle design elements have been reintroduced to recapture the garden’s original layout. This revitalized setting offers both Porto’s residents and visiting travelers a tranquil spot to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the city’s heritage. Come and immerse yourself in the splendid atmosphere of this newly renewed garden.

Bask in the renewed grandeur of this iconic space in the Crystal Palace Gardens. Stroll past restored fountains, revitalized hedges, and welcoming paths that invite visitors from around the world

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Porto’s Queima das Fitas: Tradition and Resilience Amid Rain

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