Portuguese festivals are home to idyllic locations, homegrown talents, and permanently buzzing vibes. From the mighty Rolling Loud to the tech-forward Sonar, these are the festivals you can’t miss.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the top festivals in Portugal in 2023.
South Portugal
Ladies and gents, this Portugal festival needs no introduction. Despite its recent launch, the Miami-born Rolling Loud is the godfather of all hip-hop events. Known for its curated lineups and hard-to-score acts, the urban music event is one for the books.
Lisbon Area
As one of Europe’s most respected alternative festivals, NOS Alive has a “beach by day, music by night” motto. Thanks to its sunny location, the three-day event is the summer getaway that every music lover wants. Should we also mention that acts like Arctic Monkeys are NOS Alive alumni?
Southwest Portugal
Envisioned, shaped, and founded by a Nigerian promoter, Afro Nation serves nothing but the best afrobeats. Despite its international appeal, the Portugal festival stays loyal to the culture it promotes – an endeavor which is reflected in everything, from lineups to festival-goers’ outfits.
Lisbon
Sonar is the ultimate intersection between technology and experimental electronic music. Offering an alternative, groovy experience for all to enjoy, this event brings together tens of thousands of international music lovers seeking something unique from their festival journey.
Northwest Portugal
Also dubbed as one of Portugal’s go-to festival getaways, Paredes de Coura is home to everything alternative. The multi-day event serves as a platform for indie talent and a place for new music discovery, thanks to its lineups. At over 25 editions, the Paredes de Coura draws in 100,000 people every year.
Porto Area
Loyal to underground culture, Neopop Festival is the electronic event nobody asked for but the one everybody needs. Taking over seedy warehouses-like buildings and adding a dash of vibrancy through impressive visuals, the fest is a mecca for techno fans across Europe.
Porto Area
Despite its recent launch, Authentica Festival is far from acting like a rookie. Billed as a festival promoting Portugal’s culture, Authentica brings budding talents and rising stars from across the country. Cozy and ready to get a multi-genre roster, the event is indie from A to Z.