THOUSANDS OF visitors flocked to Loulé’s recent six-day jamboree, the “Festival MED” Mediterranean Festival. Indeed the event was such a success, surpassing all expectations, that Loulé Câmara, the organising body, is already planning next year’s festival.
Taking place in Loulé’s historic centre, the event featured music, dance, exhibitions, gastronomy, conferences and workshops, all with a Mediterranean theme. The festival’s musical element was one of the principal points of focus for many. Performing on stages erected in the grounds of the Convento Espírito Santo and in the Castle precinct were acts including Brazilian Tom Zé, renowned flamenco guitarist Tmatito, the African outfit Terrakota and Spaccanopoli from Naples. There was also a traditional Portuguese contribution from the Gaiteiros of Lisbon, and Fado from “A Naifa”.
Visitors to the event ranged from the very young to the very senior and, as such a good time was had by all. Loulé Câmara is planning a bigger and even better festival for 2006, in the firm belief that it will become an important point of reference in the Portuguese summer festival calendar.
