Algarve’s oldest Carnival is expecting 20,000 visitors on February 19 and 21.

Moncarapacho is bringing back its “Battle of the Flowers” following two years of alternative celebrations due to the pandemic.

According to the Parish Union of Moncarapacho and Fuseta, “in 2023, the Moncarapacho Carnival is celebrating its 124^th anniversary”. It is the oldest in the Algarve, taking place since 1899.

Following tradition, a theme was not instituted, leaving room for the imagination of those responsible for the paper-flower-decorated floats and involving the local community in their making.

This peculiarity gives the Carnival of Moncarapacho the nickname “Battle of the Flowers”, which distinguished the floats with the most eye-catching decoration.

Twelve floats and 14 entertainment groups are taking to the streets of Moncarapacho at 15:00 on February 19 and 21, mobilising some 500 revellers to join the parade.

Over 20,000 people are expected on the two days of the event, which is free of admission.

The floats depict figures from children’s imagination, the preservation of the Ria Formosa’s biodiversity and road safety, among others.

In parallel, from February 17 to 21, the Casa do Povo de Moncarapacho is organising traditional masquerade balls, starting at 21:00.

The Moncarapacho Carnival is organised by the Union of Parishes of Moncarapacho and Fuseta, with the support of the Municipality of Olhão and the local population’s collaboration.