August in the Algarve usually means there is lots of delicious food to enjoy at several gastronomic festivals throughout the region.
This year is no different, and the hardest part is choosing where to go.
Since yesterday (August 2), Portimão is hosting its hugely popular Sardine Festival.
Eight restaurants are serving the traditional dish of sardines, boiled potatoes and salad – À Ravessa, Casa Bica, Dona Barca, Forte e Feio, O Meco, Retiro do Peixe Assado, Ú Venâncio and Zizá – and will be identified with the ‘Aqui Há Sardinha’ (Here We Have Sardines) logo.
The beloved ‘sardinha no pão’ (sardine on bread) is also on sale in the town’s riverside area near the old ‘Lota’ fishing market, where there is also a small fair with other traditional, regional snacks and sweets, and handicraft.
Another important part of the festival are the concerts, all starting at 10pm. Performers include Reflect (today), Átoa (Friday), Cuca Roseta (Saturday) and João Só (Sunday).
The event takes place between 7pm and 1am. Admission is free.
Another highlight of the Algarve ‘foodie calendar’ is Olhão’s Seafood Festival, which begins next Thursday (August 10) at Jardim Pescador Olhanense.
The six-day festival will feature “fresh seafood and shellfish from Ria Formosa” as well as a vast programme of musical entertainment.
Performers include Tony Carreira (August 10), Richie Campbell (11), D.A.M.A. (12), Diogo Piçarra and Jimmy P (13), Nelson Freitas (14) and Seu Jorge (15).
Daily tickets cost €6, except on the opening and closing nights when they cost €9.
There is also a ticket granting full access that costs €36 for adults and €18 for children.
Many other gastronomic happenings are scheduled this month, so it’s just a matter of deciding what appeals to you the most.
