Singing the ‘Janeiras’

‘Janeiras’ are traditional Portuguese January carols that are sung by people of all ages, as they go from house to house wishing their neighbours a happy New Year. People give the singers small gifts, such as oranges and sweets, or whatever they can, in exchange for hearing the ‘Janeiras’. The songs are passed down by each generation in a tradition that recalls the years gone by and celebrates the coming year. On January 4, the ‘Janeiras’ will be sung at the Paderne Igreja Matriz, at 3pm, and later in the town’s Casa do Povo, at 8pm. On January 10, the Albufeira Municipal Auditorium will stage the Third Meeting of Janeiras Singing, at 9.30pm.