New event is free to visit and a lot of entertainment
The countdown has begun for Vila Real de Santo António Setecentista, a new event which is promising to take the Eastern Algarve town back in time to the 18th century.
Organised by the local council, the event aims to “portray the daily life of the village in the 18th century and highlight its historical, cultural and social importance.” It will be held between Friday, May 12 and Sunday, May 14 and mark the town’s 247th anniversary.
“From recreations to processions, shows, a market and banquets, there will be no shortage of reasons to visit the town and get to know all of the characters from that era,” the council says.
One of the highlights promises to be the historical processions, which will “revive a tradition with deep roots in the town”.
Throughout the weekend there will also be a wide range of circus and theatre performances recreating important historic moments or scenes, such as the disembarking of pirates, a slave auction or a recreation of the anniversary of Marquês do Pombal, the Portuguese statesman who played a key role in the town’s creation.
A wide range of interactive shows are also scheduled to get visitors to join the fun. Those looking to truly experience the event will also be able to rent a costume.
The event’s market will have a constant stream of live music and dance performances, juggling, acrobatics, falconry and activities for children.
All the festivities are free to attend, except for two special events: a masquerade ball which is scheduled for Friday, May 12 at 9pm at the António Aleixo Cultural Centre, inspired by the Carnival of Venice, with tickets costing €5 per person; and a banquet, which will take place on Saturday, May 13 at the cultural centre as well (€50pp). Tickets can be purchased at the cultural centre or online.
The event will be brought to a close on the final night with a “grandiose fire work show” along Avenida da República.
