Best Festivals in the Azores for 2025

Best Festivals in the Azores 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

1. Sanjoaninas Festival (June 20-29, 2025)

The Sanjoaninas Festival in Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island, is one of the most vibrant and celebrated events in the Azores. This year, it holds special significance as it commemorates the 500th anniversary of the birth of Luís de Camões, Portugal’s most celebrated poet. The festival will feature a variety of events inspired by Camões' literary works, including themed parades, theater performances, and poetry readings. Expect traditional bullfights (which are non-lethal and focused on skill and agility), colorful folk dances, and nightly concerts that fill the historic streets with music and cheer. The 2025 edition promises a unique blend of cultural homage and traditional revelry, making it an unmissable event for those looking to experience the true spirit of the Azores.

Highlights:

• Bailinhos: Traditional folk dances performed in colorful costumes, often reflecting local stories and themes. These vibrant performances bring the streets to life and showcase the island's rich cultural heritage.
• Bullfighting: Unlike the Spanish tradition, these bullfights are non-lethal and focus on agility and skill. Known as "Touradas à Corda," these events involve bulls being guided by a long rope in an open space, testing the bravery and agility of local participants.
• Parades and Fireworks: Extravagant parades, including the much-anticipated Camões-themed procession, fill the streets with color and creativity, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display over the city’s historic center. These parades often feature elaborate floats, live music, and traditional costumes, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
• Literary Tributes: Special events celebrating the life and works of Luís de Camões, including public poetry readings and theatrical adaptations of his most famous works, provide a cultural depth to the celebrations, offering a unique way to engage with Portugal's literary heritage.
• Street Markets: Explore the bustling markets filled with local crafts, traditional foods, and artisanal products. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs and sample delicious local treats.

How to Get There: Fly into Lajes Airport (TER) and take a taxi or bus to Angra do Heroísmo. The city is easily navigable on foot, especially during the festival.

Tickets: Most events are free, but bullfight tickets and some concert passes can be purchased online or at local kiosks.

Local Tips: Arrive early for the best spots along the parade route. Try local specialties like Alcatra, a slow-cooked beef dish, at one of the many food stalls.

2. Holy Spirit Festivals (May - September 2025)

The Holy Spirit Festivals, celebrated across all nine islands, are a cornerstone of Azorean culture. This religious and community-focused celebration revolves around themes of charity, sharing, and faith. Each island and town has its unique traditions, but all feature processions carrying the symbolic crown of the Holy Spirit, communal feasts, and the distribution of food to the needy. The festival culminates in a lively celebration where residents and visitors alike are invited to partake in traditional dishes like "Sopas do Espírito Santo" (Holy Spirit Soup).

Highlights:

• Processions: Lavish parades with the symbolic crown and flag of the Holy Spirit move through the streets, accompanied by singing and traditional music.
• Feasts: Community meals, where everyone is welcome to enjoy traditional dishes like "Sopas do Espírito Santo" and "Alfenim," a sweet made of sugar and egg whites.
• Charitable Acts: The festivals are marked by acts of generosity, with donations of food and money to those in need.
• Cultural Performances: Local folk music and dance performances bring communities together in a joyful celebration of faith and culture.

How to Get There: Each island hosts its own version of the festival. Fly into Ponta Delgada (PDL) for São Miguel or Horta (HOR) for Faial and connect via inter-island flights or ferries.

Tickets: Free to attend, with optional donations encouraged for charitable activities.

Local Tips: Participate in a local "Império" feast, a communal meal served to anyone who wishes to join, as an act of community and charity.

3. Day of the Azores (June 9, 2025)

The Day of the Azores is celebrated annually on the Monday following Pentecost and is one of the most significant holidays in the region. In 2025, it will be held on June 9, with official celebrations taking place on São Jorge Island. This day is dedicated to the unity and cultural identity of the Azorean people, commemorating the autonomy of the region and showcasing the rich heritage of each island.

Highlights:

• Official Ceremonies: The day begins with official ceremonies attended by regional government officials, featuring speeches on the achievements and future of the Azores.
• Parades and Processions: Each island participates in vibrant parades showcasing traditional costumes, music, and dance, celebrating the unique culture and community spirit of the Azores.
• Cultural Performances: The day is filled with musical performances, theater, and dance that reflect the diverse cultural landscape of the islands.
• Community Feasts: Join in communal feasts featuring traditional Azorean dishes, fostering a sense of unity and celebration among locals and visitors alike.

How to Get There: Fly into São Jorge Airport (SJZ), then take a taxi to Velas, where the main celebrations will be held.

Tickets: The event is free and open to the public. Some special performances may require tickets, available online or on-site.

Local Tips: Explore São Jorge's stunning Fajãs and try the island’s famous São Jorge cheese. Arrive early to enjoy the day’s events and secure a good spot for the parade.

4. Maré de Agosto Festival (August  2025)

Held on the stunning Praia Formosa beach on Santa Maria Island, the Maré de Agosto Festival is the oldest music festival in the Azores and a magnet for music lovers. The 2025 lineup promises an eclectic mix of local and international artists, with genres ranging from rock and jazz to electronic and world music. The beach setting, combined with vibrant music and a laid-back atmosphere, makes this festival a unique cultural experience.

Highlights:

• Diverse Lineup: Enjoy performances from artists spanning genres such as rock, jazz, electronic, and world music, creating a rich and eclectic atmosphere.
• Beach Concerts: The stage is set right on the beach, allowing festival-goers to enjoy the music while feeling the sand between their toes and the sea breeze.
• Nightly Campfires: Gather around campfires for impromptu jam sessions and storytelling, enhancing the festival’s community spirit.
• Artisan Markets: Browse through stalls selling local crafts, artworks, and festival memorabilia.

How to Get There: Fly into Santa Maria Airport (SMA) and take a short taxi ride to Praia Formosa. The festival site is easily accessible and offers camping facilities.

Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for camping spots, as they sell out quickly.

Local Tips: Bring a light jacket for the evening breeze and try the local wine paired with fresh seafood from the festival stalls.

5. Cais de Agosto Festival (August,  2025)

The Cais de Agosto Festival in Madalena, Pico Island, is a maritime celebration that highlights the island's strong connection to the sea. Expect thrilling whaleboat regattas, where traditional Azorean boats race along the coast, as well as lively concerts, street performances, and parades. This festival is a fantastic way to experience Pico’s vibrant community spirit and stunning natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Whaleboat Regattas: Traditional whaleboat races are the centerpiece of the festival, showcasing the island’s maritime skills and heritage.
• Concerts and Performances: Enjoy live music from local and international artists, ranging from folk to contemporary genres.
• Street Parades: Themed parades fill the streets of Madalena with color and energy, featuring floats and local performers.
• Food and Wine Stalls: Sample Pico's renowned wines and local delicacies, such as fresh seafood and traditional "Lapas" (limpets).

How to Get There: Fly into Pico Airport (PIX) and take a taxi or bus to Madalena. The town is small and easy to explore on foot.

Tickets: Free to attend, but VIP seating for concerts and boat race viewings can be purchased on-site.

Local Tips: Take a detour to the nearby vineyards, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a wine tasting tour.

6. Semana dos Baleeiros (August, 2025)

Semana dos Baleeiros, or Whalers Week, in Lajes do Pico, Faial Island, is a celebration of the Azores’ whaling heritage. This festival is packed with cultural activities, including whaleboat races, historical reenactments, and exhibitions. It’s an incredible way to delve into the maritime history of the Azores, with opportunities to learn about the traditional techniques of whaling and see beautifully restored whaleboats in action.

Highlights:

• Whaleboat Races: Witness thrilling races featuring traditional whaleboats, reflecting the island’s deep connection to the sea.
• Historical Exhibits: Explore displays and exhibitions on the history of whaling in the Azores, including fascinating artifacts and restored boats.
• Cultural Performances: Enjoy music, dance, and storytelling that celebrate Pico’s maritime culture and heritage.
• Whalers Museum: Special events and guided tours at the Whalers Museum offer a deeper understanding of the island’s whaling history.

How to Get There: Fly into Horta Airport (HOR) and take a ferry to Pico Island. Lajes do Pico is about an hour’s drive from the ferry terminal.

Tickets: Most events are free, but some workshops and museum tours may require a small fee.

Local Tips: Visit the Whalers Museum in Lajes do Pico to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s whaling history.

7. Wine in Azores (1-3 Novembro 2024)

Wine in Azores is the premier food and wine festival of the region, held in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island. This event brings together top winemakers from across the Azores and Portugal, offering tastings, gourmet food pairings, and workshops. The 2025 edition will include special sessions on sustainable viticulture and organic winemaking, reflecting a growing trend in the industry.

Highlights:

• Wine Tasting: Sample a diverse range of wines, including unique Azorean varieties like Verdelho and Arinto, alongside Portuguese favorites.
• Gourmet Pairings: Enjoy exquisite food pairings from local chefs, featuring island specialties such as seafood and artisanal cheeses.
• Workshops and Seminars: Learn about sustainable winemaking and viticulture from industry experts through interactive sessions.
• Local Vendors: Explore stalls showcasing local products, from gourmet foods to handcrafted items.

How to Get There: Fly into Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL). The festival is held in the city center, easily reachable by taxi or bus.

Tickets: Purchase tasting tickets in advance online or at the venue entrance. Workshops and seminars require separate tickets.

Local Tips: Take a guided tour of the vineyards in Pico or São Miguel before the festival to get a taste of where the magic happens.

8. Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres (May 23-27, 2025)

This religious festival, held in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, is one of the most significant events in the Azores. Thousands of pilgrims gather to honor the Holy Christ of Miracles with processions, prayers, and festivities. The streets are decorated with intricate floral carpets, and the atmosphere is one of deep devotion and communal spirit. The 2025 edition will feature additional cultural events, including a special art exhibition and nightly concerts that celebrate the island’s artistic heritage.

Highlights:

• Main Procession: The image of the Holy Christ is carried through the streets adorned with floral carpets, accompanied by thousands of pilgrims.
• Religious Services: Attend mass at the Igreja do Santo Cristo, a focal point of the festival’s religious celebrations.
• Floral Carpets: The intricate floral designs lining the streets are a beautiful and symbolic part of the festival.
• Art Exhibitions: Special exhibits showcasing religious and contemporary art inspired by the festival and Azorean culture.

How to Get There: Fly into Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL). The city center, where most events take place, is a short drive or bus ride away.

Tickets: Free to attend, but some concerts and exhibitions may require tickets.

Local Tips: Book your accommodations early, as the city fills up quickly during the festival. Enjoy local treats like "malassadas," a delicious Azorean doughnut, while exploring the event.