São João Festival in Figueira

The Popular Saints are back, and with them, one of the most cherished festivals in the parish of Mexilhoeira Grande.

On June 20 and 21, the village of Figueira will celebrate São João with two days of festivities, music, community, and tradition.

Organized by the parish community for over four decades, this festival brings together generations of locals and involves local associations and groups, keeping alive a tradition that continues to mobilize the entire community.

The program kicks off on Saturday, June 20, with the traditional “Friendship Classic,” featuring veterans from Mexilhoeira Grande Football Club and Alverca Football Club at 11:00 am, at the Mexilhoeira Grande Sports Complex.

After the match, the gathering moves to Figueira, with a community sardine and mackerel barbecue, subject to prior registration.

From 5:30 pm, the tents for the fair, sweet treats, bar, and snacks open, marking the start of the festivities. Musical entertainment begins at 7:00 pm with Ricardo Glória. At 9:00 pm, David Dias will take the stage, followed by the band Generation XXI at 10:00 pm, performing a repertoire filled with rock hits. The night continues with Ricardo Glória.

On Sunday, June 21, the highlight of the celebrations will be the Eucharist in honor of São João, scheduled for 4:30 pm, followed by a procession through the village streets, accompanied by the Portimonense Philharmonic Society.

After the religious ceremonies, the festivities will pick up again with Manel João, leading up to the performance of the band Domingos & Amigos at 9:30 pm. The show promises to revisit the hits of the legendary Banda Íris and other well-known national rock songs. The entertainment will continue late into the night with Manel João returning to the stage.

With fairs, sweet treats, snacks, and plenty of music, the São João Festival in Figueira reaffirms itself as one of the most anticipated festive moments of the season in the parish of Mexilhoeira Grande.

The initiative is promoted by the Parish of Mexilhoeira Grande, with the support of the Municipality of Portimão, the Parish Council of Mexilhoeira Grande, the Figueirense Recreational Society, the Figueira Folkloric Group, and the Mexilhoeira Grande Football Club.