Recreation of the Sardine Unloading

The traditional Recreation of the Sardine Unloading returns to Cais Gil Eanes, in Portimão, on the morning of August 4, at 09:30, marking the start of the 30th edition of the Sardine Festival. Promoted by the Municipality of Portimão, through the Portimão Museum, this initiative invites residents and visitors to travel back in time and relive one of the most significant moments in the history and identity of Portimão.

Throughout the recreation, it will be possible to witness the arrival of the boats, the unloading of the sardines, and the intense hustle and bustle of the old fish market, in an environment that evokes the surrounding fishing and the daily life of those who lived this important economic activity. About 80 actors, local associations, and volunteers bring this historical episode to life, using costumes, equipment, and means of transport from the time.

Like last year's edition, the recreation ends with the hauling of the net, one of the most emblematic moments of the fishing effort, recreating the crew's effort to pull the net aboard to the sound of the traditional work song "Arribalé", providing a memorable ending to this journey into the past.

To enhance the realism of the initiative, 600 kilograms of fresh sardines will be used, provided by Docapesca – Portos e Lotas, S.A., a partner in the recreation, also involving fishing boats that are still in operation.

Recognized in 2020 with an Honorable Mention from APOM – Portuguese Association of Museology, in the category of Innovation and Creativity, this recreation is an important example of the preservation and valorization of Portimão's intangible cultural heritage, keeping alive the collective memory linked to the old fish market and sardine fishing.

The Recreation of the Sardine Unloading precedes the inauguration of the 30th edition of the Sardine Festival, which takes place from August 4 to 9, kicking off six days of gastronomy, culture, entertainment, and music at one of the most emblematic events of the Algarve summer.

Follow us from afar

The historical recreation will be broadcast live on the official Facebook page of the Municipality of Portimão:

Facebook/portimaomunicipio

Free tasting

During the Recreation, 3,000 vouchers will be offered to spectators on-site for free tastings of two sardines in bread and a drink, available from August 4 to 9, 2026, starting at 18:00, at one of the five dining areas organized at the festival site by local associations.