When is the Next Festival in Coimbra? Spring Events

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Coimbra travel info.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Coimbra travel info.

The "Burning of the Ribbons" ceremony is a major highlight for locals. It takes place at the Sé Velha cathedral with a moving serenade. Students sing mournful Fado songs to mark their graduation. You should check the Queima das Fitas 2026 dates before booking.

Daily concerts occur at the Praça da Canção near the river. International and local artists perform for thousands of excited fans every night. Tickets usually cost between 15 and 25 Euros per evening session. Buy your passes early to avoid long queues at the gate.

The Cortejo is a massive parade through the city center streets. Colorful floats represent different university departments and distribute free drinks. This event usually happens on the first Tuesday of the festival week. It is a loud and joyful experience for every visitor.

Holy Queen Elizabeth Festival in July 2026

Coimbra celebrates its patron saint every two years during even years. The Festas da Rainha Santa Isabel will return in July 2026. This religious event features a solemn procession from the Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery. It is one of the most important traditions in central Portugal.

The city streets are decorated with beautiful flowers and bright lights. You can watch the night procession carry the saint's statue across the bridge. Many pilgrims travel from across the country to participate in this walk. Visit the Turismo de Coimbra website for exact procession times.

Fireworks displays light up the Mondego River during the festival nights. Local craft fairs and food stalls set up in the city parks. You can try traditional sweets like Arroz Doce or Pastéis de Santa Clara. These treats are famous throughout the Coimbra region for their flavor.

Music concerts and folk dances happen in the main public squares. Most of these outdoor performances are free for the general public. The atmosphere is respectful yet festive during the entire two-week celebration. It is a perfect time to see the city's deep faith.

Summer Jazz and Fado Performances

Summer in Coimbra brings soulful music to the historic city streets. The Jazz ao Centro festival often takes place during the warmer months. Musicians from around the world perform in intimate venues and open squares. It is a great way to experience the city's modern culture.

You must also find where to see Fado in Coimbra during your stay. Unlike Lisbon Fado, the Coimbra style is sung only by men. It is deeply connected to the University of Coimbra and its student history. These performances often happen at night in small, atmospheric taverns.

The "Verão a Centro" program offers free cultural events in 2026. You can enjoy outdoor cinema and theater in the city gardens. Many events take place in the Jardim da Manga or Parque Verde. These locations provide a cool breeze during the hot Portuguese summer.

Check the local cultural centers for specific dates in June and August. Most summer events start late in the evening when temperatures drop. This allows you to explore the Roman ruins during the day. The city feels alive with creativity during these sun-filled months.

Autumn Food and Wine Festivals

Fall is the best time for food lovers to visit Coimbra. The city hosts several gastronomy festivals to celebrate the harvest season. You can taste local cheeses, sausages, and honey from the nearby mountains. These events usually take place in late October or early November.

Look for the food and wine festivals 2026 schedule for specific locations. Many tastings happen in the Praça do Comércio in the old town. Local winemakers from the Bairrada region often present their best sparkling wines. It is a delicious way to spend a cool autumn afternoon.

The "Mostra de Gastronomia" highlights traditional dishes like Chanfana or roasted goat. Local restaurants offer special menus at discounted prices during this week. You can experience authentic Portuguese flavors without spending a lot of money. Reservations are highly recommended for the most popular dining spots.

Roasted chestnuts are sold on street corners throughout the late autumn. The smell of wood smoke and chestnuts fills the narrow medieval alleys. This simple tradition marks the start of the colder winter season. It is a cozy time to explore the city's hidden corners.