Festival Fair

The origin of the current fair dates back to the 17th century, ordered by D. João V, although the first detailed information appeared in the first half of the 18th century, in Father João de Sousa Homem’s monograph. This municipality fair, realized in mid-May, is still a much appreciated tourist attraction today, repeated annually, with two popular and essential numbers –  the cattle contest and the horse race – that bring to the city thousands of spectators from all over Minho. All this, mixed with fireworks, folkloric groups, concertinas and band music, perfectly illustrate this fair that has the features of a great celebration. Maintaining the same characteristics over the last decades, this municipality fair has also adapted to new times, surviving as a necessary and cyclical space of social accomplishment.