Algarve International Film Festival
Portimão
May 2008

Each year the Algarve town of Portimão hosts Portugal's oldest cinema event dating back to 1972. The event focuses on short films and features film makers from around the world.

Rock in Rio- Lisboa
Lisbon
30 - 31 May & 6 - 8 June 2008

Rock Rio has become one of Portugal's most highly anticipated rock shows. Every other year the show makes its way to Lisbon and this year's headliner is confirmed as Lenny Kravitz.

Lisbon Village Festival
Lisbon
June 2008

This event is held a various venues through out Lisbon. The festival features music, film, and art with prizes and awards given to each category.

São João Festivities
Porto
23 June 2008

The celebration of Saint John the Baptist is unmatched in Porto, where the streets come alive with festivities. Revelers dance to live music, while delicious cuisine is served throughout the city. Fireworks light up the night sky but do not signal the end of the party, as celebrations continue all through the night.

Funchal Jazz Festival
Funchal
3 July - 5 July 2008

The Quinta Magnolia Gardens host jazz musicians from Madeira as well as from around the world to showcase their soulful music at this annual event. Past performers have included Arturo Sandoval, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Dianna Reeves.

Moorish Nights
Cacela Velha, Algarve
July 2008

Cacela Velha is transported back to the 10th century, when the Arab occupation of this area began. The village recreates a traditional "souk" market featuring Moorish crafts. An Arabic menu is served over the four day fair and promises to convey the rich history of the Moors in Portugal.

Almada International Theatre Festival
Lisbon
July 2008

Theater buffs cannot afford to miss this cavalcade of performances across Lisbon. International and local talent, both experienced and emerging can be found on stages at the Centro Cultural de Belém and the Almada Theatre among others. One piece is selected to be performed the following year as a special honor.

Beer Festival
Lisbon
July - August 2008

Beer connoisseurs descend upon St. George's Castle to sample a variety of ales and lagers while entertainment including live Portuguese music, food tastings and a craft ensure that a great time will be had by all who attend. The site of the festival provides breathtaking views of the city, perfecting the experience.

Palmela Wine Festival
Palmela
August - September 2008

Harvest time brings a wonderful problem to the people of Palmela. With a new year's crop of grapes ripe for wine, last year's stores of wine must be consumed to make room for the new supply. Take advantage of the many varieties of locally produced wines, while you explore the impressive artifacts from Arab occupation dating back to the 11th century.

National Horse Fair
Golegã
November 2008

Equestrians will love this fair, hosting various events such as the Horse Driving Competition, the Endurance Ride Competition, and Show Jumping; as well as events geared towards younger riders. This fair occurs alongside celebrations honoring Saint Martin. Local cuisine including barbecued chicken, roasted chestnuts, and an intriguing drink made from water and grape husks left over from wine production: foot-water.

Lisbon International Marathon
Lisbon
December 2008

Though Portugal is not universally accepted as a nation of runners, Lisbon's annual marathon still attracts thousands of participants from around the countryside and abroad. The route offers several different views of Lisbon as each route of the run goes in a different direction, returning to the starting point.

Noite Mágica
Belém Tower, Lisbon
31 December 2008

Revelers celebrate the New Year across Lisbon, but the epicenter of fun and excitement is the Belém Tower. Here, a musical extravaganza delights crowds before a blazing fireworks display at midnight. You will want to arrive to the tower early as the best spots to see the action are the first to go!