Carnival is huge in the Algarve and some say the little town of Loulé even introduced Carnival to Rio de Janeira via the Portuguese immigrants who arrived on those South American shores. It’s a colourful, noisy, fun event which brings everyone together in one big party. Visiting Carnival in the Algarve, particularly Loulé Carnival is a wonderful experience. It’s definitely recommended if you’re in the area in the run up to Lent.
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Where to enjoy Carnival in the Algarve, Portugal
There are lots of towns across the Algarve who put on a carnival including, often, Albufeira, Quarteira, Lagos, Portimão, Altura, São Brás de Alportel, Alte and Sagres.
All across the region people are celebrating. One of the best places is Loulé which is the oldest carnival in Portugal.
About Loulé Carnival
Loulé celebrates with three days of festivities which includes processions, amazingly decorated floats (many with political messages), dancing, music, flamboyant costumes and lots of fun.
We were really pleased that on our winter trip to the Algarve we had the opportunity to visit the carnival in Loulé. This was for its third and final afternoon.
The whole town was absolutely rocking, smiling and dancing its way around.
It’s a wonderful experience if you are in the Algarve and visiting around the middle of February. It’s well worth seeking out the ‘carnaval’ which brings local people and tourists together for some truly authentic Portuguese fun.
We particularly loved the wild and wonderful costumes and crazy floats.
Top Tips
- Arrive early. It’s good to park up about an hour before it all kicks off (usually at 3pm). There are lots of on street, free, parking if you get there in good time.
- It costs a small amount (€2 when we visited in 2018) to get in.
- You can buy confetti and paper streamers inexpensively from some of the small shops lining the main street (José da Costa Mealha Avenue)in Loulé where the procession takes place.
- It can get very busy so hold on to hands of any children you’re visiting with if you start moving around through the crowds – we found it easier to find our spot to watch from and stay there.
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What an amazing event! I visit the Algarve a lot, but I’ve never been to seen the carnival in Loulé. I’ll have to try and visit next year x
This looks like such a fun day out. I’ll have to check it out next year if I’m in the area! x
I have always wanted to visit the Algarve. This carnival looks like lots of fun,
I would love to go to a proper carnival, I have never been to this area either. Kaz
Looks like that you had an awesome day there and I would love to see this kind of event in live. Glad that you share this
Ah what a lovely event. I’ve never been to a proper carnival but I’ve always wanted to! great tip for arriving early too 🙂
Oh wow. Without a doubt, this is something that I would love to do. I love all the bright colours and the fun loving atmosphere of carnival xxx
The carnival looks like so much fun! I would love to see it. We are going to Lisbon in June for a week.
I so love carnivals so festive and colorful, had no idea about the Algarve carnival , would love to check out some day!
This looks fun! The Russian float made me smile. All those dolls, with Putin!