A Christmas Dream Festival

From December 1 to January 6, the city of Portimão transforms into a true Christmas Dream, inviting everyone to experience the magic of this special season, inspired fantasy designed to bring joy to the entire family.

The programme opens with the traditional arrival of Father Christmas on 1 December, which will also mark the inauguration of the Christmas lights and kick off weeks of fantasy, joy and surprises, designed to entertain children and adults alike.

This year’s event sees  Santa’s House moving to Praça da República, where the ice rink will also be located, creating a particularly welcoming and fun area for families. The Christmas Market is moving to the car park of the old fish market. Together with Santa’s Factory and the renovated Christmas stage, this will create a new festive hub with the River Arade as a backdrop. This stage, set up in an air-conditioned tent, will host daily shows featuring music, dance, circus arts, poetry, theatre, magic, puppets and clowns, performed by around 500 artists, approximately 80% of whom are from or live in Portimão, including school pupils and local groups.

Santa’s Factory will continue to be a space for learning and imagination, offering creative workshops, story time, cookie baking, gift wrapping techniques and many other educational activities. The Christmas playground will feature an indoor tree climbing course and several play areas adapted to different ages, ensuring that children find a world of discovery and fun.