Festival do Perceve: A Culinary Celebration in Vila do Bispo
The recent Festival do Perceve, held from 27th to 29th June in Vila do Bispo, successfully concluded its latest edition, reaffirming its status as one of the Algarve’s most iconic gastronomic events. Attracting over 7,000 visitors, the festival showcased the region’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant community spirit.
During the three-day event, attendees were warmly welcomed by a dedicated team of 92 volunteers, who ensured that the festival’s highlight—the delectable perceves, harvested by local fishermen—was served fresh and delicious. In addition to these prized shellfish, guests enjoyed a variety of traditional Algarvean delicacies, including mussels, limpets, fried moray eel, fried cuttlefish, octopus salad, and a traditional polenta dish known as “papas de xerém.”
The excitement didn’t stop at the food. The festival also featured lively entertainment, with performances from Al-Fanfare, the C.C.S.F. Vila do Bispo Choir, and the Flor de Amendoeira group. Families were catered for too, with a dedicated children’s area and various exhibitors showcasing local crafts and products.
Each night brought its own musical flair, starting with a captivating performance by HMB on the festival’s opening night. The second evening saw the energetic Festa M80, while festival-goers were treated to a delightful finale with a performance by Maninho on the last night.
Organised by the Vila do Bispo Municipal Council in collaboration with the Association of Fishermen of Vila do Bispo and Costa Vicentina, the festival aimed to harness one of the region’s greatest culinary assets to enliven the local community, attract tourists, and boost the local economy.
As Vila do Bispo reflects on the success of this year’s Festival do Perceve, we look forward to future editions that will continue to celebrate the flavours and traditions of our beautiful Algarve.
