Arte Doce Festival Celebrates Regional Sweets Amidst Festive Spirit
For five days, the 36th edition of the Arte Doce Fair transformed Lagos into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange and culinary delight, attracting thousands of visitors and hosting dozens of exhibitors. This year’s theme, “Meeting of Cultures for Peace,” not only inspired the confectionery contest but also permeated the entire event, from the show cooking to the diverse lineup of performers.
A Sweet Symphony of Traditions and Innovations
The festival, a highlight of the Algarve summer, showcased traditional Algarvian sweets alongside a rich program that included live music, cooking demonstrations, children’s entertainment, and, of course, an abundance of sweet treats. The event reaffirmed its status as a major attraction, drawing both locals and tourists to experience the culinary arts in a festive atmosphere.
Cultural Diversity on Display
Highlighting the theme “Meeting of Cultures for Peace,” the Arte Doce Fair featured exhibitors from various regions, with a special focus on Beira Interior, this year’s guest region. The cultural diversity was also reflected in the array of artists who took to the stage. Notable performances by Maninho, Os Quatro e Meia, Bárbara Tinoco, Ivandro, and Sara Correia captivated audiences night after night, creating unforgettable moments.
Honouring the Artisans of Sweetness
At the heart of the festival were the confectioners, whose dedication and skill in crafting traditional and innovative sweets delighted thousands. The municipality recognised the best in several categories: “Arte Doce” (mandatory and free themes), “Quality in Tradition,” and “Innovative Sweets,” celebrating the talent and creativity of the participants. This recognition not only honours individual artisans but also promotes regional gastronomy and encourages the passing of knowledge to new generations.
Award Winners Shine at the Arte Doce Fair
The winners of this year’s contests were celebrated for their exceptional contributions:
- Arte Doce – Mandatory Theme “Meeting of Cultures for Peace”
- 1st place: Jorge Sequeira – As Passinhas do Algarve
- 2nd place: Lucília Baptista
- 3rd place: Paulo Vieira – Pó de Açúcar
- Arte Doce – Free Theme
- 1st place: Lucília Baptista
- 2nd place: Eugénia Militão – Os Docinhos da Gena
- 3rd place: Jorge Sequeira – As Passinhas do Algarve
- Quality in Tradition
- Best Doce Fino: Lucília Baptista
- Best Dom Rodrigo: Ana Duarte – Pastelaria Doce & Arte
- Best Doce de Figo: Liberdade Joaquim
- Best Morgado: Tânia Joaquim and Gracinda Baptista – Atelier dos Sabores
- Innovative Sweets
- Ana Duarte – Pastelaria Doce e Arte
A Heartfelt Thanks
The local government extends a special thank you to all visitors, participants, services, and entities involved, with particular affection for the confectioners who continue to keep our traditions alive. The positive outcome of the Arte Doce Fair once again reinforces Lagos’s role as a premier tourist and cultural destination. This event not only celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the region but also fosters a sense of community and shared heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone in Lagos during the summer.
