This spring, the charming coastal town of Lagos transforms once again into a living time capsule, as the Festival dos Descobrimentos (Festival of Discoveries) returns from April 30 to May 4. In its 12th edition, the festival continues to honor Portugal’s golden Age of Discovery—this year with an exciting new cultural companion: Japan.
Step Into History
It all kicks off with a grand Historical Procession on April 30, parading down the Avenue of Discoveries to Infante Square. With over 2,000 costumed participants—from local schoolchildren to historical reenactment groups and even the Japanese Ambassador—this parade sets the tone for five extraordinary days of celebration.
Across Lagos, themed zones and interactive exhibits invite guests to step into the 16th century. The Feira Quinhentista fills Infante Square and the Constitution Garden with bustling merchants, artisans, and tavern keepers. The air will be rich with the scent of roasting meats, the clang of blacksmiths at work, and the laughter of children spinning on handmade carousels.
A Taste of Japan in the Algarve
In a special tribute to the cultural bridges built during the Age of Exploration, this year’s theme, “The Great Adventure – From Lagos to Japan,” brings Japanese culture into the spotlight. The dedicated Japan Space in Constitution Garden offers an enchanting dive into Japanese arts and traditions—with live demonstrations of origami, calligraphy, furoshiki wrapping, mizuhiki knot-tying, and the ancient art of Kyudo (Japanese archery). Don’t miss out on trying traditional sweets like mochi for daifuku, or sampling sushi prepared in the Japanese culinary stalls.
Explore, Learn, Play
Whether you’re a history buff, a family with kids, or just looking for a unique cultural experience, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the past with guided tours of Lagos’ historic center and exhibitions at the Lagos Museum—which offers free entry during the festival. Attend the international conference on Portugal’s encounters with Japan, or catch a film at the Lagos Cinema, where Asian cinema takes center stage for the weekend.
Kids (and adults alike) will love exploring the Life On Board a Caravel exhibit or becoming a Navigator for a Day with a tour on the Santa Bernarda caravel, complete with interactive storytelling and role play. At the Remarkable Village, watch traditional crafts come to life—blacksmithing, weaving, fishing net making—and meet a host of farm and exotic animals.
When Night Falls…
As the sun dips below the Atlantic, Lagos lights up with spectacular nighttime performances. From the fiery acrobatics of Circle of Fire, to the hypnotic rhythms of Taiko drumming, to theatrical spectacles like First Love—a tragic romance between Princess Wakasa and Fernão Mendes Pinto—each evening promises unforgettable entertainment under the stars.
Whether you come for the history, the culture, the food, or the family fun, the Festival of Discoveries in Lagos is a must-experience event that truly brings the spirit of exploration to life. Make space on your calendar—and let yourself be swept away by one of the Algarve’s most dynamic and meaningful festivals.
For more information visit the Festival of Discoveries website.
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