30 November is the start of the festive season in Loulé Council. Pai Natal (aka Santa Claus) arrives to work to bring joy to local residents and visitors. Santa’s presence marks the opening of Aldeia dos Sonhos (Dream Village) in Loulé, but more Christmas attractions are in place for Almancil and Aurteira. Christmas in Loulé lasts through 6 January.
Loulé
Loulé Christmas festivities will play out across four areas: Cerco do Convento, where an ecological ice rink and ramp is installed; the Claustros is the stop for the Christmas train; Largo Afonso III, for tree climbing activities, with unique views of the castle; and Largo de São Francisco, is home to a festive carousel. Expect stands with food (think hot chocolate and mulled wine), street entertainment, music and lights!
Pai Natal Arrives 30 November at 15:00 at Praça da República.
Quarteira
Santa hasn’t forgotten about Quarteira. He has worked his magic in Praça Natal (Calçadão and Centro Autárquico), where Christmas markets, and music and dance entertainment is scheduled through the season.
Pai Natal arrive Sunday, 1 December at Calçadão Nascente at 11:30.
Almancil
Holiday festivities in Almancil take place at Jardim dos Sonhos (Jardim das Comunidades).
Pai Natal arrives Sunday, 1 December at 16:00 in the Jardim.
Christmas lights around Loulé start 30 November December, and will then shine daily from 17:30 to 23:30.
More holiday events include:
- Panda and the Caricas show – 10 December
- Feira da Serra artisanal crafts in the Loulé market – 8-10 December
- New Year’s Celebration in Quarteira – 28 December to 1 January
- Giant Kings Cake – 6 January
For parents, from 22 November to 4 January, the Um Natal Especial (A Special Christmas) campaign takes place, involving retailers from across the Loulé municipality, with the objective of boosting local commerce. It’s a great time to do Christmas shopping and celebrating. Between 22 November 2024 and 5 January 2025, buyers can be entered into a draw to win a car and other prizes for every €10 spent at participating establishments. Drawings will take place on December 17 and January 6, 2025.
Loulé Aldeia dos Sonhos Hours:
Saturday – 10:30 to 19:00
Tuesday to Friday, and Sunday – 14:30 to 19:00
Monday – closed
