The festivities might not be as big and bold as the Brazilian ones, but in Porto we for sure have a bunch of different events that you can choose from. And as we usually say here “you only live for two days, and carnival lasts for three” (it’s our equivalent to YOLO).
So, put on your best mask and come find out what’s happening in Porto during Carnaval!
What is the city doing?
Photo courtesy of: Batucada Radical
Don’t think it’s strange if you see groups of children (or even adults) walking around town dressed up like superheroes or princesses. There are usually parades all over the city that fill it with color and laughter.
Centro Social de São Nicolau is organizing a parade on the 10th of February at 3 p.m, that will start in Praça da Liberdade and then walk through the streets of the historic center of Porto, between Avenida dos Aliados and Ribeira.
The group “Batucada Radical” will participate in this parade with its Brazilian inspired sounds and Portuguese traditions like men dressing up as women (or the other way around) and pranking people who are passing by.
You should not miss this one if you want to get to know our Carnival traditions.
Samaveda Carnivallium – Hard Club
Photo courtesy of: Samaveda Productions
Trance fans, this one is for you.
On the 10th of February, DigiCult are bringing their psychedelic melodies all the way from Belgium to shake up your night. Algorhythm, Kafar and Fully are also part of the line-up. It’s guaranteed that you will be taken on a unique journey through sound and colorful visuals.
Tickets are sold at the door for 12 euros.
Concerto de Carnaval – Casa da Música
Photo courtesy of: Casa Da Musica
On Sunday the 11th, Porto’s Symphonic Orchestra will take you to a masquerade ball in Vienna in the 19th century. Waltzes, polkas and quadrilles by composers like Johann Strauss and Franz Schmidt will fill the room as well as beautiful dresses, masks and astonishing scenarios. It’s the perfect way to end your afternoon.
Tickets are for sale online or at Casa da Música for 20€ (50% discount for people under 30).
Carnaval with DJ session – Hard Rock Café Porto
If Hard Rock Café is a must stop for you, this is the perfect event!
On the 12th of February at 10:30 p.m., they’re having a Carnival ball with DJ MauMau. It’s the best opportunity if you always wanted to dress up like Elvis and enjoy some music while looking at rock and roll memorabilia.
And the best part is the entrance is free.
Thug Unicorn – Gare Porto
Photo courtesy of: Thug Unicorn
Did you ever wish you could be a unicorn? Well, on the 16th of February you will have your chance!
Thug unicorn is described as the anti-dj party. An event where a safe environment is created so you can be free and get lost in pop culture references and rainbows. In this party, everything changes “as quickly as your tumblr feed”, and you can expect to listen to a lot of different musical styles and even songs that were buried in your memory.
So, just go crazy on the glitter and dance the night away.
Tickets are sold at the door.
5€ until 4 a.m., 8€ after that.
What are your plans for Carnival? Share them with us!
