Silves is a small town with a population of eight thousand that organises a surprising number of events, most of which are free. There’s almost always something going on in the square in front of the town hall throughout the year.
The Medieval Festival
In August, the entire old town is transformed into a medieval market for ten days. Knights, craftsmen, fire-eaters and food served at long tables, with the Moorish castle as a backdrop.
This is the biggest event of the year and by far the busiest. Go in the evening, when it’s cooler and the torches are lit.
Oranges, beer and cereal
The Laranja Festival celebrates the orange, which is the lifeblood of this region — expect tastings, music and market stalls.
There’s also a beer festival and a grain festival, both taking place in the square. Small-scale, local – and that’s exactly why they’re so much fun.
The rest of the year
Throughout the year, there are music evenings in the square, usually free of charge. In Carvoeiro, there’s something on almost every week during the summer.
At Christmas, Silves is decked out in festive lights and hosts a market, whilst Porches holds a wine tasting. It’s quieter than in summer, and there are plenty of Portuguese people around.
This is Silves at its best: not a tourist trap, but something the town does in its own right.