1. Introduction: The Smell of Roasted Chestnuts in the Air

The aroma of roasted chestnuts, the colourful lights of the carousels, and the festive sounds filling the air transport us straight into the heart of autumn. In Portimão, the São Martinho Fair is the epicentre of this beloved tradition — but behind its familiar charm lies a rich history and fascinating details that most visitors don’t know. Keep reading to discover the secrets that make this fair much more than just a popular local event.

2. A Journey Through Time: Over Three Centuries of History

Think this is a recent fair? Think again. This isn’t just any event — it’s the “oldest and most iconic socio-economic event” in Portimão, with origins dating back to 1662. In 2025, it celebrates its 362nd edition, turning a simple visit into a living connection with the city’s past. Few events remain so relevant for more than three centuries, and the secret may lie in its ability to evolve. Each year brings new attractions, and the 2025 edition even promises “new amusements” to surprise visitors.

3. From Bread with Chouriço to Brand-New Cars: A Fascinating Contrast

One of the fair’s most striking features is how the traditional and the modern coexist. On one side, you’ll find timeless aromas and flavours: the unmistakable scent of roasted chestnuts and octopus mingles with freshly baked bread with chouriço, while the stalls overflow with nuts and sweet potatoes. For those with a sweet tooth, there’s cotton candy, popcorn, and gummies. You’ll also find items that have stood the test of time — clay pots, linens, kitchenware, clothes, and shoes.
Just a few metres away, however, the Portimão Arena hosts a car exhibition featuring both new and used vehicles. This mix of the old and the new reveals the fair’s extraordinary ability to evolve and attract different audiences without ever losing its original soul.

4. Fun for Everyone (and Every Budget)

The São Martinho Fair also thinks of the community, offering special themed days with discounted prices to make the fun accessible to all. November 12 is Youth Day, with special offers for younger visitors. The closing day, November 16, is dedicated entirely to families, who can also enjoy discounts at participating stands. This initiative highlights the fair’s inclusive and welcoming spirit.

5. An Event that Transforms the City

The São Martinho Fair is so large that it literally transforms the city. For ten days — from 7 to 16 November — the Fair Park comes alive, but setting up and dismantling such a massive event is a complex operation. For safety reasons, the pedestrian and cycling path connecting to the riverside area is closed during installation (29 Oct–7 Nov) and dismantling (17–20 Nov).
Its importance is such that other local events pause to make room for it. Throughout November, both the monthly market and the Antiques Fair are suspended, giving way to the city’s main attraction. This shows that the São Martinho Fair is not just an event — it’s the beating heart of Portimão during this period.
Visitors will find easy access: the south entrance (next to the railway bridge) and north entrance (from Largo Gil Eanes) will both be open, and the Vai e Vem city bus network has convenient stops nearby.

6. Conclusion: A Tradition Reinvented

The São Martinho Fair in Portimão is a remarkable example of how a tradition can honour its long past while embracing the present to stay alive and relevant. Even after 362 years, it continues to surprise. The next time you visit a traditional fair, what hidden stories will you uncover behind the lights and the cotton candy?