Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in the heart of Alto Minho! From June 5th to 7th, the charming town of Arcos de Valdevez will be the stage for the eagerly awaited Arcos Fado Fest, which this year is being held in perfect harmony with the Festivinhão (Arcos de Valdevez Wine Festival). This free admission event promises to be the ideal meeting point for lovers of traditional Portuguese music, excellent Minho cuisine and authentic wine tourism.
The Stage, Fado and the Stars
The event will take place in the iconic Trasladario Amphitheater, The event will take place in a privileged open-air space on the banks of the river. The big attraction on the program takes place on June 6th, with an unmissable performance by the acclaimed fado singer Marco Rodrigues, which will bring together two of the greatest female voices on the Portuguese music scene: Aurea and Marisa Liz. The combination of the soul of fado with the energy of these special guests promises to create
moments of pure magic and emotion.
Vinho Verde: The Nectar of Alto Minho
Since the Arcos Fado Fest is accompanied by the Festivinhão, wine tourism is a natural highlight. The municipality of Arcos de Valdevez is proudly part of the Lima sub-region, which is one of the nine sub-regions of the Vinho Verde Denomination of Origin (DO).
Vinho Verde is one of Portugal's greatest ambassadors in the world, being a true “guarantee of authenticity, quality and respect for the ecosystem”. During the festival, visitors will have the excellent opportunity to taste white, red, rosé and sparkling wines, produced by Quintas of excellence.
A Journey through Traditional Flavors
Your cultural experience wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the region's rich gastronomy. To accompany the wine tastings at Festivinhão, we suggest you enjoy some of the county's ex-libris:
- The unmistakable Carne da Cachena with Tarreste Bean Rice.
- The comfort dishes, such as Cozido à Moda dos Arcos and the tasty Rojões & Papas de Sarrabulho.
- Conventual and traditional sweets, where Arcos cigars, Bolo de Discos and the famous Rebuçados dos Arcos (sweets) reign supreme.
Explore the Nature and History of the Vez Valley
We suggest you take advantage of your visit to the Arcos Fado Fest to explore a unique territory that combines adventure and discovery, culture and traditions.
If you're a fan of nature tourism and are looking to “completely disconnect from routine”, Arcos de Valdevez is one of the main gateways to the majestic Peneda-Gerês National Park (PNPG), accessible via the emblematic Mezio Gate. During the day, before the concerts, enjoy an invigorating stroll along the Ecovias and Trilhos do Vez or the peaceful promenade of the River Vez.
For a real encounter with history, a visit to the Paço de Giela is a must. The municipality is also proud to preserve authentic villages, such as Soajo with its iconic granaries, and Sistelo, famous for its terraces and recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of Rural Villages in Portugal.
Where to Stay and How to Follow the Event
To make your Minho getaway absolutely perfect, the region has a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to country houses. Boutique rural lodgings in the area - such as Carvalha House - offer the close hospitality and comfort ideal for relaxing and enjoying the silence of the mountains after concerts.
Useful information:
- Dates: June 05-07, 2026
- Location: Amphitheater, Arcos de Valdevez
- Entry: Free of charge
- Organization contacts: +351 258 520 520 | arcosfadofest@gmail.com
- Social media: Follow our Instagram page @arcosfadofest so you don't miss any updates!
Get your family and friends together and come and celebrate Portuguese culture. O Arcos Fado Fest and Festivinhão are the perfect excuse to toast to life with the best Vinho Verde, to the sound of guitars and the greatest voices in our country!
