Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in the heart of the Alto Minho! From 5 to 7 June, the charming town of Arcos de Valdevez will host the eagerly awaited Arcos Fado Fest, which this year takes place in perfect harmony with the Festivinhão (Arcos de Valdevez Wine Tourism Festival). This free event promises to be the ideal meeting point for lovers of traditional Portuguese music, excellent Minho cuisine and authentic wine tourism.
The Stage, the Fado and the Stars
The event will take place at the iconic Trasladário Amphitheatre, a privileged open-air space by the river banks. The main highlight of the line-up is on 6 June, with an unmissable performance by the acclaimed fado singer Marco Rodrigues, who will bring with him 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 the Alto Minho
With the Arcos Fado Fest accompanied by the Festivinhão, wine tourism naturally takes centre stage. The municipality of Arcos de Valdevez is proudly part of the Lima sub-region, 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, 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 estates of excellence.
A Journey Through Traditional Flavours
Your cultural experience would not be complete without diving into the region’s rich cuisine. To go with the wine tastings at the Festivinhão, we suggest you delight in some of the municipality’s signature dishes:
- The unmistakable Cachena beef with Tarreste bean rice.
- Comfort dishes, such as the Cozido à Moda dos Arcos (Arcos-style stew) and the tasty Rojões & Papas de Sarrabulho.
- Convent and traditional sweets, where the Charutos dos Arcos, the Bolo de Discos and the famous Rebuçados dos Arcos reign supreme.
Explore the Nature and History of the Vez Valley
We suggest you make the most of your visit to the Arcos Fado Fest to explore a unique territory that combines adventure and discovery, culture and traditions.
If you are a fan of nature tourism and looking to "switch off completely from routine", note that Arcos de Valdevez is one of the main gateways to the majestic Peneda-Gerês National Park (PNPG), accessible through the emblematic Porta do Mezio. During the day, before the concerts, enjoy an invigorating walk along the Vez eco-trails and paths or the peaceful River Vez promenade.
For a true encounter with history, a visit to the Paço de Giela is a must. The municipality also takes pride in preserving authentic villages, such as the village of Soajo with its iconic espigueiros, and Sistelo, famous for its terraces and recognised as one of the 7 Wonders – Rural Villages of Portugal.
Where to Stay and How to Follow the Event
To make your Minho getaway absolutely perfect, the region offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to country houses. Boutique rural accommodations in the area – such as Carvalha House – offer the close hospitality and comfort ideal for relaxing and enjoying the silence of the mountains after the concerts.
Useful Information:
- Dates: 5 to 7 June 2026
- Venue: Trasladário Amphitheatre, Arcos de Valdevez
- Admission: Free
- Organisation contacts: +351 258 520 520 | arcosfadofest@gmail.com
- Social media: Follow the Instagram page @arcosfadofest so you don’t miss any updates!
Gather family and friends and come celebrate Portuguese culture. The Arcos Fado Fest and the Festivinhão are the perfect excuse to toast to life with the best Vinho Verde, to the sound of guitars and the greatest voices of our country!
