FARO — Between the days October 16 and 26, 2025, the city of Faro will once again dress up for the occasion with the emblematic Santa Iria Fair, considered one of the oldest and most celebrated events in the Algarve. mercadomunicipaldefaro.pt
Organized by Ambifaro in partnership with Faro City Council, the fair takes place in the traditional San Francisco Square, in the city's historic center, providing space for exhibitions, crafts, restaurants, entertainment and cultural activities. cm-faro.pt+2cm-faro.pt+2
A tradition over 400 years old
The roots of the Feira de Santa Iria date back to the 16th century. Historical documents indicate the year 1596 as a reference for the holding of the “feira franca”, or tax-free fair, established after a period of difficulties in the city, according to local sources. Wikipedia+2Postal+2 Over the centuries, the fair has established itself as a meeting point for tradition, commerce and popular culture.
The name “Santa Iria” arises due to its annual coincidence with the liturgical date of the patron saint, October 20, the day on which one of the most important ceremonies of the event takes place: the procession and blessing of the image of Santa Iria. cm-faro.pt+3sulinformacao.pt+3NiT+3
Program and news for 2025
For the 2024 edition, structural and programming innovations have already been announced: new entrance porticos, reorganization of catering areas and tents for institutional entities, as well as a Popular Stage closer to the restaurant space and a greater artistic offering throughout the days. sulinformacao.pt+2NiT+2 By 2025, these improvements are expected to be reaffirmed and even expanded.
During the ten days of the fair, the public will be able to enjoy:
- Stands of regional products, crafts, commerce and local industry;
- Restaurant areas with typical Algarve cuisine;
- Fun for all ages — from carousels and Ferris wheels to traditional bumper cars;
- Cultural activities, music, folklore and popular entertainment;
- Religious ceremonies in honor of Saint Iria, with a solemn mass and procession on Sunday, October 20th. avozdoalgarve.pt+2sulinformacao.pt+2
Furthermore, to facilitate access for visitors, it is planned that the Pontinha Park operate with free parking on weekdays, and a temporary taxi rank will be created on the premises. Facebook+1
Economic and cultural impact
The Santa Iria Fair remains an important driver of local economic growth. With more than 100 exhibitors involved in recent editions, the event allows the promotion of regional products and the reinforcement of the visibility of cultural and commercial agents in the Algarve. NiT+3The Portugal News+3cm-faro.pt+3
For visitors—both local and international—it's an opportunity to immerse themselves in Algarve traditions, experiencing flavors, memories, and artistic expressions that span generations.
Useful tips for those who are going to visit
Check the official program: some performances and events have specific times—it's worth planning ahead to avoid missing key moments.
Check opening times: in recent years, business days have started around 9:00 am 5:00 p.m. (and last until midnight), while on weekends the opening hours are earlier and the venue stays open until 1:00 am. More Algarve+2sulinformacao.pt+2
Wear comfortable shoes: Largo de São Francisco and surrounding areas are easy to walk.
Try the local cuisine: among the stalls and taverns, there are snacks and regional specialties (farturas, traditional sweets, etc.).
