Portugal comes alive with festive charm during the Christmas season, offering a rich blend of cultural and culinary delights. From Portuguese Christmas food, like the beloved bacalhau and sweet treats such as Bolo Rei, to unique traditions like the Madeiros de Natal bonfires, the season is full of magic. Wondering where to spend Christmas in Portugal? Whether it’s exploring the twinkling lights of Lisbon, the historic streets of Porto, or the tranquil villages of the Algarve, Portugal offers unforgettable Christmas experiences steeped in warmth and tradition. Want to know more about Portuguese Christmas traditions? This is how Christmas is celebrated in Portugal.
- What is Christmas called in Portugal?
- "Bananeiro” de Braga (Braga’s Banana Tree)
- Madeiros bonfires
- Caretos de Varge
- The Pinheiro de Guimarães Christmas tree
- Magusto da Velha and the old lady's chestnuts
- Viana do Castelo’s Christmas Tree
- What do the Portuguese eat at Christmas?
- Portugal Christmas weather
- Where to spend Christmas in Portugal
What is Christmas called in Portugal?
If you're spending Christmas, or "Natal," in Portugal, it's important to know how to wish everyone a Merry Christmas in the local language. The most common greeting is "Feliz Natal," which means "Merry Christmas." However, you can also say "Boas Festas," which translates to "Happy Holidays" and is a more general phrase, covering both Christmas and the New Year.
"Bananeiro” de Braga (Braga’s Banana Tree)
This is a relatively modern Christmas tradition in Portugal that started around 40 years ago, when several friends gathered on the 24th of December at an old tavern called “Casa das Bananas”, in Braga. The idea was to wish everyone “Merry Christmas” while having a glass of Moscatel de Setúbal, accompanied by a banana. The tavern was a fruit warehouse back in the day, so the owner and his son decided to serve their liquor with a banana, combining the two sides of the business.
Nowadays, on the 24th of December, folks continue to assemble at the pub. If you happen to be in the vicinity, a visit to "Casa das Bananas" or "Bananeiro," as it's commonly known, is nearly a must. Here, one can enjoy a glass of Moscatel paired with a banana – either purchased at the bar or brought from home. It's only after this simple yet delightful ritual, with a satisfied stomach and the backdrop of street music, that people make their way home to enjoy their Christmas dinner with family.
Madeiros bonfires
In Portugal, the "Madeiros" (also known as "Madeiros de Natal" or "Fogueiras do Galo") are traditional bonfires lit on Christmas Eve, typically following the "Missa do Galo" midnight mass. These bonfires burn throughout the night and are a cherished part of Portuguese Christmas traditions. Widespread in the north and central regions, particularly in inland areas, the bonfires symbolise a celebration of the sun's return. This ancient tradition draws inspiration from pagan festivals honouring the Winter Solstice, marking the renewal of light and warmth during the darkest time of the year.
Caretos de Varge
The Caretos de Varge is a unique tradition from the town of Varge, located in the Trás-os-Montes region, celebrating the Winter Solstice. On Christmas Eve, single boys from the village prepare for the festivities, and on December 25th, they run through the streets dressed as Caretos, wearing pagan masks. Jumping, shouting, and teasing, they create chaos to symbolise the departure of the cold, inviting fun and joy to return. As they go from house to house, they sing "loas", satirical songs that poke fun at villagers, while enjoying the food offerings. The day ends with a race followed by a dinner and dance, symbolising the union of the town's girls and boys.
The Pinheiro de Guimarães Christmas tree
In the crisp winter air, the festivities dedicated to St. Nicholas come alive, particularly on November 29th in the Minho region of Portugal. This unique tradition draws thousands of people from Guimarães and the surrounding area, with a remarkable procession centred around a bull cart carrying a massive Christmas tree. As night falls, the tree is erected in the heart of the celebration, surrounded by a lively crowd.
St. Nicholas, the inspiration for the modern Santa Claus, is at the heart of this tradition, which dates back to the Saint Nicholas Brotherhood, known for organising an annual Christmas dinner. The day begins with the cutting of the tree at dawn, followed by its journey through the village. The tree is decorated to the sound of traditional Portuguese Christmas music, creating a joyful and meaningful celebration that continues to be cherished by the community.
Magusto da Velha and the old lady's chestnuts
Another Christmas tradition in Portugal takes place on 26th December in Portugal, and this unique local celebration takes place in memory of a wealthy old woman (Velha), whose name is unknown and who decided to donate chestnuts and wine to the townspeople in exchange for a prayer in her name during Christmastime.
Even nowadays, the day after Christmas every year, the people of Aldeia Viçosa go the church square to climb up the church tower. Once they are up there, tradition states that they must throw chestnuts (around 150kg of them) into the remains of the Madeiro bonfire that had been lit in the square.
The Town Hall then hands out wine to the people to accompany their roasted chestnuts and everyone spends the afternoon telling stories about Christmases past.
Viana do Castelo’s Christmas Tree
Portuguese Christmas decorations are also an important part of the holiday season. But how do the Portuguese decorate for Christmas? With Christmas trees of course! And this is no different in the city of Viana do Castelo which prides itself on having the tallest Christmas tree in Europe, or so they say.
Every December, a group of brave young men undertake the thrilling challenge of scaling a centuries-old tree that rises several hundred meters high for the annual decoration ritual. This daring task is reserved for those who embrace adventure. Positioned in the same spot each year, the tree becomes a focal point, drawing thousands of spectators. Located near the Santa Luzia lift, at the intersection of Avenida 25 de Abril and Rua Doutor Tiago de Almeida, it stands as a captivating symbol of Christmas cheer. Beyond its festive appeal, this spot offers a perfect place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit of Portugal.
What do the Portuguese eat at Christmas?
Food plays a central role in Christmas celebrations in Portugal, with special dishes and sweet treats prepared, sold, and enjoyed throughout the festive season. Each region and even each family has its own unique traditions. Today, roasted lamb, goatling, and sometimes even turkey are the main Christmas Day meals, while bacalhau (salted cod), a quintessential Portuguese dish, remains a staple at the Christmas table. The festive spread is complemented by a variety of desserts and sweets. Above all, Christmas food in Portugal creates the perfect atmosphere for family gatherings and cherished moments of togetherness.
Portugal Christmas weather
Portugal generally has a mild climate in December, but temperatures can vary depending on the region.
- Southern Portugal (e.g., the Algarve) tends to be the warmest, with temperatures often ranging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F), although it can occasionally dip lower at night.
- Central and Northern Portugal (including cities like Lisbon, Porto, and the interior) can be cooler, with daytime temperatures around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F). It may also experience occasional rain or even snow in higher altitudes, particularly in places like the Serra da Estrela mountains.
Overall, while not hot, Portugal’s Christmas weather is generally mild compared to much of Europe, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a winter break with moderate temperatures.
Where to spend Christmas in Portugal
If you're wondering where to spend Christmas in Portugal, there are plenty of beautiful destinations to choose from. From the festive streets of Lisbon and Porto to the serene beauty of the Algarve, Portugal offers a mix of lively celebrations and peaceful retreats. For more details on the best places to enjoy a Christmas getaway in Portugal, check out our guide.
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