4th Marine Forests Festival
The 4th edition of the Marine Forests Festival takes place from May 13 to 22, 2026, in Vila Nova de Milfontes. The programme includes marine conservation awareness activities, scientific knowledge sharing, and coastal environment exploration.
The Marine Forests Festival returns to Vila Nova de Milfontes for its 4th edition, from May 13 to 22, 2026, with ten days of initiatives dedicated to environmental awareness and the discovery of the Vicentine Coast's marine ecosystems. This unique festival combines science, culture, and gastronomy in one of Portugal's most beautiful coastal settings.
Organised by CCMAR – Centre of Marine Sciences of the Algarve, in partnership with Colégio Nossa Senhora da Graça, Odemira Municipality, and the University of the Algarve, the festival offers a diverse set of experiences. Participants can look forward to scientific knowledge-sharing sessions, active coastal discovery activities, and initiatives raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation.
Among the scheduled activities, a thematic lunch dedicated to marine algae stands out on May 17, celebrating the gastronomic, nutritional, and cultural value of these marine organisms. This is just one of many experiences connecting the local community, scientists, students, and visitors around the importance of marine forests for ocean balance.
Vila Nova de Milfontes is one of the gems of the Odemira municipality, situated at the mouth of the Mira River within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. The town offers stunning beaches, cuisine rich in fish and seafood, and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for those seeking to combine learning with leisure.
The festival is an unmissable opportunity for families, nature lovers, and those curious about marine science who wish to discover the richness of Portuguese coastal ecosystems in a welcoming and educational environment. Check the full programme with the organisers as the date approaches.
