Estremoz City Festival - Exaltation of the Holy Cross
The traditional Estremoz City Festival returns to Rossio Marquês de Pombal from September 4-6, with free concerts by José Cid, Átoa and Os Vouguinhas. Three days of music, religious tradition and street entertainment for the whole family.
Every year, on the first weekend of September, the city of Estremoz dresses up for celebration to mark the Festas da Exaltação da Santa Cruz (Festival of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross), one of the most anticipated moments on the local calendar. Organized by the Estremoz Municipal Council in partnership with the Parish of Santo André, the event takes place at the iconic Rossio Marquês de Pombal, in the heart of the city, from September 4 to 6, 2026.
The musical lineup is one of the festival's biggest draws, with free admission to all concerts. Os Vouguinhas take the stage on September 4, followed on September 5 by a highly anticipated performance from veteran José Cid, an icon of Portuguese music, with the band Átoa closing out the festivities on September 6.
Beyond the music, the festival keeps alive the religious tradition that gave rise to the celebration, with traditional ceremonies honoring the Exaltation of the Holy Cross taking place throughout the three days. The atmosphere is further enlivened by a quermesse (charity fair), raffles, amusement stalls and street entertainment, recreating the spirit of a genuine Alentejo popular festival.
Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of typical local food, with stalls serving grilled chicken, bifanas, pão com chouriço (bread with sausage), talassas and various regional sweets, perfect for accompanying the festive evenings. The program culminates with a fireworks display, one of the highlights that draws thousands of visitors and residents to the city's historic center.
Estremoz, known as the "Queen of the Alentejo" for its imposing medieval castle and marble production, offers during these festivities an excellent opportunity to experience the city in a lively, community-driven atmosphere. Proceeds generated during the event go toward supporting families in need in the region, reinforcing the charitable character of this centuries-old tradition.
For anyone visiting the Alentejo in September, this is not-to-be-missed occasion to experience Alentejo hospitality, great local food and an authentic display of Portuguese popular culture, all set against the historic backdrop of Rossio Marquês de Pombal, flanked by centuries-old buildings and a short walk from Estremoz Castle.