Ethno Portugal 2026 – Concert at Arraiolos Castle
Around 35 young musicians from 15 countries gather in Arraiolos for a folk-music artistic residency. The highlight is the open-air final concert at Arraiolos Castle, part of the 'Thursdays at the Castle' series.
Ethno Portugal 2026 returns to the Alentejo town of Arraiolos from 30 July to 10 August 2026, for another edition of one of the country's most exciting traditional-music residencies. Organised by the PédeXumbo association in partnership with the Municipality of Arraiolos and Casa das Artes de Arraiolos, Ethno brings together around 35 young musicians, aged 18 to 30, from 15 different countries.
Over twelve days, participants share an intense experience of learning and exchange, teaching and learning music from their home cultures in a collaborative, non-hierarchical environment. The result is an 'ephemeral orchestra' that blends folk traditions from around the world into original and surprising arrangements.
Throughout the residency, the young musicians also deepen their connection with the local culture, collaborating with the cante singing group of Casa das Artes de Arraiolos and immersing themselves in the traditions of the Alentejo. This exchange between the universal and the local lies at the heart of Ethno, an international movement dedicated to safeguarding and revitalising traditional music among younger generations.
The most anticipated moment for visitors is the final concert, presented in Arraiolos as part of the municipal 'Thursdays at the Castle' (Quintas-feiras no Castelo) initiative. In the unique setting of the Praça de Armas at Arraiolos Castle, under the stars and between centuries-old walls, audiences can enjoy a vibrant, multicultural show, a true musical journey across the globe.
For tourists exploring the Alentejo in August, this is an unmissable event: a rare chance to hear traditional music from several continents in one of the most iconic monuments of the town famous for its Arraiolos rugs. Visitors are advised to confirm the exact concert date and time with the Municipality of Arraiolos or PédeXumbo before travelling.
