Maré de Agosto Festival 2026

The Maré de Agosto Festival returns in 2026 to the stunning Praia Formosa Bay on Santa Maria island, running from August 19–22. Founded in 1984 by a group of Azorean artists who wanted to bring live music to the island, it is today the oldest music festival in the Azores and one of Portugal's most charismatic events, organised by the Associação Cultural Maré de Agosto.

What makes this festival truly unique is its setting: the stage stands just 20 metres from the sea, in a bay of light golden sand framed by cliffs — a rarity in the Azores, where dark volcanic beaches are the norm. For four nights, Praia Formosa becomes a small global village where festival-goers from around the world join the locals to celebrate music with their feet in the sand and the Atlantic as a backdrop.

The festival's musical identity is rooted in world music, with a diverse lineup that over more than four decades has brought leading names in reggae, afrobeat, rock, Lusophone music and global sounds to Santa Maria. The 2026 edition continues that commitment to an eclectic, high-quality bill, with the full lineup available on the festival's official website.

Beyond the concerts, the Maré de Agosto experience includes the laid-back beachside campsite, swims in the ocean between sets, local food stalls and the genuine warmth that defines the 'island of the sun'. Many visitors extend their trip to explore Santa Maria: the historic town of Vila do Porto, São Lourenço Bay, Pico Alto and the famous terraced vineyards of Maia.

Tickets are on sale via the BOL platform, at the Loja da Maré (Largo Costa Santos, Vila do Porto) and, during the festival, at the Praia Formosa box office. Booking tickets, flights and accommodation early is strongly recommended, as Santa Maria fills up quickly at this time of year. One thing is certain: those who experience a Maré de Agosto always come back.