Our Lady of Nazaré Festival 2026
Religious celebration honoring Our Lady of Nazaré, the town's patron saint, featuring processions, solemn masses and cultural activities at the historic Sítio Sanctuary. One of Nazaré's oldest and most emblematic traditions.
The Our Lady of Nazaré Festival is one of Portugal's oldest and most important religious festivities, celebrating the patron saint of the fishing village of Nazaré. On June 4, 2026, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, located at the top of the Sítio cliff, will be the main stage for this celebration uniting faith, tradition and popular culture.
The history of this devotion dates back to the 12th century when, according to legend, D. Fuas Roupinho was miraculously saved by the Virgin's intervention while falling from the cliff during a hunt. Since then, thousands of pilgrims visit this sacred place every year, making Nazaré one of Portugal's main Marian centers.
During the festival, visitors can attend solemn masses, processions carrying the image of Our Lady of Nazaré through the streets of Sítio, prayer moments and traditional hymns. The streets fill with color and devotion, featuring flower carpets, typical ornamentation and the presence of philharmonic bands.
Beyond the religious dimension, the event integrates cultural activities celebrating local traditions: sacred art exhibitions, demonstrations of regional costumes — including the famous seven skirts worn by Nazaré women — typical gastronomy and Portuguese popular music. It is an excellent opportunity to discover the authentic soul of Nazaré.
Sítio also offers stunning views of the beach, the ocean and the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, known for the giant waves of Praia do Norte. Visitors can take advantage of their stay to explore the Suberco Viewpoint, the Memory Chapel and the Dr. Joaquim Manso Museum.
Entry to the celebrations is free. Visitors are advised to arrive early due to the significant influx of pilgrims and tourists. Access to Sítio can be made on foot, by car or via the iconic Nazaré Funicular, a century-old cable railway connecting the Beach to Sítio with unforgettable panoramic views.
