XXIV FARTUNA – International Academic Tunas Festival of Faro
The XXIV FARTUNA returns to Faro with two days celebrating the tuna tradition. Features the traditional Serenade at Largo do Carmo and the Show Night at Teatro das Figuras with tunas from across the country.
The XXIV FARTUNA – International Festival of Academic Tunas of the City of Faro takes place on March 28 and 29, 2026, organised by Versus Tuna – the Academic Tuna of the University of the Algarve. This is one of the oldest and most prestigious tuna festivals in southern Portugal, celebrating the rich tradition of academic student music.
The programme kicks off on Friday, March 28, at 10:00 PM, with the traditional Serenade Night at Largo do Carmo, in the heart of Faro's historic centre. This is one of the festival's most beautiful traditions, with the tunas singing outdoors in one of the city's most iconic squares, creating a magical atmosphere of fellowship and music. Admission is free.
On Saturday, March 29, the festival moves to Teatro das Figuras, where the Show Night begins at 8:30 PM. Four tunas compete for the title: TUL – University Tuna of Lisbon; TOKUSKOPUS – Academic Orchestra Tuna; Tuna de Medicina de La Laguna (Spain); and TUMa – University Tuna of Madeira.
As special guests performing outside the competition are Feminis Ferventis and Real Tuna Infantina, both from the University of the Algarve, along with the Farense Folk Group as the invited group. It is a vibrant celebration of university culture and traditional music that bridges generations.
FARTUNA is a unique cultural experience for those visiting Faro in March, offering the opportunity to experience one of the most authentic traditions of Portuguese academic life in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. For more information, contact [email protected].
