Obidos Medieval Fair 2024

Óbidos is preparing for its annual Medieval Fair, held from the 18th-28th July 2024, and this guide offers a unique perspective on the celebration as well as the highlights of the town itself.

History of the Fair

Set in the shadow of its medieval castle, the historic town of Obidos, with its whitewashed houses and quaint cobbled streets, this month is host to its annual Medieval Fair. From the 18^th – 28^th July 2024, the town is transformed into a bustling merchant town, and attracts hundreds of locals and tourists alike. This recreation of King Denis and Queen Isabel of Aragon’s visit to the town in the Middle Ages has recently become a huge event in the social calendar of this region, and is a fantastic attraction for all ages, especially for those with children.

Entry to the Fair

The Fair is reasonably priced (10€ per adult per day/8€ for kids), with discounts for groups and seniors, as well as reduced entry for those dressed in period costumes! These are easy to hire for the day and are highly recommended to immerse yourself in the experience even more.

Attractions

Some of the main attractions include theatre, music and comedy performances (these are mostly in Portuguese but are easy to follow along with) as well as the much-loved Knight and Horse show.

Jousting and sword fighting adds to the atmosphere, as well as lots of stalls selling arts and handicrafts, including flower crowns which are very popular. There is also a wealth of great local cuisine to try as well, and the celebrations carry on well into the night.

Experience Packages

For those who want a more personalised adventure, one of the packages offered may be more appealing which include visits to the recreated military camp, medieval farm and a falconry encounter, all making for an amazing experience at an extra cost.

Óbidos and its Pousadas

The town of Obidos itself is well worth the visit, full of history and character, it is a cultural highlight of this beautiful region of Portugal. Whilst the Medieval Fair is a great chance to experience a sense of the region’s past, the town also hosts an annual Chocolate Festival, Jazz performances and a Christmas Market.

Despite the village’s small size, Óbidos is popular with visitors and the local tourist office offers guided cultural tours of the local area, as well as recommendations for the nearby lagoon. Whilst visiting Óbidos you must make sure to try the local cherry liqueur, Ginja, which is available throughout the town in many of the local bars and restaurants.

The main Pousada, in the Castelo de Óbidos, is situated right in the middle of the festival grounds overlooking the town below and offers a truly unique experience. With only 12 bedrooms split across the castle, the cottages and the castle towers, you can enjoy a feeling of exclusivity as you look out over the castellated walls and into the historic courtyard. The Pousada’s restaurant looks out across the town and plains and offers a mixture of regional and international cuisine.

In addition to the main Pousada, guests can also stay in the Pousad Vila Óbidos and Casa Lidador which occupy historic houses in the centre of the village.

Great places to visit

Livraria de Santiago – this converted church now holds a bookshop, which stocks both Portuguese and English titles. Óbidos is home to an annual literary festival and was named a UNESCO Creative City of Literature in 2015.

Porta da Vila – the beautiful entrance to the town, decorated with Portugal’s famous blue and white azujelo tiles.
Aqueducto da Ussiera – 16^th century aqueduct that withstood the 1755 earthquake and is still completely intact today.