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Serralves em Festa : 50 Uren Non-Stop Hedendaagse Kunst & Cultuur in Porto
Porto is known for its azulejos, port wine and historic charm, but one event takes the city to the next level in terms of contemporary art every year: Serralves em Festa. In 2026, this iconic festival will celebrate its 20th edition and promises to be another unforgettable experience. From 29 to 31 May 2026, the Fundação Serralves – including the museum, the Art Deco villa, the extensive park and the Casa do Cinema – will transform into a vibrant, non-stop cultural paradise for more than 50 hours.
This free festival is not just any event: it is the largest contemporary art event in Portugal and one of the most notable in Europe. Here you can read everything you need to know to plan your visit.
What exactly is Serralves em Festa?
Serralves em Festa is a multidisciplinary festival that celebrates art, culture and inclusivity. It combines hundreds of activities for all ages and tastes:
Live music (from experimental to indie and electronic)
Dance and theatre performances
Contemporary circus acts
Installations and exhibitions
Film screenings
Educational workshops and interactive experiences
The festival activates the entire Serralves site: Álvaro Siza's iconic museum, the beautiful gardens and park, and the Casa do Cinema. Everything runs non-stop, day and night, creating a unique, almost magical atmosphere – especially at night when light installations and performances illuminate the park.
In 2026, the theme ‘Novos Horizontes’ will take centre stage: exploring new perspectives, crossing disciplines and imagining future possibilities through art, architecture, cinema, environment and landscape.
Dates and practical information for Serralves em Festa
Date: 29 May 2026 (starting in the evening) to 31 May 2026 (ending late at night)
Duration: Over 50 hours of non-stop programming
Location: Fundação Serralves, Porto (Rua Dom João de Castro 210, 4150-417 Porto)
Admission: Completely free – no tickets required!
Accessibility: Easy to reach by metro (line A to Casa da Música + bus), tram or bicycle. Arrive early or stay overnight in the area if you want to experience everything.
Tip: Check the official website (serralves.pt or serralvesemfesta.com) just before the event for the full programme, as the line-up is often only announced a few months in advance.
Why Serralves em Festa is a must-see when you're in Porto
Unique blend of art and nature The festival takes place in one of Europe's most beautiful cultural complexes: Serralves Park, with its 18 hectares of gardens, sculptures and architecture.
International and local talent Hundreds of Portuguese and international artists perform – from emerging talent to established names.
Inclusive and accessible Programme for families, young people, art lovers and night owls. Everyone is welcome.
Free admission At a time when festivals are often expensive, Serralves em Festa offers high-quality culture without barriers.
Perfect to combine with Porto Visit the museum or temporary exhibitions (such as Jenny Holzer or Maurizio Cattelan in 2025/2026) during the day, and dive into the festival in the evening.
Tips for a successful visit to Serralves em Festa
Come prepared: Bring comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking!
Charge your phone: Handy for navigation and the programme.
Food & drink: There are food trucks and bars on site.
Accommodation: Book a hotel in Foz do Douro or the centre of Porto – ideally accessible.
Weather: The end of May is often pleasant (15-25°C), but bring a jacket for the night.
Serralves em Festa is more than a festival: it is a celebration of creativity, diversity and the power of art in public spaces. Whether you are a seasoned culture lover or just fancy something special in Porto – this is the moment to discover the city from a different angle.
Are you already planning to attend Serralves em Festa ? Share your favourite moment from previous editions in the comments, or tag a friend you want to go with! For the latest updates, follow @fundacao_serralves on Instagram or check the official website.
