Date: June 27–29, 2025 | Venue: Grounds of Escola Básica de São Vicente, Vila do Bispo, Algarve
From June 27 to 29, 2025, the picturesque municipality of Vila do Bispo, located on Portugal’s stunning southwestern coast, will once again come alive with the 11th annual Festival do Perceve. This unique event pays tribute to one of the Algarve’s most cherished seafood delicacies—the perceve (gooseneck barnacle).
Often described as the “kiss of the sea,” these remarkable crustaceans are harvested from the region’s rugged Atlantic shores. As a result, they offer a distinct, briny flavor that is deeply rooted in the identity of this coastal enclave. (algarveprimeiro.com)
Culinary Experience
Throughout the festival weekend, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a diverse selection of seafood specialties, with perceves proudly taking center stage. In addition, numerous local marisqueiros (shellfish harvesters) from Vila do Bispo and the Costa Vicentina will showcase their traditional harvesting methods and culinary craftsmanship.
Besides perceves, the festival menu will also include a variety of regional delights such as mussels, limpets, cuttlefish, octopus, moray eel (moreia), and hearty seafood porridges. Altogether, the offerings celebrate the Algarve’s rich marine bounty (source: algarveprimeiro.com).
Cultural and Commercial Highlights
Moreover, the Festival do Perceve is much more than a culinary gathering. Organized by the Câmara Municipal de Vila do Bispo, in collaboration with the Associação dos Marisqueiros da Vila do Bispo e Costa Vicentina, the event also features a vibrant cultural and commercial program.
Visitors can expect:
- Live musical performances catering to various age groups
- Fun activities for children and families
- Exhibitor areas with regional crafts, traditional sweets, and local products
Thus, the festival offers a well-rounded experience for food lovers, families, and culture seekers alike.
Entertainment Line-Up
The musical entertainment across the three-day event promises to keep the energy high:
- Friday, June 27: Kick-off performance by renowned Portuguese R&B group HMB
- Saturday, June 28: Retro vibes from Festa M80, delivering a nostalgic set
- Sunday, June 29: Grand finale with a live show by popular singer Maninho
Whether you’re into modern R&B or retro classics, there’s something for every musical taste.
Tickets & Logistics
Tickets went on sale May 23 and can be purchased in several convenient ways:
- Via Ticketline
- At the municipal treasury office (until June 27 at 3:00 p.m.)
- Directly on-site during the festival
Additionally, transportation options to the venue are flexible, with access available by car, motorcycle, or on foot. For more logistical information, visitors can check visitportugal.com.
Purpose & Impact
Ultimately, the Festival do Perceve is designed to:
- Celebrate and preserve the traditional skills of local shellfish harvesters
- Promote the unique flavors of Algarve’s coastal cuisine
- Boost tourism and economic activity in the region
In fact, Vila do Bispo has been named one of Europe’s “secret gems” by Lonely Planet, with perceves hailed as “a kiss from the sea” (source: odyssey.eu).
Final Invitation
The 2025 Festival do Perceve promises a memorable blend of gastronomy, culture, and local craftsmanship. Whether you’re tasting freshly harvested perceves, dancing to live music, or exploring artisan stalls, the event offers an authentic way to experience the soul of the Costa Vicentina.
Contact Information:
📞 +351 282 630 600
📧 geral@cm-viladobispo.pt
🌐 www.cm-viladobispo.pt
Prepare to immerse yourself in coastal flavors and warm community spirit—Vila do Bispo awaits you this June.