Easter in the Algarve

When it comes to Easter in the Algarve, the region really knows how to celebrate. You might have your own Easter traditions, but if you've decided to go on holiday then the Algarve is a great choice!

At SandyBlue, we want to help you make the Easter 2023 in the Algarve a trip you will never forget. It is an important time for the Portuguese people, so you can guarantee good food, cultural festivals and a great atmosphere.

Easter in Portugal - why it's important

As a devout and religious country, Easter is a true celebration in Portugal. The entire week, starting from Palm Sunday, is celebrated with processions and religious traditions. In 2023, Palm Sunday is April 2nd with Easter Sunday the following week on April 9th.

Easter Sunday is definitely a time for family, so the Algarve is the perfect place to bring yours for Easter! While shops will be closed, you can prepare ahead of time - many people make a traditional Lamb dinner. Easter Monday is not a public holiday, though many locals take the day off for extra family time and even more delicious food. Sounds great, right?

Easter events in the Algarve

Should you want to embrace the Algarve's traditional approach to Easter and experience the culture, you won't be disappointed. If you're looking for family fun, there will be plenty going on.

• Festa da Mãe Soberana/Feast of the Sovereign Mother - Loulé: This is one of the biggest processions in the country, taking place on Easter Sunday. It is a solemn procession in celebration of Easter, though it is a fantastic event to witness. The procession even ends with a firework display!
• Easter Dance Camp - From April 3rd, The Campus in Quinta do Lago will be running dance camp for children to get into the dancing spirit!
• Soccer Camp - The Campus will also be running Soccer camp from April 3rd for aspiring football stars!
• Rugby Camp with Brian O'Driscoll - Former captain for Ireland, Brian O'Driscoll, is on hand to give young rugby fans an unforgettable experience from April 10th. Suitable for ages 5 to 15.
• Watersports - The usual watersports fun will be available at Artur's Watersports Academy

Where to eat

Should you choose to stay in your villa or apartment for the main Easter dates, there will be plenty of supermarkets to stock up on all the essentials. Should you want to organise a delivery, our team will be able to help before your arrival.

If you want to explore the restaurants of the Algarve at Easter, here's where you can go during your stay...

• Monty’s - Perfect for families, couples and groups of friends, Monty’s offers a tasty international menu
• Sandbanks - Overlooking the sparkling Atlantic ocean on Vale do Lobo beach, Sandbanks is the perfect place to enjoy a light breakfast, a lazy lunch or a romantic dinner
• The Shack - A laid back and rustic lakeside hangout, this is a great place to enjoy comforting food in a chilled setting. There will also be live music to enjoy, while the family day takes place on Apil 14th
• BJ’s Oceanside - One of our favourite places, BJ’s Oceanside is right on the beach and offers fresh seafood that you really have to try. It’s always lively too, with live music and lots of dancing.
• Julia’s - The Algarve's most loved beach restaurant. Having been around since 1976, Julia’s continues to serve great food in a beautiful location.
• Bovino's Steakhouse - Enjoy an Easter brunch with an exquisite BBQ! You can enjoy this from April 10th until April 17th.
• Casa da Lago - A fabulous menu and location, where you can enjoy an Easter lunch with the family

Though we mentioned that a traditional lamb dinner is a popular choice, there are many other dishes you should try. Folar is a traditional cake with cinnamon and honey, originating in Olhão. Think of it as the Portuguese alternative to the English hot cross bun. Cabrito assado is another popular dish, which is roast baby goat.

(Note, due to religious observation in the country, some shops and restaurants might be closed on Easter Sunday - be sure to check ahead of time to get your plan in place!)

Book an Easter holiday in the Algarve with SandyBlue

There is plenty of fun to be had at Easter time. With availability on some of our best villas and apartments, get in touch with the team today and secure a wonderful holiday in the Algarve.