Celebrate St Martin's Day: chestnuts, wine and traditions

Saint Martin’s Day, celebrated on the 11th of November, is a special date on the Portuguese calendar, especially in the Algarve, where the tradition is embraced with enthusiasm. In Portimão, the Saint Martin’s Fair is an unmissable annual event, filled with colour, flavours, and history, drawing residents and visitors for a lively and authentic gathering. Since medieval times, Saint Martin’s Day has symbolised the chestnut harvest and the opening of the new wine – an ideal moment to celebrate the good harvests and the beginning of autumn. This article delves into the traditions of this day and suggests ways to make the most of it, celebrating the cultural and gastronomic richness of the Algarve.

What is Saint Martin’s Day?
Saint Martin’s Day is a celebration dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, a saint revered for his generosity and compassion. This date, which marks the opening of the new wine, is the perfect time to roast chestnuts, open a good bottle of regional wine, and gather friends and family. In Portimão, this tradition takes on a special flair with the Saint Martin’s Fair, a popular event that attracts thousands of visitors for a unique experience, rich in flavours and culture.

Saint Martin’s Fair in Portimão: an authentic experience
The Saint Martin’s Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Portimão, is a highlight of the celebrations. From the 8th to the 17th of November, the city transforms into a vibrant stage, offering everything from regional products to entertainment for all ages. The food stalls stand out with roasted chestnuts, local delicacies, and regional wines. There is also a great variety of handicrafts and traditional products, making the fair the perfect place to discover the best of the Algarve and to take home unique souvenirs.

How to celebrate at home: tips and inspiration
If you can’t visit Portimão, you can still bring the spirit of Saint Martin’s Day into your home. Here are a few suggestions to make your celebration even more special:

• Roasting chestnuts in the oven or on the fireplace: nothing evokes Saint Martin’s Day more than the aroma of roasted chestnuts. You can prepare them in the oven, on the fireplace, or even in a pan. Sprinkle with coarse salt and enjoy the comforting taste.

• Choosing an Algarvian wine: pair your chestnuts with a good wine from the region, be it a red or a young wine. The Algarve’s wine production offers various options that enhance the flavour of chestnuts and create a perfect pairing for autumn days.

• Autumn-inspired decor: create a cosy atmosphere with elements typical of autumn, such as dried leaves and candles

Whether you plan to visit the Saint Martin’s Fair in Portimão or simply celebrate at home, this day is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Portuguese traditions and to celebrate with the flavours of the Algarve. The roasted chestnuts, Algarvian wine, and conviviality make this a special occasion, celebrating autumn and inviting moments of sharing.

Enjoy this season and celebrate the traditions of the Algarve!