Unmissable Christmas Events in Porto

The joy of Christmas lies in the beauty of a season that inspires generosity, compassion, and joy. This is when people’s hearts warm, family ties strengthen, and solidarity grows. Among the twinkling lights, festive melodies, and comforting aromas, we find a unique atmosphere that transcends cultural barriers. Christmas is a time for sharing smiles, creating memories, and reflecting on the fundamental values of love and solidarity.

To mark this Christmas season throughout the city of Porto, here are five events that are worth visiting:

Spiritus at Clérigos Church: A truly magical immersive show taking place in the iconic Clérigos Church in the city of Oporto. Having welcomed more than 100,000 visitors, it was awarded the title of “Most Remarkable Venue” at Tiqets’ Global Remarkable Venue Awards 2023, and it returns once again to this majestic church. It’s an experience for all ages, accessible any day of the week, from 9 am to 11 pm.

The Nutcracker at Casa da Música: On December 22nd at 9 pm and December 23rd at 6 pm, performed by the Orquestra Simfónica do Porto (Oporto Symphony Orchestra), Casa da Música hosts this magic Christmas Ballet written by Tchaikovsky. This event is associated with the Christmas season in which toys magically come to life. These concerts will take place in the Suggia Room.

Christmas markets in Porto: Dotted around the city, spreading the magic of the season with their typical decorations, seasonal lights, and the scent of Christmas sweets wafting through the air. These markets are located all over the city, such as Praça da Batalha, Jardim da Cordoaria, the emblematic Bolhão Market, the fascinating Ateneu, and other markets from Vila Nova de Gaia to Matosinhos, Maia, and even Vila do Conde.

Christmas concerts on Avenida dos Aliados: Throughout December, several Christmas concerts are held, closing on the 23rd with a special moment featuring the singer Sofia Escobar from Guimarães. She, one of the most sought-after national voices for international musical shows, will join the Bonjóia Youth Orchestra in an unprecedented concert. The event starts at 6 pm and features the great songs of the season.

Christmas Eve Concert at the Church of São Nicolau: On the 24th of December, at 11:30 am, in the Church of São Nicolau, a concert with Sonata no. 1, in G minor, BWV 1001, and Partita no. 2, in D minor, BWV 1004, for solo violin by Johann Sebastian Bach. These Bach themes will be played by Gaspar Santos on the violin.

Christmas is a celebration that unites people, regardless of their origins, around universal messages of hope and renewal, reaffirming the importance of kindness and human connection. What better way to highlight this fact than with the Christmas festivities?