The final stretch of the year arrives, and Portugal takes on a different glow. Known as the warmest winter corner of Europe, it's no wonder: you can always count on pleasant winter sunshine, mild weather and light winds from December to February. It is not out of the question to walk on the beach at Christmas time, or to spend the afternoon on a beautiful esplanade.

But the whole country comes alive with Christmas entertainment, starting with the lights that bring joy and colour to urban centres - and not only. Christmas carols can be heard, the delights of the season can be seen filling the windows of pastry shops, from Bolo Rei to Filhoses, not forgetting Rabanadas (French toast); it is magical to experience Christmas in Portugal.

Óbidos Vila Natal, ©Câmara Municipal de Óbidos

And at the centre of this magic are the Christmas markets and fairs, which animate localities from north to south of the country. Among sweets, local products, handicrafts and Christmas gifts, it is possible to find everything at these events, which usually have a Father Christmas present, often elves and other entertainment dedicated to the theme, providing unforgettable moments for the whole family.

The markets have another glow, very Portuguese; a welcoming people, with their own genuineness that reaches the stalls. The sweets are made with love, delivered with a smile; the souvenirs are for life and are sustainable, as the local handicrafts are made from materials unique to our country, such as cork and recyclable fibres. And this year, the big holiday events are really returning to Portugal!

Aldeia Natal de Cabeça, ©Pedro Ribeiro

In Lisbon, Wonderland returns to the heart of the city, in Eduardo VII Park, between November 30 and January 1, 2024, and with it the huge Ferris wheel and the ecological ice rink. In the downtown area (Baixa), the Rossio Christmas Market is back until December 23, promising lots of fun for the whole family, as well as traditional handicraft and gastronomy stalls. Take the time to attend one of the various Christmas concerts that return to the city with the “Natal em Lisboa” (Christmas in Lisbon) programme.

Near Lisbon, Cascais transforms into a true "Christmas village" from November 30 to January 2, 2024, featuring the Christmas Market, Santa's House, an ice rink, and, of course, the usual Ferris wheel in Cascais Bay.

©Henrique Seruca/Visit Madeira

In Porto, the well-known Christmas Market takes place on Avenida das Tílias, in the Gardens of the Crystal Palace, from December 1 to 23, offering plenty of music, entertainment, workshops, crafts, and regional products. In the renovated Bolhão Market, from December 14 to 16, don't miss its first Christmas fair, an event dedicated to celebrating the colors and flavors of traditional products of this festive season. In Viseu, from December 8 to January 7, 2024, the city once again experiences the magic of Christmas through a programme full of initiatives, including the Christmas Market, workshops, shows, and concerts for both kids and adults.

But in other parts of the country, the same Christmas atmosphere can be found: in Bragança, the "Land of Nativity and Dreams" returns from December 1 to January 7, 2024, with a diverse programme throughout the city and a new attraction, a natural ice ramp, 40 meters long, promising lots of fun. In Santa Maria da Feira, it's "Perlim - A Dream Farm" that returns once again with various attractions promising a lot of magic. In Águeda, the famous and welcoming umbrellas and the "World's Largest Santa Claus" await you from November 18 to January 7, 2024.

In Seia, the Christmas Village of Cabeça is a unique celebration, using only decorations made from nature and managed by residents, welcoming visitors from December 8 to January 1, warmed by wool from the Serra da Estrela. And of course, Óbidos Christmas Village cannot be missed, which will turn into the School of Wizards to welcome all the little and big magic apprentices, from November 30 to December 31.

In Penamacor, from December 7 to 25, "Vila Madeiro" celebrates Christmas with various attractions, but the highlight is the arrival of the "madeiro" (large log) and the lighting of the bonfire in the church square, bringing together not only the locals but also tourists.

On the island of Madeira, from December 1 to January 7, the atmosphere is festive, and the entertainment is daily, with a highlight on the Market Night, December 23, and of course, the famous fireworks in Funchal Bay, December 31.

Check our agenda for more suggestions, but one thing is certain, no matter which region of Portugal you visit: you will experience a Christmas season full of color and tradition.