Every July, the city of Ribeira Grande transforms for its largest event of the year: the Feira Quinhentista! This medieval festival, running from July 9th to 13th, is a unique celebration that transports visitors back to the 16th century with a vibrant display of history, entertainment, and local culture.

While medieval festivals are common on mainland Portugal—with famous ones in places like Óbidos, Santa Maria da Feira, and Silves—the Feira Quinhentista is the only one of its kind in the Azores. This makes it a truly special event for both locals and visitors to the islands.

The streets come alive with stage performers, craft vendors selling unique products, and bustling stalls offering traditional food and drink. It’s a sensory feast that truly immerses you in the spirit of the era. One of the most spectacular highlights of the festival is the fire show, which lights up the night on both Saturday and Sunday. The dazzling displays of light and flame are truly a sight to behold!

While I often attend these events as a vendor, this time I was able to relax and enjoy the incredible entertainment. The festival featured numerous drumming groups, including the unique and powerful “Vai De Caja,” who impressed everyone with their rhythmic drumming using large sticks.

The Feira Quinhentista is a must-see event, offering an unforgettable experience for the whole family and a fantastic way to celebrate the rich history and vibrant community of Ribeira Grande.