Lagos will host the first Algarve Boat Festival this weekend, on August 29. Organised by SeaBookings and supported by both Lagos Council and Lagos Marina, the festival will take place at sea, in front of Praia Dona Ana.
Using one boat as the main “stage” where the artists will perform, other boats will anchor close by allowing festival goers to enjoy themselves but in their own “bubble” – social distancing with the opportunity to dance and have fun.
Due to COVID-19, the festival is considered to be a “safer alternative” to the annual parties held to celebrate Banho 29 – where people enjoy a midnight swim and a night-time picnic on Meia Praia and Praia da Batata.
The origins of Banho 29 are uncertain, it is thought to be late-summer rites or of Arab heritage. People used to arrive by donkey, mule and cart to take a swim in the sea during the night of August 29 but nowadays, you will find people roasting chouriço, telling stories over picnics on the beach, followed by a swim in the sea at midnight.
Those taking part in this year’s festival, which is expected to last three hours, will meet at sea in front of Praia Dona Ana at 15.30h.
There will also be live streaming, on Lagos Council’s Facebook page, for those who want to enjoy the festival but are unable to be present.
The price of tickets ranges from €15 to €1,000 – you can take your own boat, share a boat with others or charter a boat through the organisers.
For more information and to book tickets click here.