Porto festivities make June one of the best times to visit the city. Air Invictus and São João (St. John’s Day) are more than just celebrations; they are events that draw thousands of people to the banks of the Douro River each year to witness air shows, the release of paper lanterns, and fireworks.
Here’s everything you need to know about these two iconic celebrations so you can add them to your list of things to do this summer in Portugal. Remember that these are busy times in Porto, so if you plan to attend, we recommend booking your accommodation as soon as possible.
Air Invictus
From June 19 to 21, drones, aerial acrobatics, and air shows will take over the skies over Porto. Specifically, Air Invictus will take place in Porto, Gaia, Maia, and Matosinhos. The events on the 19th will be held in Maia and Matosinhos.
On Saturday the 20th, the National Defense Industry Fair, known as the Eyes in the Sky Fair, will open in Porto. The exhibition will be open at Alfândega do Porto from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for aviation and technology enthusiasts interested in exploring aircraft, drones, UAVs, launch systems, and satellites. It will be open until the 22nd.
In the afternoon, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., a DJ battle will liven up the riverbanks of Gaia and Porto. Then, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the competition and aerial acrobatics will begin between the Arrábida Bridge and the Dom Luís I Bridge. At midnight, from 12:00 a.m. to 12:15 a.m., a coordinated flight of a thousand drones will attempt to break a European record, flying from the Serra do Pilar Barracks to the Dom Luís I Bridge.
On Sunday the 21st, there will be electronic music and aerial displays at the same times as the previous day, giving visitors another opportunity to enjoy the event’s spectacular aviation programme. The difference will be the closing ceremony, which will feature the awards presentation at Cais de Gaia next to the cable car from 8:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Hotel Carrís Porto Ribeira, in addition to offering exceptional views to enjoy the show from the comfort of the hotel’s terrace, will present a themed cocktail inspired by the spirit of Air Invictus at its Nomadik Bar.
Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you to kick off the summer with a rush of adrenaline:
São João
Just a few days later, on June 23, comes one of Porto’s most anticipated nights of the year arrives: São João Night. A lively festival open to the public awaits on the iconic Rua Infante D. Henrique. Jumping over bonfires, releasing paper lanterns, and enjoying traditional food are just some of the activities that make this a magical night.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, you can immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere, with music, street parties, and the most traditional flavors of Portuguese cuisine. Grilled sardines, bifanas, caldo verde, and drinks will be available throughout the night, offering an authentic experience in the heart of Ribeira.
Guests at Carrís Porto Ribeira will have access to an exclusive terrace with panoramic views of the Ribeira, where they’ll be invited to toast one of Porto’s most iconic nights and watch the spectacular fireworks.
With Carrís, you decide whether to experience the festivities among the crowd or from the comfort of your room. For availability and reservations, please contact: portoribeira.rec@carrishoteles.com.
