What's happening in Porto: 27 March - 2 April 2023
Easter markets, French pasty showcase, Trans Visibility Day, and more.
Spring is here, and we’re all spending more time outside! What are your fave outdoor activities or spots to hang out in Porto? Let us know (just reply to this email) and we’ll share some ideas from around the Porto Social Club community in the next newsletter!
Monday, 27 March
French pasty showcase, at Mercado do Bolhão, starts 11h
Chef Rodrigo Soares will select fresh products from Bolhão's stalls to prepare two recipes: a leek quiche and a fresh raspberry tartlet. This free class will be held in Cozinha Bolhão – Meireles (located on the middle level of the central staircase).
Terracotta army exhibit, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-18h30
The Terracotta Warriors arrive in Porto for the first time and transport visitors to the China of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The sculptures, which date from the late 3rd century BC, were discovered in 1974 in Xi'an, China, by local farmers starting excavations for a water well. Audio guide included but you need to bring your own headphones. Tickets start at 8€.
Tuesday, 28 March
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
Terracotta army exhibit, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-18h30
The Terracotta Warriors arrive in Porto for the first time and transport visitors to the China of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The sculptures, which date from the late 3rd century BC, were discovered in 1974 in Xi'an, China, by local farmers starting excavations for a water well. Audio guide included but you need to bring your own headphones. Tickets start at 8€.
Running club, meet-up location varies, starts at 19h
Runners and walkers of all fitness levels meet weekly to exercise and socialize. Free to join. Email Warren for more details and run location.
Requiem symphonic concert, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, 21h-22h30
This national debut of “Requiem” by the Hungarian composer Frigyes Hidas will be performed by the Portuguese Symphonic Band backed by two choirs and four soloists. Tickets start at 15€.
Movie quiz night, at Batalha Centro de Cinema, starts 22h
In the Batalha Cinema's basement cafe, Guilherme Cobretti and Jay Toso will be hosting movie trivia. It's free of charge, with no registration required.
Wednesday, 29 March
Art Therapy & Mindful Self-Compassion brunch event, at Look.Sharp, 11-12h30
Join Lindsay Parkinson, LMFT, ATR, for an exploration of self-compassion through the lens of art therapy. In this inclusive group, you’ll have a chance to spark your own creativity, reflect, write, and be in a supportive, uplifting group of peers. Donations accepted for art materials. Walk-ins allowed or email to hold your spot.
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
Terracotta army exhibit, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-18h30
The Terracotta Warriors arrive in Porto for the first time and transport visitors to the China of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The sculptures, which date from the late 3rd century BC, were discovered in 1974 in Xi'an, China, by local farmers starting excavations for a water well. Audio guide included but you need to bring your own headphones. Tickets start at 8€.
Romeo and Juliet ballet, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, 21h30-23h30
The famous Shakespeare play is transformed into a ballet. After touring across the country, this interpretation makes it way to Porto. Tickets start at 13€.
Mark your calendar: Taste wines from Portuguese producers at Vinhos a Descrobrir from 15-16 April. Get your ticket now.
Thursday, 30 March
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
Terracotta army exhibit, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-18h30
The Terracotta Warriors arrive in Porto for the first time and transport visitors to the China of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The sculptures, which date from the late 3rd century BC, were discovered in 1974 in Xi'an, China, by local farmers starting excavations for a water well. Audio guide included but you need to bring your own headphones. Tickets start at 8€.
Cook And Taste Portugal cooking class, at Pop Up Workshops, 12h-15h
Learn, prepare, and enjoy a typical Portuguese meal accompanied by local wines. Everything you need for the class is provided (in English). The cost is 45€ and advanced registration is required.
Pongo concert, at Hotel Mouco, starts 20h30
This Portuguese musician embodies the renewal of Kuduro, mixing her African, Langan, and Zairian roots with EDM, bass music, dancehall, and melodic pop. Estrella Galicia will also be performing. Tickets start at 14€.
The Last Internationale concert, at Hard Club, starts 21h
An American rock band formed by New York City guitarist Edgey Pires and vocalist Delila Paz. The group is known for its socially conscious lyrics and strong live performances. Tickets are 20€.
Aurea concert, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, 21h30-23h
Singer-songwriter Aurea celebrates 10 years performing. Singing her latest hits, including her new single "Volta." Tickets start at 20€.
Friday, 31 March
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
Terracotta army exhibit, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-18h30
The Terracotta Warriors arrive in Porto for the first time and transport visitors to the China of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The sculptures, which date from the late 3rd century BC, were discovered in 1974 in Xi'an, China, by local farmers starting excavations for a water well. Audio guide included but you need to bring your own headphones. Tickets start at 8€.
Vaccine Monologues show, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, 21h30-23h30
Don't be fooled by the name, João Baião leads a fun show that ranges from dialogues, choreographies, songs, and comedic moments. Tickets start at 20€.
Trans Visibility Day, at Praça dos Poveiros, starts 18h
Be a part of Porto’s first protest for a dignified trans and non-binary existence, as well as every person that fights for the end of discrimination against gender minorities and for their rights. Everyone is invited to make their voices heard on open mic at the end of the protest at Praça D. João I. Free to attend.
The Count of Torrefiel play, at Municipal Theater Rivoli, 19h30-21h15
The Portuguese premiere of this Spanish play about the future has been said to be a shake-up of contemporary theater (in Spanish, Portuguese, and English). Tickets are 12€.
Burlesque Festival, at Cafe Lusitano, starts 23h
The 3rd edition of the Porto Burlesque Festival is here. Tonight's theme is the Cabaresque, as artists take the stage with a glamorous and unique show. Standing-up spots: 5€. Sit-down seats: 10€. Ticket is free if you have a dinner reservation.
Até Que a Sogra nos Separe play, at Teatro Sá da Bandeira, starts 21h
"Until the Mother-in-law Separates Us" is a comedic play that addresses love crises, social differences, family confusions, and mother's love (in Portuguese). Tickets start at 15€.
French stand-up comedy, at Teatro Sá da Bandeira, starts 21h
For those looking for a laugh and who are well versed in French, this comedy show may be up your alley. Tickets start at 15€.
M!ST concert, at Hard Club, 21h-23h59
Not a lot is known about this recently started band, except that all the members come from other successful groups. Check out their first performance and see for yourself whether you're a fan. Tickets are 15,99€.
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Saturday, 1 April
Feira da Vandoma weekly flea market, at Av. 25 de Abril, 9h-18h
Find antiques, clothes, furniture, toys, books, and who knows what else at this weekly flea market. Free to attend. Since the market is outside, it is dependent on good weather.
Easter market, at Mercado do Bolhão, 10h-18h
The Balhão market gets a little bigger in advance of Easter. The gallery on the third floor will host the Easter Fair, consisting of 22 temporary stalls. Free to attend.
Praça da Batalha Easter market, at Praça da Batalha, 10h-20h
Mercado da Alegria is a weekly opportunity to view and buy the work of dozens of local artisans and sellers. From 1-16 April, enjoy a special Easter artisans market. Free to attend, but dependent on good weather since it’s outdoors.
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
PáscoaLicious, at Licious, starts 14h30
An event for the whole family, especially children. The Easter Bunny hid a bunch of eggs at Licious and they need your help finding them. For 15€, you will prepare personalized baskets, eat ice cream and/or hot chocolate, and participate in an egg hunt. Register in advance to participate.
Vaccine Monologues show, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, multiple times
Don't be fooled by the name, João Baião leads a fun show that ranges from dialogues, choreographies, songs, and comedic moments. Tickets start at 20€ for the 15h30 and 21h30 shows.
Mateus Barros piano concert, at Municipal Theater Rivoli, 17h-18h
Born in Porto, Mateus Barros began piano study at the age of 6 and worked his way up to study with piano masters. This concert will showcase pieces from Bach, Mozart, Chopin, and Debussy. Tickets are 5€.
The Count of Torrefiel play, at Municipal Theater Rivoli, 19h30-21h15
The Portuguese premiere of this Spanish play about the future has been said to be a shake-up of contemporary theater (in Spanish, Portuguese, and English). Tickets are 12€.
Até Que a Sogra nos Separe play, at Teatro Sá da Bandeira, starts 21h
"Until the Mother-in-law Separates Us" is a comedic play that addresses love crises, social differences, family confusions and mother's love (in Portuguese). Tickets start at 15€.
GAEREA concert, at Hard Club, starts 21h
A black metal band that also expands their sounds with melancholy texture and deep emotion. Tickets are 22€.
Matt Elliott concert, at Hotel Mouco, starts 21h
This British guitarist and singer from Bristol, England, plays dark folk music. Tickets are 12€.
Pink Turns Blue concert, at Hard Club, starts 21h30
This German post-punk band from Berlin has been around since 1985. Over that time, they have been categorized as gothic rock before developing a sub-genre of dark wave. Tickets are 24€.
Unstable Stages dance performance, at Campo Alegre Theatre, 21h30-22h30
The Unstable Stages is an effort to encourage and offer opportunities to emerging artists. This performance “Sagração de Quem Era,” was created by Porto-based choreographer Margarida Constantino (in Portuguese). Tickets can purchased for 7€ in advance or at the door.
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Sunday, 2 April
Weekly artisan market, at Jardim do Passeio Alegre, 9h-18h
Mercado da Alegria is a weekly opportunity to view and buy the work of dozens of local artisans and sellers. Free to attend. Since the market is outside, it is dependent on good weather.
Easter market, at Mercado do Bolhão, 10h-18h
The Balhão market gets a little bigger in advance of Easter. The gallery on the third floor will host the Easter Fair, consisting of 22 temporary stalls. Free to attend.
Praça da Batalha Easter market, at Praça da Batalha, 10h-20h
Mercado da Alegria is a weekly opportunity to view and buy the work of dozens of local artisans and sellers. From 1-16 April, enjoy a special Easter artisans market. Free to attend, but dependent on good weather since it’s outdoors.
Mysterious Egypt, at Alfandega Congress Center, 11h-17h
This audiovisual journey through ancient Egyptian civilization will transport you to important locations and moments, including the discovery of the treasure of King Tutankhamen, the inscription of the Rosetta Stone, the prestigious reign of Pharaoh Ramses II - The Great, and the enigma of the construction of the Pyramids in Giza. Tickets start at 8€.
Até Que a Sogra nos Separe play, at Teatro Sá da Bandeira, starts 16h
"Until the Mother-in-law Separates Us" is a comedic play that addresses love crises, social differences, family confusions and mother's love (in Portuguese). Tickets start at 15€.
Unstable Stages dance performance, at Campo Alegre Theatre, 17h-18h
The Unstable Stages is an effort to encourage and offer opportunities to emerging artists. This performance “Sagração de Quem Era,” was created by Porto-based choreographer Margarida Constantino (in Portuguese). Tickets can purchased for 7€ in advance or at the door.
Tomara concert, at Ageas Porto Coliseu, 18h-19h
Portuguese singer TOMARA a.k.a Filipe C. Monteiro will be showcasing his latest album "Avalanche." The sound of TOMARA is distinguished by the delicate cross between North American folk and a deeply European identity. Tickets are 12€.
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