Enterprise

How to Celebrate Saint Martin in Portugal

As autumn arrives, Portugal fills with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the clinking of glasses of new wine. Celebrated on 11 November, Saint Martin’s Day is one of the most beloved traditions in the national calendar. More than a religious feast, it’s a celebration of the land, the harvest, and the spirit of sharing. From north to south, this time of year sees “magustos” (traditional bonfire gatherings), community events and wine tastings that mark the arrival of the season’s first wines. This article invites you to experience Saint Martin’s Day like a local: full of flavour, warmth, and the freedom to explore Portugal behind the wheel of an Enterprise car.

The origins of Saint Martin’s celebration

The celebration dates back to the 4th century and the legend of Saint Martin of Tours. According to tradition, during a journey on horseback, Martin came across a beggar shivering in the cold. Without hesitation, he tore his cloak in half and shared it. At that moment, the clouds cleared, the weather warmed, and thus was born the famous “Saint Martin’s summer”.

This inspiring story became a symbol of kindness and generosity, and it’s still evoked today in popular celebrations across the country. Beyond the religious meaning, Saint Martin’s Day is also deeply connected to the agricultural calendar and the start of the new wine tasting season - a ritual that brings people and nature together.

How Saint Martin’s Day is celebrated in Portugal


Celebrating Saint Martin’s Day is a truly sensory experience. The crackling of the bonfire, the aroma of chestnuts roasting, the tang of young wine - everything invites conviviality and the joy of life’s simplest pleasures.

Some of the most common traditions include:

  • “Magustos”: popular gatherings around a bonfire, where people roast chestnuts, drink local wine, and share traditional snacks;
  • New wine tastings: in wine estates and cellars across the country, it’s time to taste the fresh harvests of the year;
  • Cultural entertainment: live music, traditional dancing, local fairs and markets;
  • Seasonal gastronomy: game dishes, smoked sausages, “caldo verde”, “jeropiga” and desserts with nuts and chestnuts.

More than just a celebration, Saint Martin’s Day is a state of mind.

Where to celebrate Saint Martin’s Day in Portugal, from north to south

Porto and the North

In the northern region, Saint Martin’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm, both in cities and in rural areas. In Porto, several neighbourhoods and local associations organise community magustos with live music, street food stalls, and glasses of new wine. Nearby towns like Amarante, Lamego or Vila Real also host traditional fairs and festivities.

Tip: Some wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia offer special tastings during this season, with a focus on new wine and seasonal pairings. 

Serra da Estrela

In the heart of Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range, the celebration is full of authenticity. Historic villages host traditional bonfire gatherings where neighbours and visitors come together to share food, wine, and warmth. Local flavours shine: chestnut soup, grilled sausages, rye bread and warm jeropiga.

Tip: In villages like Folgosinho or Linhares da Beira, “magustos” are a deeply rooted tradition, often celebrated in a community setting. 

Lisbon and surroundings


The Portuguese capital celebrates Saint Martin’s Day with a mix of tradition and modern spirit. In Lisbon, you’ll often find small bonfire parties organised by local associations in historic neighbourhoods like Alfama, Graça or Mouraria. In nearby towns such as Palmela, Setúbal or Alenquer, you’ll find wine-themed events and “magustos” with music, dancing, and regional delicacies.

Tip: Visit a wine estate in the Setúbal Peninsula. Many offer autumn experiences that include tastings of new wine and seasonal products among golden-coloured vineyards.

Alentejo

In Marvão, Saint Martin’s Day is a major event. The Chestnut Fair, held every November, attracts thousands of visitors and transforms the town’s streets into a stage for living tradition: folk music, local products, autumn gastronomy, and new wine tastings.

Tip: Also visit Castelo de Vide or Portalegre to experience the region’s rich wine culture. 

Algarve

In the Algarve, the so-called “Saint Martin’s summer” truly lives up to its name. With mild temperatures and almost-guaranteed sunshine, it’s a great time to discover the region free from the crowds. Festivities keep traditions alive, blending roasted chestnuts, new wine, and the Algarve’s signature hospitality.

In Portimão, the Saint Martin’s Fair is one of the oldest and most awaited events of the season. Held at the city’s fairgrounds, it includes live entertainment, local food, regional products and rides for all ages. In other towns like Loulé or São Bartolomeu de Messines, it’s also common to find “magustos” and small autumn markets hosted by local councils or community groups.

Tip: Take a detour to Serra de Monchique and taste the region’s chestnuts in a mountain setting with breathtaking views of the Algarve coastline.

Seasonal treats you can’t miss

No Saint Martin’s celebration is complete without the right flavours on the table. Here are a few of the classics that define this time of year:

  • Roasted chestnuts: the ultimate symbol of the season, often served in brown paper or newspaper;
  • New wine: young and slightly acidic, with a fresh fruity profile — perfect with chestnuts;
  • Jeropiga or água-pé: sweet, low-alcohol beverages traditionally served during magustos;
  • Caldo verde with chouriço: a comforting soup ideal for chilly November nights;
  • Broas and chestnut cakes: seasonal pastries made with dried fruits, nuts and autumn spices.

Celebrate Saint Martin’s Day on the road

Celebrating Saint Martin’s Day is a delicious way to explore Portugal off the beaten path. Between roasted chestnuts, new wine and century-old traditions, there’s so much to discover, savour and enjoy. And with Enterprise, it couldn’t be easier: choose the ideal car for your trip, hit the road and explore villages, vineyards and golden landscapes at your own pace.

Because with Enterprise, the road is yours. And so is Saint Martin’s Day.

Final note:

There’s so much to savour this season, whether it’s a glass of new wine or a traditional autumn dish. But remember: if you’re driving, don’t drink. Enjoy in moderation, go all in on the fun, and if you’d like to raise a glass without worries, don’t forget to add an additional driver to your booking.