The town of Moncarapacho, in the municipality of Olhão, is preparing to celebrate the Christmas season with a program marked by light, color and animation, assuming, this year, as a true Christmas Village. The initiative is organized by , with the support of the Municipality of Olhão, and focuses on Praça Major João Xavier de Castanheda, which will be transformed into a festive setting throughout December.
The first big moment takes place this weekend, with the 12th Moncarapacho Christmas Market, at the Events Pavilion, located in Largo do Mercado Mensal. The event, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, is also part of the 6th MonFole – Moncarapacho Accordion Meeting.
With free entry, the Christmas Market opens on Saturday at 4:00 pm, marking the arrival of Santa Claus at 5:00 pm, who promises to cheer up the children. Considered the oldest and most genuine in the municipality of Olhão, the Feirinha brings together around 50 artisans, offering visitors the opportunity to purchase original gifts, from handicrafts to honey, lace, dried fruits, liqueurs, regional confectionery or toys.
The musical entertainment starts at 5:45 pm with the students from escolinhadohelder, followed, at 7:00 pm, by the dance by the Urban Xpression group. At 8:30 pm the 6th MonFole begins, featuring accordionists Jorge Alves – born in Moncarapacho –, Luís Mira, from Lagoa and world champion, and Fernando Inês, from Loulé.
On Sunday, December 7th, the traditional Monthly Market takes place in the morning, while the Feirinha reopens at 9:30 am. At 11:00 the Choir of the Senior University of Moncarapacho performs and, from 2:00 pm, the program includes Christmas carols by the CNE Group 1255 Moncarapacho, as well as dancing for the classes of the Hip-Hop Fusion group. Closing is scheduled for 5pm.
Between December 12th and 24th, Moncarapacho officially becomes the “Christmas Village”, with a permanent fair in the Parish Square.
The space will feature an exhibition and sale of artisanal products and various delicacies typical of the time. Stands open at 3pm Monday to Friday and 10am on weekends, closing at 8pm Sunday to Thursday and later on Fridays and Saturdays.
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