Posted on September 24, 2015
Golegã Horse Fair 2015 – Portugal
It is the time of year when Portugal says “Olá” to its greatest horse fair which takes place in the little town of Golegã, located north east of Lisbon on the west side of the river Tejo. Golegã is considered the capital of the horse (Capital do Cavalo) and it has been the site for a gathering of breeders since 1773, dedicated to showing the Lusitano horse at its best.
The area around Golegã is home to some of Portugal’s most famous stud farms. The Horse Fair or known locally as “The Feira do Cavalos” is held every November and lasts for a week. The festival overtakes the town, it is a spectacle like no other in the world and we recommend that every horse person puts this visit on their bucket list.
Centuries old traditions
Golegã Horse Fair has top competitions in all disciplines as well as various shows and displays. Right in the middle of the town there is a large riding arena which is surrounded by the “Manga” where many horses and riders pass in traditional portuguese clothes.
The bustling party atmosphere of the Manga
The narrow streets of Golegã are filled with stands, giving a great opportunity to experience the exuberant Portuguese culture. You can also meet many Lusitano breeders in their ‘casettas’ (small cottages) and see them exhibit their horses in outside stalls.
One of many great sights to see
You can witness some of the finest performances taking place in the town, as well as equestrian games, championships, carriage marathons and exhibitions. The town really bustles with excitement and enthusiasm.
Displays in national costume
As the night falls, the party really begins; featuring evening performances by the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, and Luis Valença’s Centro Equestre da Leziria Grande. All day and night partying crowds celebrate Portugese style.
Impressive team work
You will find horses everywhere – they too join in on the fun in the bars and even in the discotheques.
An experience you will never forget
And to complement the party mood you will find plenty of “água-pé” (a local wine) flowing and the smell of tasty roasted chestnuts in the air.
The aroma of roasted chestnuts is a delight
Say “Saúde” with the local tipple?
We can arrange for you to experience all of this for yourselves. If you are planning a visit to Alcainça this November then why not add-on a two day/one night visit to Golegã to join the party.
Make sure you don’t miss out on this fantastic experience, as availability is limited. To reserve your place or if you would like to find out more information please call and have a chat with one of our specialist agents on 01299 272 997 or email rides@inthesaddle.com
“Estamos ansiosos para ouvir de você em breve” 🙂 (We look forward to hearing from you soon)
Classical dressage at Golegã Horse Fair
Hi ,We are interested to see you have taken this venue and would like to know price and where one stays. Geoff and I went there a few years ago and had a fantastic time.
Hi Wendy
It’s wonderful to hear from you. Our dressage centre Alcainca runs a guided trip to Golega every year and I would be happy to email you some further information about this. I will be in touch shortly.
Imogen