Semana do Mar 2026: Experience Faial’s Biggest Festival

If you’re visiting Faial this summer, there’s no better time to experience the island’s vibrant atmosphere than during Semana do Mar (Sea Week). From 31 July to 9 August 2026, Horta comes alive with live music, sailing competitions, cultural events, local food, crafts and celebrations that showcase the island’s deep connection to the Atlantic. This year’s edition marks the 49th Semana do Mar, one of the Azores’ most iconic festivals and the largest nautical festival in Portugal.

For almost five decades, Semana do Mar has welcomed thousands of visitors alongside sailors from around the world who arrive in Horta after crossing the Atlantic. Whether you’re interested in maritime traditions, live entertainment, local cuisine or simply enjoying warm summer evenings by the marina, this is one of the very best times of the year to visit Faial.

Nautical Sports Highlights

Semana do Mar celebrates Faial’s deep connection with the Atlantic through an extensive programme of nautical competitions, bringing together local clubs, national athletes and international sailors.

This year’s programme includes a wide variety of events, such as:

• Sailing regattas for different classes, including cruising yachts and traditional races.
• Azorean whaleboat regattas, one of the festival’s most iconic traditions, showcasing the islands’ historic rowing boats.
• Rowing competitions featuring local clubs.
• Canoeing and kayaking races.
• Open water swimming competitions in Horta Bay.
• Coastal sport fishing tournaments.
• The Old Sailors Regatta, celebrating Horta’s long maritime tradition.
• Radio-controlled model sailing regattas, a popular event for spectators of all ages.
• Various maritime demonstrations, sailing activities and events organised by Clube Naval da Horta and other local associations throughout the week.

Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply enjoy watching sporting events by the sea, the festival offers a fantastic opportunity to experience why Horta is regarded as one of the world’s most famous Atlantic marinas.

2026 Concert Highlights

Music is one of the biggest attractions of Semana do Mar, and the 2026 edition features an exciting lineup of Portuguese rock, hip-hop, pop, electronic music and local talent.

This year’s main stage programme includes:

• 31 July – Lon3r Johny, followed by DJ Campira
• 1 August – Quinta do Bill, followed by DJ Mello
• 2 August – Julinho KSD, with an after-show by Chá de Funk
• 3 August – Zarko
• 4 August – Family entertainment with Professor Idalécio, followed by Insert Coin
• 5 August – Vizinhos, followed by DJ Perez
• 6 August – International Folklore Festival
• 7 August – Blasted Mechanism, followed by DJ Carlos Manaça
• 8 August – Paulo Gonzo, followed by André Henriques & Gonçalo Roque
• 9 August – Closing concert by the Orquestra de Música Ligeira da Câmara Municipal da Horta

The full programme includes dozens of sporting events, cultural activities, exhibitions and performances taking place throughout the festival.

For the latest schedules, event information and any programme updates, visit the official Semana do Mar website:

Official website: www.semanadomar.net

Photos: Semana do Mar Official