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Podence Carnival 2026: A Complete Guide to Experiencing the Carnival of Chocalheiros


Caretos de Podence

If you're looking for an authentic Carnival experience, far from the glitter and conventional floats, get ready to discover the Entrudo Chocalheiro of Podence — one of the most genuine and fascinating Carnival traditions in Portugal. Between February 14th and 17th, 2026, this small village in Trás-os-Montes will once again transform into a living stage of ancestral rituals, where masked figures run through the streets to the sound of rattles and the revelry takes on contours that span centuries [1].


Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2019, the Carnival of Podence is much more than a party — it's a journey to the roots of Portuguese traditions, a ritual of renewal that celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring, in a land where olive oil shapes the rhythm of life and the people preserve ancestral memories [1,2].


The Caretos: Mysterious Figures of Northeastern Trás-os-Montes


At the heart of the Entrudo Chocalheiro (Carnival of the Rattles) are the Caretos — masked young men in colorful fringed wool costumes, imposing tin or leather masks with pointed noses, and rattles at their waists that make their presence felt throughout the village. These enigmatic figures represent chaos, freedom, and transgression, during a time of year when social rules are momentarily suspended.


During Carnival, the Caretos run wild through the streets of Podence, jumping, shouting, and symbolically "rattling" anyone they encounter — especially women, in a tradition that evokes ancient fertility rituals. Protected by the anonymity of their masks, they feel free to play, provoke, and spread contagious energy to every corner of the village.


But the Caretos are not alone in this revelry. Closely following them are the "facanitos" — children dressed in similar costumes who imitate their elders, ensuring that this tradition is passed down from generation to generation. And there are also the matrafonas — the only beings that the Caretos respect in their escapades, figures that bring balance to the festive chaos [1,3].


Entrudo Chocalheiro 2026 Program: What Not to Miss


Saturday, February 14th — Opening of the Festivities and Valentine's Day


The first day of the Entrudo Chocalheiro coincides with Valentine's Day, creating a unique combination of love and tradition. The morning begins early with a walk along the Entrudo Chocalheiro Trail at 9:00 AM (registration required), followed by the traditional market at 10:30 AM. The "Paint Your Mask" experience starts at 11:00 AM at the Careto Workshop — a unique opportunity to create your own traditional mask (registration required).


At noon, street entertainment begins with the Ronda das Tabernas (Tavern Round), and at 1:00 PM you can have lunch at participating restaurants with special "Love and Bells" menus. In the afternoon, the facanitos (little Caretos) roam the streets at 3:30 PM, in a rehearsal of what's to come in the following days. At 4:30 PM, there will be a presentation of the children's book "Adventures of the Careto of Podence" by Rafael Costa.


The evening is dedicated to gastronomy, with "Flavors of Love and Tradition" dinners at participating restaurants at 7:30 PM, followed by the Valentine's Day Carnival at 11:00 PM in Podence and Macedo de Cavaleiros. The day concludes with a nighttime parade through the streets of Macedo de Cavaleiros at 9:30 PM.


Sunday, February 15th — Fat Sunday


Careto

It is on Shrove Sunday that the Caretos make their grand appearance in full force. The morning begins at 9:30 am with a walk along the Careto Trail (registration required) and the traditional market at 10:00 am. At 11:00 am, the street entertainment kicks off with the Tavern Parade, followed by the traditional Shrove Sunday lunch in the taverns at 1:00 pm.


In the afternoon, at 3:30 pm, the most anticipated moment takes place: the Caretos roaming freely through the streets of the village of Podence, in a contagious energy that involves visitors and residents alike. At 4:30 pm there is the launch of the children's book "Vento Velhaco" with the author Rute Cancela at Bolinha de Música.


The evening begins with the Entrudo Night Walk at 7:00 pm (registration required), followed by the Gastronomic Night in the Taverns at 8:00 pm. The day concludes at 10:00 PM with the Traditional Concert (subject to space availability).


Monday, February 16th — A Day Full of Tradition


The third day is particularly rich in activities. The morning offers two simultaneous hikes: the Sacred Rattle Trail at 9:30 am and the "Dog Walk" at 10:00 am at the Eira do Careto Meeting (both requiring registration). Also at 10:00 am you can visit the Terras de Cavaleiros Geopark territory (registration required).


At 11:30 am there is another session of the "Paint Your Mask" experience at the Careto Workshop, followed by a regional lunch at the taverns at 12:30 pm. In the afternoon, at 2:00 pm, there is another opportunity to visit the Geopark territory (registration required) and at 2:30 pm the traditional market returns.


From 3:00 pm onwards, street entertainment begins with the users of "Cercimac", followed by the inauguration of a mural on the main street at 3:30 pm. One of the most special moments is the "Being a Careto" experience at 4:00 PM in Largo do Cruzeiro (registration required) — where you can wear the full costume and feel what it's like to be a Careto.


The evening brings the Gastronomic Night in the Taverns at 7:30 PM, the fun Wedding Announcement with traditional Weddings in Largo da Igreja at 9:30 PM, the Magic Mask Night with an enigmatic parade at 10:00 PM, and the Fire and Magic ritual at Eira do Careto at 10:30 PM. The day ends at 11:00 PM with the Traditional Concert (subject to space availability).


Tuesday, February 17th — The Burning of the Entrudo


The final day of the Chocalheiro Entrudo begins at 10:00 AM with a walk along the Chocalho Trail (registration required) and the traditional market. At 11:00 AM there is the last opportunity to participate in the "Paint Your Mask" experience (registration required), followed by street entertainment with the Tavern Parade at 11:30 AM and the Carnival Lunch at 1:00 PM.


In the afternoon, from 3:00 PM there is street entertainment, and at 3:30 PM the Caretos (masked figures) return to roam the streets of the village of Podence in a final display of strength and energy. At 4:00 PM the Marafonas Parade takes place — figures respected by all the Caretos who bring balance to the festivities.


The most anticipated moment arrives at 5:00 PM with the Burning Procession, which gathers in the Church Square. At 5:30 PM, at Eira do Careto, the Burning of the Carnival ceremony takes place — a symbolic ritual in which a giant eight-meter-high Careto figure is burned, representing the end of carnival excesses and purification before Lent. It is a moment full of symbolism that marks the farewell until next year.


Activities with Nature Throughout Carnival


In addition to the main program, throughout the four days of Entrudo Chocalheiro you can enjoy activities in nature:


Boat Trips on the Azibo Reservoir

Buggy tours through the Territory of the Caretos

Places to Visit in Podence:

  • Careto Museum (Careto House)

  • Murals throughout the village of Podence

  • Eira do Careto

  • Careto Swing

  • Mask of Love

  • Parish Church of Our Lady of Purification


Where to Stay: Authentic Accommodation in and around Podence


Accommodation options in Podence and Macedo de Cavaleiros are varied, but during Carnival it's essential to book months in advance. Options range from rural houses in the heart of the village to farms with olive groves and comfortable hotels in the city.


In Podence:

  • Quinta da Moagem — Rural tourism with a restaurant serving traditional Transmontana cuisine, including Mirandesa steak and alheira sausage. A few minutes from Casa do Careto.

  • Casas de Campo Podence — In the heart of the village, perfect for those who want to be close to the action of the Caretos.

  • Monte do Azibo Glamping — Wooden bungalows overlooking the Azibo reservoir lake, combining nature and comfort.


In Macedo de Cavaleiros (10 minutos from Podence):

  • Hotel Muchacho — A renowned hotel with an excellent regional breakfast.

  • Hotel Marisol — Comfort and central location.

  • Pure Azibo — Highly praised by guests, with a breakfast featuring local products.


Where to Eat: Gastronomy that Warms the Soul


The cuisine of Trás-os-Montes is pure comfort, especially in winter. During Carnival, don't miss the opportunity to try:


Must-Try Dishes:

  • Posta Mirandesa — Tender and succulent meat, seasoned with the best olive oil from the region.

  • Alheira — Traditional sausage from Trás-os-Montes, considered one of the 7 Gastronomic Wonders of Portugal.

  • Rodeão — Typical dish from the region that combines meat with turnip greens.

  • Azedo — Traditional sausage similar to alheira, but without garlic.


Recommended Restaurants:

  • A Moagem do João do Padre (Podence) — Specializing in Posta Mirandesa, served in a rustic setting with antique items from Trás-os-Montes.

  • Tasquinha Regional "O Careto" (Careto House, Podence) — Traditional cuisine with views of the Azibo Reservoir.

  • Taberna da Fonte (Podence) — A welcoming establishment to enjoy wine and Posta Mirandesa.

  • Villar de Mazaedo by Quinta da Amendoeira (Macedo de Cavaleiros) — Carefully prepared cuisine featuring Bísaro pork and Posta Mirandesa.


During Carnival 2026, the Turnip Greens Gastronomic Festival will also take place in participating restaurants in the region (February 14-17), celebrating this ingredient so characteristic of the cuisine of Trás-os-Montes.


Careto House: Living Museum of Tradition


Before or after the festivities, visit Careto House (Casa do Careto) — a small museum dedicated to the Caretos of Podence, inaugurated in 2004. The space exhibits complete costumes, tin and leather masks, rattles, and all the attire of these fascinating figures. You'll also find paintings by artists such as Graça Morais and Balbina Mendes that depict the tradition.


Opening Hours (outside of Carnival period):

  • Closed on Mondays

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-12:00 and 14:30-18:00

  • During Carnival, the museum has extended opening hours.


The visit lasts about 30 minutes and is an excellent introduction to the history and symbolism of the Caretos. In the museum shop, you can buy merchandise and even try "Being a Careto," wearing the complete costume.


Discover the Region: Between Olivais and Albufeira


Caretos no barco

Podence is located in one of Portugal's most important olive-growing regions, surrounded by centuries-old olive groves that produce exceptionally high-quality Trás-os-Montes PDO olive oil. If you visit in February, you'll still have time to taste the new olive oil—green, intense, and spicy—freshly extracted from the region's mills.


What to Visit in the Surrounding Area:

  • Albufeira do Azibo — One of the most beautiful river beaches in Portugal, perfect for seaside walks even in winter.

  • Geoparque Terras de Cavaleiros — A territory of stunning natural beauty with unique geosites.

  • Serra de Bornes — Breathtaking panoramic views.

  • Núcleo Museológico do Azeite "Solar dos Cortiços" — In the village of Cortiços, for those passionate about olive oil culture.


Practical Tips for Your Visit


How to get there: By car via the A4, exit 37 (less than 1 km from Podence). This is the most practical way, especially for exploring the region.


When to book: The Podence Carnival attracts around 50,000 visitors over the four days of festivities, completely transforming this village of just 200 inhabitants. Book accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance.


What to Bring:

  • Warm clothes — February in Trás-os-Montes can be cold, especially at night

  • Comfortable shoes for walking the village's cobblestone streets

  • Camera — the Caretos are incredibly photogenic

  • Open mind for fun — let yourself be "shaked" by the Caretos, it's part of the tradition!


Unmissable Experiences:

  • "Paint Your Mask" — Workshop to create your own Careto mask (registration required: experienciapintaatuamascara@gmail.com)

  • "Be a Careto" — Wear the complete costume and feel the energy of this tradition (registration required: careto.podence@gmail.com)

  • Boat trips on the Azibo Reservoir (registration required)

  • Hikes along the trails of the Chocalheiro and Chocalho Carnival (registration required)


More Than a Party: A Ritual of Renewal


The Carnival of Podence is not just a festive celebration—it's a ritual deeply rooted in ancestral beliefs. The origins of this tradition date back to ancient pagan cults that celebrated fertility and the renewal of nature, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring.


The Caretos represent this force of renewal, this creative chaos that precedes rebirth. As they run through the streets, ringing their rattles, and the women "rattling," they are perpetuating a millennial ritual celebrating life, the vital energy that returns to the earth with the new season.


It is this authenticity, this deep connection to roots, that makes the Entrudo Chocalheiro (Carnival of the Rattlers) a transformative experience. When you visit Podence during Carnival, you're not just watching a party—you're participating in a ritual that unites past and present, tradition and contemporaneity, in a truly unique celebration.


Between Rattles and Olive Trees: An Unforgettable Journey


The Carnival of Podence is a gateway to discovering the best of Trás-os-Montes — the authenticity of its people, the strength of its traditions, the beauty of its landscapes, the excellence of its gastronomy and, of course, the quality of the olive oil produced in this blessed land of centuries-old olive groves.


In February, when the Caretos (masked figures) leap through the streets and the cowbells echo through the village, Podence transforms into a magical place where time seems to have stood still — or perhaps where the cyclical time of nature and rural traditions still dictates the rhythm of life. It is a rare opportunity to experience a celebration that remains true to its origins, that resists cultural homogenization, that reminds us that there are still places where the genuine and the authentic are not just words, but a way of being in the world.


If you're looking for a different kind of Carnival, if you want to discover traditions that have spanned centuries, if you wish to taste freshly extracted olive oil, if you need to reconnect with what's essential — then Podence awaits you, from February 14th to 17th, 2026, for another unforgettable Carnival celebration.


Discover more authentic experiences in Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro at  Azeite a Norte and plan your next trip to the heart of Portuguese traditions.


Practical Informations


Dates: February 14-17, 2026

Location: Podence, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Trás-os-Montes

Useful Contacts:


Full Program: See the detailed program at caretosdepodence.pt


References


[1] Caretos de Podence - Programa Oficial Entrudo Chocalheiro 2026. Disponível em: https://www.caretosdepodence.pt/node/302

[2] UNESCO - Carnaval de Podence, Património Cultural Imaterial da Humanidade (2019). Disponível em: https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/carnival-of-podence-01385

[3] Casa do Careto - Museu dos Caretos de Podence. Disponível em: https://www.caretosdepodence.pt/casadocareto

[4] Geopark Terras de Cavaleiros - Informação Turística. Disponível em: https://www.geoparkterrasdecavaleiros.com

[5] Turismo de Portugal - Albufeira do Azibo. Disponível em: https://www.visitportugal.com

[6] Município de Macedo de Cavaleiros - Portal Oficial. Disponível em: https://www.cm-macedodecavaleiros.pt

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