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Monchique, in the green hills of the western Algarve, rings in the New Year with a season of contemporary circus, bringing two acclaimed companies and a series of poetic, daring shows that will appeal to culture lovers, families and expats alike.
22 December – 4 January
What is “Monchique volta a entrar no novo ano com novo circo”?
This New Year tradition in Monchique centres on contemporary circus, known locally as “novo circo”. Over the festive period, two companies present several shows that blend technical skill, physical risk and strong visual storytelling.
The programme is part of the “Lavrar o Mar” project and features eight performances of “Strano” by Cirque Trottola and eight performances of “Hourvari” by Compagnie Rasposo. Both creations are known for their distinctive aesthetics and demanding technical level, while sharing a common focus on human fragility, explored through physical risk, contrasts and a poetic atmosphere.
Rather than a traditional circus with animals, this is contemporary circus: expect theatre, acrobatics and emotion, all under a carefully crafted artistic vision.
Why visitors and expats will enjoy this event
For visitors, digital nomads and foreign residents in the Algarve, this event offers a refreshing alternative to beach days and festive dinners. It is a chance to experience a cultural side of the region in a mountain town that feels very different from the coastal resorts.
The shows are highly visual and physical, making them accessible even if you do not speak Portuguese. The themes of human vulnerability, chaos and the search for meaning are universal, and the mix of humour, risk and poetry creates an engaging evening out.
Monchique itself is a lovely place to explore before or after a performance, with cooler mountain air, scenic views and a slower pace than the Algarve coast. It is an appealing winter outing for expats and long-stay visitors looking for things to do in the Algarve beyond the usual tourist trail.
What to expect
The event takes place at the Parque de Estacionamento Descansa Pernas on the Estrada de Sabóia in Monchique, which is transformed into a performance space for the season.
“Strano” – Cirque Trottola
“Strano” invites the audience into a world of contrasts, where lightness meets risk and poetry rubs shoulders with the grotesque. You can expect:
- Acrobatic and physical performances with a strong emotional tone
- Moments that shift between delicate, lyrical scenes and more raw, playful or unsettling images
- A focus on the relationship between performers and the audience, typical of contemporary circus
“Hourvari” – Compagnie Rasposo
“Hourvari” is inspired by the chaotic moment in a hunt when the dogs lose the scent of their prey. This image becomes a metaphor for our unstable times, marked by fragility and the search for direction. Expect:
- Dynamic, sometimes chaotic staging that reflects confusion and pursuit
- Strong visual symbolism and physical risk
- A poetic reflection on modern life, conveyed through movement and circus techniques
Both shows are suitable for adults and families with older children or teenagers who enjoy visual theatre and are comfortable with more artistic, sometimes intense themes.
Practical information
Dates and opening times
The contemporary circus season in Monchique runs from 22 December to 4 January.
“Strano” – Cirque Trottola is performed on:
- 22, 23, 26, 27, 30 and 31 December, and 3 January at 20:30
- 4 January at 16:00
“Hourvari” – Compagnie Rasposo is performed on:
- 26, 27, 28, 30 and 31 December, and 1, 3 and 4 January at 18:00
These times make it easy to plan an early evening or night out in Monchique, and you could combine both shows on certain days if you wish.
Tickets and entry
Tickets are sold in advance through the Lavrar o Mar network and usual outlets. Prices range from 5€ for children up to 11 years old to 15€ for adults per show.
As this is a popular New Year tradition in Monchique, it is sensible to secure tickets ahead of time, especially for weekend and holiday dates.
How to get there
Monchique is a mountain town in the western Algarve, inland from the coastal areas of Portimão and Lagos. It is known for its forested hills and cooler climate compared with the coast.
The event takes place at the Parque de Estacionamento Descansa Pernas</strong on the Estrada de Sabóia in Monchique. If you are driving from the coast, you will follow the main road up into the hills towards Monchique and then continue to the Estrada de Sabóia area. Parking is typically easier than in coastal resorts, but allow extra time to find the venue and get settled before the show.
Visitors without a car can look into regional transport options to Monchique from larger Algarve towns, then walk or take a short taxi ride to the venue.
Tips for making the most of your visit
- Arrive early: Give yourself time to park, find your seats and soak up the atmosphere before the performance begins.
- Dress for cooler evenings: Monchique can be noticeably cooler than the coast in winter, especially at night, so bring layers.
- Plan a day trip: Combine the show with a daytime visit to Monchique’s viewpoints, nearby walking routes or a relaxed lunch in town.
- Consider seeing both shows: If your schedule allows, watching “Strano” and “Hourvari” on different days offers a deeper taste of contemporary circus in the Algarve.
- Bring some cash: While card payments are common in Portugal, having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or refreshments nearby.
For anyone spending Christmas and New Year in the Algarve, this contemporary circus season in Monchique is a memorable way to experience local culture and welcome the year ahead.