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October 2026 is a full month of animal-themed culture and community fundraising with Cadela Carlota & Companhia in Lagos, western Algarve, ideal for animal lovers, expats and visitors keen to support local rescue work.
3–14 October 2026 (key events across the month)
What is “A Busy October for Cadela Carlota”?
Cadela Carlota & Companhia is an animal rescue organisation, and October 2026 brings a whole series of events to raise awareness and funds for the animals in their care. Centred around Lagos, a popular town on the western Algarve coast, the programme combines art, literature and community action.
The month includes an art exhibition called The Art of Rescue, a book presentation, the launch of the 2027 Cadela Carlota calendar and supermarket collection days. Together, these activities create a gentle, community-focused way for locals and visitors to get involved in animal welfare while enjoying a cultural side to the Algarve.
Why visitors and expats will enjoy this event
For tourists, digital nomads and expats, these October events offer a chance to connect with everyday Algarve life beyond the beaches. You can meet local volunteers, discover Portuguese artists inspired by animals and support a grassroots rescue shelter.
The atmosphere is friendly and informal, making it easy to drop in for an exhibition visit or a book talk, even if you are only in Lagos for a few days. It is also a meaningful option if you are looking for more socially conscious things to do in the Algarve during the quieter autumn season.
What to expect in October
The October programme brings together several different activities:
- The Art of Rescue exhibition: From 3 to 14 October, Júlio Dantas Secondary School in Lagos hosts an exhibition of artwork connected to animals and rescue. It opens on 3 October at 6pm and includes a fundraising element, with proceeds helping Cadela Carlota & Companhia.
- Book presentation: On 10 October at 6pm, author Carlos Filipe presents his book (Im)Perfect Friends, offering another opportunity to gather, hear about the stories behind the book and support animal rescue.
- 2027 calendar launch: The new Cadela Carlota calendar for 2027 is launched during this period, featuring some of the animals in their care and providing a simple way to contribute to the shelter.
- Supermarket collection days: There are also collection days in local supermarkets in Lagos and nearby Odiáxere (noted for 26 and 27 September), where donations of food and supplies go directly to the animals.
Overall, you can expect a relaxed, community feel rather than a large festival – ideal if you prefer smaller, more personal events.
Practical information
Dates and opening times
The key dates mentioned for October 2026 are:
- 3–14 October: The Art of Rescue exhibition at Júlio Dantas Secondary School in Lagos.
- 3 October, 6pm: Exhibition opening.
- 10 October, 6pm: Presentation of Carlos Filipe’s book (Im)Perfect Friends.
Exact daily opening hours for the exhibition and other activities are not specified, but you can expect them to run at set times rather than being open around the clock.
Tickets and prices
The information provided does not list ticket prices or confirm whether entry is free. The events are described as having a fundraising aspect, with proceeds supporting Cadela Carlota & Companhia, so you can expect opportunities to donate or purchase items such as the 2027 calendar or artwork. For the latest details on any entry fees or suggested donations, it is best to check directly with Cadela Carlota & Companhia closer to the date.
Who it suits
These October events are well suited to:
- Animal lovers and rescue supporters
- Families with children who enjoy animals and art
- Expats and digital nomads looking to connect with the local community
- Visitors interested in quieter cultural experiences in the Algarve
How to get there
Lagos sits on the western side of the Algarve, roughly along the coast west of Portimão. Júlio Dantas Secondary School is within the town, so it is straightforward to reach by car or local taxi from most Lagos accommodation areas.
If you are arriving in the region via Faro Airport and planning to explore more of the west coast, having your own vehicle can be very convenient. You can compare options for Faro Airport car hire using guides such as the best car rental companies at Faro Airport before you travel.
Once in Lagos, the school and supermarket collection points are typically within a short drive or taxi ride from the historic centre and main residential areas.
Tips for making the most of your visit
- Combine with a day in Lagos: Plan time to explore the old town, marina or nearby beaches before or after visiting the exhibition or book event.
- Bring a small donation budget: If you would like to support the shelter, consider setting aside money for the calendar, artwork or a direct contribution.
- Allow time to chat: These are community events, so take a moment to talk to volunteers and learn more about animal rescue in the Algarve.
- Check details in advance: As programmes can change, confirm dates and times directly with Cadela Carlota & Companhia or via their social media before you go.
Make a day of it in the Algarve
Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most scenic coastal towns, so it is easy to turn your visit into a full day out. You might combine the exhibition or book event with a walk along the cliffs or a boat trip to explore the coastline and caves, using resources like local guides to book a Lagos boat trip to Ponta da Piedade. If you are planning a longer stay, you can also look for more things to do in the Algarve that fit around these October events.
Where to stay nearby
Lagos itself is the most convenient base for these events, with plenty of accommodation options and easy access to Júlio Dantas Secondary School and the local supermarkets involved in the collection days. Staying in or near the town centre keeps you close to both the cultural activities and the beaches. Odiáxere, a smaller nearby village, can also work as a quieter base if you prefer a more rural feel while still being a short drive from Lagos.
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