Andanças: Portugal’s Most Magical Dance Festival You’ve Never Heard Of
- Shaghayegh
- Jul 21
- 4 min read
Every summer, in the heart of Portugal’s warm and wild Alentejo region, a truly unique celebration unfolds. Andanças is not just a festival—it’s a vibrant community where people from all over the world gather to dance, share, and live together in harmony with nature. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps in folk dancing or a seasoned dancer looking for something deeper, Andanças offers something magical.
Curious? Let’s take a closer look at this unforgettable dance journey.
Discover with us:
What is Andanças?
Andanças is an international dance and music festival that focuses on traditional social dances from around the world—Portuguese, Balkan, Latin, African, Celtic, and more. The event is built around four core values: sustainability, volunteering, community, and cultural sharing.
More than just a series of performances, Andanças is participatory—you’re invited to join dance workshops, jam sessions, storytelling, and communal living experiences, all while camping under the stars in a stunning natural setting.
It’s a one-of-a-kind gathering where people reconnect with dance as a social, joyful, and ancestral experience.
Where and When?
Andanças takes place in Campinho, a small village in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz, near the Alqueva Lake—one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe. The festival is usually held in August, during the peak of summer, when the fields of Alentejo are golden and the skies are endlessly blue.
In 2025, Andanças will run from the 14th to the 17th of August, bringing back its magical rhythm after a pause.
This peaceful village turns into a multicultural hub of music, movement, and shared values for four days, making it the perfect place for a soulful summer escape.
What can you experience?
Andanças is packed with activities for all ages, backgrounds, and interests. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
Dance workshops from early morning to late at night (Mazurka, Forró, Circles, Tango, African dances, and much more!)
Live music and concerts that keep the energy flowing from sunset until sunrise
Artistic performances and spontaneous jam sessions across the village
Activities for children, including storytelling, games, and creative workshops
Talks, debates, and shared meals with a strong focus on ecology and community life
Craft markets and local food stalls offering vegetarian and sustainable options
Whether you come alone, with friends, or with family, the warm and open atmosphere ensures you’ll make unforgettable connections.
How to get there?
Getting to Campinho is part of the adventure! The nearest big city is Évora, which is easily accessible by train or bus from Lisbon. From Évora, you can take a local bus or arrange a ride-sharing group with other festival-goers.
Many people also participate in the tradition of “Caminhadas para Andanças”—walking groups that hike to the festival, promoting a low-impact and communal arrival.
Once there, you can stay in the camping area provided by the festival, which is equipped with all the necessary facilities for a comfortable stay.
Fun facts about Andanças
The name “Andanças” comes from the Portuguese word “andar” meaning “to walk” or “to move”—a fitting name for a festival where movement is at the heart of everything!
The festival is almost entirely run by volunteers, creating a true sense of ownership and community.
Zero waste is one of its biggest goals—participants are encouraged to bring reusable dishes, cutlery, and water bottles.
You’ll hear a mix of languages throughout the festival: Portuguese, Spanish, English, French, and more—it’s truly international!
Andanças was first held in 1996 and has taken place in different parts of Portugal over the years.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
Dance outside your comfort zone: Try a style you’ve never heard of—whether it’s Bulgarian horo or Brazilian forró. The beauty of Andanças lies in exploration.
Travel light, think sustainably: Bring only what you need and opt for reusables (cup, plate, cutlery, water bottle). Andanças is proudly eco-conscious—pack like it.
Balance your rhythm: It’s tempting to join every workshop and jam, but pacing yourself ensures you enjoy the whole experience. Rest is part of the dance.
Talk to strangers: Some of the most meaningful moments happen off the dance floor. Share a meal, join a conversation circle, or just say “bom dia” with a smile.
Unplug to truly connect: Wi-Fi is weak, and that’s a gift. Let go of screens and let the music, movement, and people around you shape your days.
Final Thoughts 🌸
If you’re looking for a festival that’s different from the mainstream—one that celebrates togetherness, sustainability, and the joy of dance—Andanças is your perfect summer getaway.
It’s not about flashy stages or commercial hype; it’s about feeling grounded, present, and alive through music and movement. So pack your tent, your dancing shoes, and an open heart—and join the rhythm of Andanças.
Let the dancing begin! 💃
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