Organised by the Confraria das Santas Chagas in partnership with the Town Council, this year’s ceremonies focus on a dynamic that combines historical heritage with community life. The mayor, Mário Passos, emphasises the significance of the event, noting that, during this period, “Famalicão is undoubtedly a must-visit stop on the regional itinerary”, highlighting “the cultural impact and the importance of keeping alive the traditions” that define Famalicão’s identity.

The 2026 Holy Week programme kicks off with the Ecumenical Gathering on 14 March, but gains momentum with the 4th Walk through Religious Heritage on the 21st, an event that invites visitors to discover local historical treasures. One of the major highlights of this year’s event is the 5th Hebrew Easter Biblical Procession, which on Palm Sunday, 29 March, will wind its way through the city’s streets. “This expression of faith, lived out through Catholic rites and perpetuated in our collective imagination, reflects features that are inseparable from our culture, taking on different forms and manifestations which, over time, have given shape to a rich and diverse heritage,” notes José Pedro Sousa, judge of the Confraria das Santas Chagas.

Alongside the spiritual aspect, Famalicão’s Holy Week once again takes centre stage for gastronomy with the 5th Easter Sweets Fair, which this year runs over two weekends in Praça D. Maria II, including the traditional sweets competition on 28 March. 

The festivities reach their most solemn moment on Maundy Thursday, 2 April, with the “Ecce Homo” Procession, and on Good Friday with the imposing Procession of the Burial of the Lord. Amidst symphonic choral concerts and traditional liturgical prayers, the event culminates on Easter Sunday with the Compasso Pascal, bringing to a close a month of activities celebrating the faith, culture and heritage of Vila Nova de Famalicão.

Please note that all events during Holy Week in Famalicão are free to attend.