In Greater Porto, the holiday season is already in the air, and one of the municipalities preparing its festive program is Maia. This year, the festivities are set to kick off on November 27 (Friday) and will run through January 3, 2027. The big “star” of the show promises to draw large crowds to Maia: a 500 m² outdoor ice rink made of real ice. According to the Visit Maia website, “it is the largest of its kind in the country.”
Everything takes place at Praça Doutor José Vieira de Carvalho, right in front of City Hall. Beyond the ice rink, there are illuminated chalets, handmade gifts, traditional seasonal treats, a carousel—which this year will have two levels—Santa’s House, and much more.
From the Christmas Market to the traditional photo op
Whether to buy unique gifts or sample local delicacies, with 18 craft stalls and 14 food stalls, the Christmas Market remains one of the most popular holiday attractions.
But there’s much more waiting for you, such as the perfect backdrop for taking those classic Christmas photos. According to the Visit Maia website, Praça Doutor José Vieira de Carvalho will feature a themed photo spot: complete with Christmas trees and two giant carousel horses, each 3.5 meters tall.
And when is Santa Claus coming?
To welcome “Santa Claus,” Maia Natal 2026 has organized a Christmas Parade on December 6 (Sunday) at 5:30 p.m. The procession departs from Avenida Visconde Barreiros, next to Venepor, and accompanies Santa Claus to his home in the square.
Starting that day, Santa Claus will open his doors every day to welcome the little ones—including weekends and holidays—from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. On Christmas Eve, December 24, the last letters can still be delivered between 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Christmas concerts
Christmas in Maia wouldn’t be complete without the now-traditional seasonal concerts, scheduled for the afternoons of December 5, 12, 13, 19, and 20, always at 3 p.m.
Useful Information
📍Where: Praça Doutor José Vieira de Carvalho
⏰When: November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027
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