In the blink of an eye, we’re almost at the end of the year. However, there’s plenty to do in December in and around Porto… And no, our suggestions aren’t just for Christmas.
From concerts to themed events, not to mention exhibitions and immersive experiences, there’s something for everyone. So take a look and write down your favorites!
Table Of Contents
Attend immersive concerts at the Clérigos Church
After the success of Spiritus of Classical Music, the immersive concerts return to the iconic Clérigos Church, one of the most beautiful in Porto, for a special Christmas edition: Spiritus Natalis.
In all, you can attend six immersive concerts, where some of the Christmas classics will be played live. Along with the emblematic pipe organs, violin, trumpet and soprano voice, the show includes 360º projections.
📍Clérigos Church, Rua de São Filipe de Nery
📅From November 28th to January 2nd
Going to a ballet show
If you’re looking for a different activity for the month of December, how about going to a ballet show? Known for its technical difficulty and delicacy, this is a much-loved art form and a perfect plan to do with family, friends or your better half.
In this context, the Hilton Porto Gaia, in Vila Nova de Gaia, will once again be the setting for a special edition of the show “Candlelight Ballet: The Nutcracker”, on December 14. A unique experience where you can rediscover Tchaikovsky’s music by candlelight.
📍Rua de Serpa Pinto 124, Vila Nova de Gaia
📅 December 14, at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
🎫Billboards at Fever
Enjoying the Christmas lights
The official inauguration of the lights in Porto took place this Saturday, November 30, with a huge firework display and a video mapping show.
So take advantage of the Christmas magic already being felt throughout the city and enjoy the typical decorations of the season, try out the ice rink and take lots of photos of the more than 90 illuminated streets.
📍Avenida dos Aliados
📅 From November 30 to January 6, 2025
🎫Free access
Taking the family to musicals
The Christmas season is ripe for musicals… and Porto is no exception. So take advantage of this month to see some of the shows on stage in and around the city, such as:
- “Alice in Wonderland”
- “Tarzan The Musical
- “Nutcracker and the Kingdom of Ice”
📍Various locations in and around Porto
📅Various dates in December and January
‘Delirium’ with Bridgerton by candlelight
“Bridgerton”, available on the Netflix streaming platform, is one of the most successful series in the world. With many fans all over the world, here comes a special “Candlelight: The Best of Bridgerton”.
In a magical setting and under the faint light of hundreds of candles, you can listen to your favorite melodies from the series (re)imagined by a talented string quartet .
📍Pestana Palácio do Freixo, in Porto
📅 December 4th and 18th
Tickets from 28€
Immerse yourself in the world of surrealism
“Dalí Cybernetics” is the world’s largest digital exhibition dedicated to the famous Spanish artist Salvador Dalí. On display at the Alfândega do Porto, Immersivus Gallery, you can visit this interactive (and immersive) exhibition from Tuesday to Sunday, from 14h00 to 18h00.
For about an hour, you can learn more about the mind and work of Salvador Dalí, as well as have a great time with 360º projections, virtual reality equipment and much more. An activity for kids and adults alike.
📅Various dates
Tickets from €12 (and different options)
Visit the Wild Lights
During the month of December, you can go to the Santo Inácio Zoo, the largest in the northern region, and visit the immersive exhibition Wild Lights.
With more than 600 animated animal and plant figures, this is a different experience. It should also be noted that along the illuminated route, the initiative features interactive games and illuminated swings.
📍Rua 5 de Outubro 4503, Avintes (municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia)
📅Until February 2025
🎫Prices from €11.50 (visit to the zoo + Wild Lights) or from €6.50 (access to the immersive exhibition)
Dinner with a bohemian flavor
If you’re looking for a different evening, then you should know that there are some show dinners taking place in Greater Porto, such as The Show Dinner.
Hosted by the 1828 restaurant in WOW (Vila Nova de Gaia’s cultural quarter), this event takes place on the evenings of November 21 and 28 and December 5.
There, the waiters are the artists themselves, in an atmosphere where every detail is rehearsed. A real mix of gastronomy, art and entertainment with live music and dancing.
📍Restaurant 1828, WOW
📅 November 21 and 28; December 5
Tickets from €125
Celebrating New Year’s Eve
December is synonymous with lots of parties and entertainment, with New Year’s Eve being one of the most eagerly awaited moments.
If you’re thinking of staying in town, then take a look at this article, where you’ll find some party tips for the last night of 2024!
Editor’s note: this article will be updated frequently with new plans and activities as and when appropriate!