Would you eat snails? Castro Marim celebrates Portugal’s surprising summer delicacy

Snails may not be on everyone’s menu, but in Portugal they are a much-loved summer tradition – and nowhere is that passion more evident than at the International Snail Festival (Festival Internacional do Caracol) in Castro Marim.

Running from July 17 to 19 at the Revelim de Santo António, the festival invites visitors to discover one of Portugal’s most distinctive seasonal dishes while enjoying live music, local gastronomy and Mediterranean culture.

Across the three-day event, local associations and clubs will serve up a variety of snail recipes, ranging from the classic caracóis simmered with garlic, oregano and herbs to more inventive creations such as Xarém de Caracóis – a traditional Algarve cornmeal dish with snails – and Caracol à Brás, a twist on the famous Portuguese recipe normally made with shredded cod, eggs and potatoes.

For many foreigners, eating snails may seem unusual, but they have long been a favourite summer snack in Portugal, often enjoyed with a cold beer on warm evenings. The festival aims to celebrate that culinary tradition while highlighting the Algarve’s wider gastronomic heritage.

Visitors who are less adventurous need not worry, as the food stalls will also serve a selection of other regional specialities.

Alongside the food, the festival features three evenings of live entertainment. On Friday, July 17, street performers Olho’s 4 take to the festival grounds from 6.30pm, followed by concerts from Spain’s Los Gorumelos at 8pm and Portuguese band Ús Sai de Gatas at 10pm.

Saturday’s programme begins with Pardais à Solta at 6.30pm, before Spanish group Los Forenhos performs at 8pm. The evening concludes with concerts by Os Quadrilha and Sebastião Antunes.

On the final day, Charanga Los del Ruedo will entertain visitors from 6.30pm, followed by performances from Aurora Gonçalves and Aníbal Vinhas, before Angolan music legend Bonga closes the festival.

Organised by Castro Marim Municipal Council with the support of local clubs and associations, the event aims to promote the town as one of the Algarve’s leading destinations for traditional snail dishes while celebrating Mediterranean cuisine and local culture.

Admission is free.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.