The 633rd edition of the São Mateus Fair, whose program was unveiled this evening, will last 46 days and promises a wide array of activities including sports, sustainability initiatives, diverse musical performances, and entertainment suitable for all ages, alongside new culinary offerings.
The fair’s stage will feature artists such as Matias Damásio (August 8), Dillaz (August 9), Para Sempre Marco (August 15), Nininho Vaz Maia (August 19), Bárbara Tinoco (August 22), Miguel Araújo (August 23), Carolina de Deus (August 26), Bispo (September 13), and João Só (September 16).
“It is astonishing to reflect on the history of our fair and to recognize its evolution, growing alongside the city and community. This qualitative growth is acknowledged by the public and evident in the numerous national and international awards it has received,” emphasized Fernando Ruas, the Mayor of Viseu.
The mayor highlighted the fair’s “harmonious growth that honors traditions and customs developed over the years while embracing necessary modernization, reflected in the changes implemented to improve the space and offerings.”
According to Fernando Ruas, “each year, the São Mateus Fair reaches new levels of maturity, establishing itself as a strong and emblematic brand in Portugal’s Centro region.”
Pedro Alves, the president of Viseu Marca, the fair’s organizing entity, noted that “the fair was recently recognized by Central Portugal Tourism with an award for its contributions to the development and notoriety of the Centro region, highlighting its unique role in this mission.”
“In this new edition, we will certainly continue that mission and boost tourism and the region’s economy. We look forward to welcoming thousands of Portuguese citizens, emigrants, and tourists to one of the most significant and noteworthy events in the central region and the country,” he stressed.
Regarding sports, approximately 60 activities are planned for amateurs and professionals, including the 42nd Carlos Lopes Half Marathon, the 4th Gaming Tournament, the 4th Cycling Marathon, the 2nd BTT Ride, the 4th Padel Tournament, and a Martial Arts Tournament to be held for the first time.
The organization remains committed to sustainability, showcasing new features like two murals created by Viseu school students on this theme (to be displayed at two entrances of Campo do Viriato) and the Environmental Awareness Route, where visitors will encounter information about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals throughout the venue.
On August 29, the Mateus Fest returns for its second year, designed specifically for a younger audience.
Confirmed performers include Van Zee, Lon3r Johny, and ProfJam, with the headline act set to be announced in the coming days.
Fernando Ruas remarked, “The Mateus Fest has forged its own identity and enters its second year with an excellent lineup that will delight the young audience.”
“This year’s theme is ‘Viseu, the city to be happy in,’ and once again, we have a São Mateus Fair and a Mateus Fest that promise many happy moments, the creation of good memories, plenty of fun, and extensive offerings for all audiences,” emphasized Pedro Alves.
