ENTRUDO CHOCADEIRO - MACEDO DE CAVALEIROS

There are many Caretos. But the Caretos of Podence are the only ones that, since December 2019, have been included on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Every year during Entrudo (Carnival), the peace that usually reigns in this village of about 200 inhabitants, in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, is disrupted by these mischievous characters who take to the streets to rattle their cowbells and tease young women.

The Caretos represent a Carnival tradition from Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro with Celtic roots dating back to the pre-Roman period, probably linked to the presence of the Gallaeci and Bracari peoples in Galicia and northern Portugal. On Fat Sunday and Carnival Tuesday, the young men of the village embody these mysterious characters and, full of energy, run through Podence jumping and shouting. One of the main reasons for these chases is to find young women to dance with them and “rattle” them with their bells. This relationship between the Caretos and women symbolizes the fertility that the land begins to gain at this time of year. During the Carnival days, the Caretos of Podence run through the streets of this northeastern Trás-os-Montes village to celebrate one of the most authentic Carnivals in Portugal.

Start Date:
February 14, 2026
End Date:
February 17, 2026

Podence – Macedo de Cavaleiros

Email:
careto.podence@gmail.com

Website:
https://www.caretosdepodence.pt

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