Every year, on December 8th, Our Lady of Conception is honored in the city of Quarteira, making it one of the most emblematic religious festivals in the south of the country. This celebration is highly acclaimed by the people and deeply rooted in the city's fishing community - the Image of Our Lady of Conception was found by fishermen in their nets over 200 years ago.
This year, the tradition continues once again, with the Patron Saint's image parading through the streets for the procession, both on land and at sea.
The celebrations begin on the evening of December 7th with the candlelight procession between the churches of Our Lady of Conception and São Pedro do Mar. Then, on the 8th, there will be the celebration of the Eucharist at the Church of São Pedro do Mar, followed by the procession of the Image along the waterfront.
At sea, boats accompany the procession carrying another Image and celebrating the Patron Saint to the fishing port, where the two Images come together, and a small chapel is erected. Our Lady is greeted, and the fishermen and their boats are blessed, after which the two Images return to their respective chapels.
This year's celebration is marked by the return of the fair at Nossa Senhora da Conceição Square, where there will be music and diverse gastronomy.
Check here for the complete program and schedule.
Source and photo credits: Junta de Freguesia de Quarteira
December 7, 2022