Feira Nacional do Cavalo 2025 in Golegã – Portugal’s Equestrian Celebration 🇵🇹🐎
If you love horses, heritage and atmosphere, then the Feira Nacional do Cavalo in Golegã is an event you’ll never forget. From 7–16 November 2025, the quiet Ribatejo town transforms into a vibrant equestrian festival filled with history, elegance, and tradition.
📍 Where is it?
Golegã, in the heart of Portugal’s Ribatejo region, lies about 130 km northeast of Lisbon, between the Tagus and Almonda rivers. Often called the “Capital of the Horse”, this charming town becomes a living equestrian stage every November.
🕰️ A Tradition Rooted in Centuries
The fair’s origins date back to the 18th century, when it was known as the Feira de São Martinho (Saint Martin’s Fair). Over the years, it evolved from a humble agricultural gathering into Portugal’s premier celebration of the Lusitano horse, a national symbol of grace and strength.
Since 1972, it has carried the official title Feira Nacional do Cavalo.
The highlight always falls on 11 November – Saint Martin’s Day, marked by the scent of roasted chestnuts and the taste of new wine, both deeply rooted Portuguese traditions.
🐴 What You’ll Experience
From the moment you arrive, Golegã feels like stepping back in time:
- Magnificent Lusitano horses parading through the streets and arenas.
- Riders and breeders dressed in traditional Portuguese attire – wide-brim hats, short jackets and tailored riding outfits.
- Horse-drawn carriages moving alongside pedestrians, and families celebrating late into the night.
I still remember the first time I walked into Golegã three years ago, as a Dutch girl living in Portugal — it felt like entering an old movie. I could imagine how families must have lived hundreds of years ago: people drinking beer on horseback, laughing, even dancing with their horses until the early hours. The atmosphere is electric — music, joy, friendship… and yes, as the days go by, quite a few tipsy riders too!
Every corner is alive: market stalls selling everything from tack, leather goods and riding clothes to artisan crafts and local delicacies. And everywhere, that unmistakable smell of roasted chestnuts (castanhas assadas) — the symbol of Saint Martin’s celebrations.
🌿 Prime Hay Portugal at Golegã 2025
Each year, Prime Hay Portugal is proud to support horses and riders staying in and around Golegã during the fair.
We supply top-quality hay, shavings for bedding, straw, and premium feed from Pavo & Cavalor — everything your horses need to stay healthy, calm and performing at their best.
🗓 Deliveries take place on November 5–6, just before the fair begins.
If you’d like to pre-order your hay or feed, please contact us via:
📞 +351 926 368 608
📧 info@primehayportugal.com
🌐 www.primehayportugal.com
We deliver directly to your stable, house or accommodation in Golegã or surrounding areas — making sure your horses are well prepared before the festivities begin.
💡 Visiting Tips
- Book early – accommodation fills fast.
- Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll walk plenty, from stables to taverns.
- Explore on foot – the best experiences happen between the streets, not just in the arena.
- Visit on November 11 – Saint Martin’s Day is the true heartbeat of the fair.
- Bring your camera – every street corner is a perfect photo moment.
🌟 Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Golegã Horse Fair is far more than a trade event. It’s a living celebration of Portuguese culture, where horses, people and tradition blend into one unforgettable experience.
If you work in the equestrian world, photography, lifestyle, or simply love horses, Golegã 2025 is the event that connects passion, heritage and community.
📚 Sources https://feiradagolega.com/en/program/
- The Cavago Blog – Golegã Horse Fair Complete Guide
- Lusitano Horse Finder – Golegã National Horse Fair
- Portugal Portfolio – The Historic Feira Nacional do Cavalo
- FEI – The Magic of the Golegã National Horse Fair
- Wikipedia – Feira Nacional do Cavalo (Golegã)
