Colors of Lagos - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The beautiful traditions of Lagos have a lot of interesting manifestations. Special cuisine, a variety of traditional applied arts, colorful festivals and regional holidays are just a few of the ways to get acquainted with an authentic lifestyle of local people. The resort is characterized by a very lively atmosphere due to a large number of tourists visiting it all year round. Locals are very welcoming and friendly to foreign guests, and on traditional holidays, any borders between city dwellers and tourists disappear at all.

Locals remain true to many of their traditions - like many years ago, Lagos is considered the land of fishermen. Fishing has always been the principal livelihood for many citizens so many professional fishermen live here today. Throughout the year, Lagos hosts several major competitions with the participation of fishermen from other regions of Portugal.

Familiarity with traditional applied arts remains one of the most interesting entertainments for travelers. In Lagos, you'll find many handicraft workshops and souvenir shops where craftsmen make unique things with their hands. Among other crafts, the manufacture of pottery is really widespread. From ceramics, craftsmen make beautiful dishes, vases and home decorations, and some of them know how to make original ceramic jewelry. Customers are always welcome in such workshops, here they can not only buy unique souvenirs but also master a new craft. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another interesting craft that is not common in other regions of the country is cork carving. Here, hundreds of accessories are made from corkwood, ranging from traditional trinkets to chic hats and shoes. Such products can be bought in all local markets or in one of the many gift shops. The city often holds spontaneous fairs, which are true handicraft art exhibitions. They typically open near churches and in the harbor area.

Lagos is also famous for its gastronomic traditions. In the vicinity of the city, there are large vineyards and historic wineries. Local wines are among the best in Portugal, the traditions of making some varieties date back hundreds of years. In Lagos, you will find many specialized wine shops where you can try popular wines and buy ones you like.

It would be especially interesting to visit the city when holidays and festivals are held here. February is considered one of the most interesting and eventful months in this regard. In February, Lagos hosts a traditional carnival in which literally all local people take part. The celebration lasts for several days and its main actions are colorful processions passing through the main city streets.

The carnival is organized just before Lent, therefore, rich treats are an essential part of the holiday. During the festival, stands full of popular foods can be seen on all city streets, as well as open kitchens where dishes are prepared right in front of visitors. Famous music bands and dance groups perform for the audience within the framework of the carnival in Lagos. All kinds of interesting children's activities are held here too.

When it comes to religious holidays, Easter has always been the most solemn and beautiful one. Preparations for the Easter Sunday are always very active. On the festive day, solemn processions and special church services take place in the city. Musical concerts and fairs are organized in the afternoon. The beautiful religious holiday in Lagos has its own unique symbol - Folar, a traditional Easter bread. It is necessarily baked with Easter eggs, which are put into the cake right in their shells.

Lagos is considered a very modern and dynamic city. Despite this status, it has not lost its unique cultural charm. At any time of the year, here you can witness colorful festivals and fairs which are always actively participated by ordinary city dwellers. Lagos is a permanent venue for wine and fish festivals, which are attended not only by curious tourists but also by professional experts from various countries. In recent years, Lagos received the status of an elite resort for its many luxury villas and hotels. Nevertheless, it still keeps a very casual and informal atmosphere that makes the rest comfortable for absolutely everyone, regardless of the level of income.