Week of “Queima das Fitas” in Porto

First week of May each year is traditionally reserved for student festivities called “Queima das Fitas” meaning literally Ribbon Burning. The students that are in their final year burn the ribbons they have been carrying in their briefcase for the duration of their course. Below I have gathered some of the main traditions throughout the academic “Queima das Fitas” week. During every night of the week also a series of concerts takes place on the “Queimódromo”, next to the Parque da Cidade.

Saturday to Sunday at 00:01 – Monumental Serenata – Avenida dos Aliados

• “Monumental Serenade” marks the beginning of “Queima das Fitas” week at midnight from Saturday to Sunday at Avenida dos Aliados. Black cloaks cover downtown and Fado groups take the stage in an intimate and exciting environment.

Sunday at 11:01 – Missa da Benção das Pastas – Avenida dos Aliados

• “Mass of the Blessing of Academic Sashes” taking place on Monday noon also in Avenida dos Aliados is celebrated by the Bishop of Porto and it honors the journey taken by the students and blesses them for the adult life that is beginning now. It is a farewell, shared with family and friends.

Monday at 14:01 – Dia da Beneficência – around the city

• “Charity Day” is a symptom of an Academy that is increasingly supportive and socially responsible. Students travel around the city and collect donations in favor of charitable institutions and social causes.

Tuesday at 14:01 – Cortejo Académico – Praça da República to Avenida dos Aliados

• “Academic Parade” is the peak of “Queima das Fitas” festivities taking. Students from the universities and other higher education institutions of the city march through the downtown streets till they reach the city hall, where they are greeted by the mayor (currently Rui Moreira). The parade usually starts at 14:00 at Praça da República and continues via Rua João das Regras until Rua de Camões where the parade extends to the Tribune installed on Avenida dos Aliados.

Wednesday at 20:01 – Festival Ibérico de Tunas Académicas (abbreviated as “FITA”) – Casa da Música

• The festivities continue on Wednesday night with so called “Iberian Festival of Academic Music Bands” bringing together the best “tunas” – academic music bands – from the Porto Academy. This year, festival takes place at Casa da Música.

Thursday at 20:31 – Sarau Cultural – Teatro Sá da Bandeira

• “Cultural Soirée” is the stage for the unknown talents of the Porto Academy students. In a festive atmosphere, from music, dance, theater and much more, students unleash their artistic flair.

Friday at 20:01 – Baile de Gala – Casa dos Arcos

• “Gala Ball” with the aim of celebrating the journey that now ends and remembering the best moments as students, welcomes the finalists of the Academia do Porto on a noble and very special night.

Saturday at 13:01 – Rally Paper – downtown or Porto

• The festive week terminates with “Rally Paper”. With a view to promoting the city’s architectural and historical heritage, given its wealth and prestige, students are challenged to discover the most emblematic secrets of downtown Porto. In a relaxed atmosphere, students socialize with each other.