Portugal’s biggest vegan fair returns to Loulé with 5,000 meals expected

Portugal’s largest vegan fair is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors to the Algarve as FAVA returns to Loulé for its seventh edition from 18–20 September 2026.

Taking place at Parque Municipal de Loulé, the three-day event will bring together plant-based food, sustainability, conscious consumption, wellbeing and entertainment across more than 14,000 square metres. The programme will feature more than 100 exhibitors representing 20 different sectors, alongside more than 100 free activities for visitors of all ages.

FAVA was launched in 2018 as a project of Associação Benfazer, with the support of Loulé City Council. Its focus extends beyond plant-based living, with the event placing social, environmental and animal wellbeing at the centre of its programme.

Food is expected to be one of the biggest attractions. More than 30 food and drink stalls and food trucks will serve everything from francesinhas, burgers and pizzas to pastries, cakes, tarts and ice creams. Visitors will also be able to enjoy spice teas, smoothies, craft beers and other plant-based drinks.

Organisers are aiming to serve around 5,000 meals during this year’s fair, surpassing the 4,125 meals served in 2025. Last year, FAVA attracted 140 exhibitors and offered 135 activities and performances in collaboration with around 50 partner organisations.

Event activities

The 2026 programme will include 17 theatre, poetry, live music, dance and magic performances, as well as talks and showcookings. Guests include vegan Asian cuisine creator Victoria Ye, the team behind Desafio Vegetariano PT and nutritionist Inês Lapa from Nutricionista Explica.

There will also be plenty for visitors looking to stay active, with Pilates, yoga, capoeira, dance and Tai Chi sessions planned throughout the weekend. Children can take part in traditional games, chess and creative workshops, while Casa da Primeira Infância will provide additional activities for younger visitors.

FAVA will also promote reuse through a clothing, footwear, accessories and book swap market. A Repair Café will give visitors the opportunity to bring broken belongings and learn how to repair them with the help of specialist volunteers.

Sustainability will remain central to the event itself. FAVA does not use fuel-powered generators, while its tableware is either compostable or reusable. Single-use plastic cups and bottles will not be used, and visitors will have access to free water fountains throughout the venue. Reused fabric bags will also replace conventional plastic bags.

All food served at FAVA will be 100% plant-based, reinforcing the fair’s wider environmental message. The organisers hope the event will demonstrate that large-scale gatherings can welcome thousands of people while reducing waste, protecting animals and lowering environmental impact.

FAVA 2026 will open on Friday 18 September from 18:00 to 23:00, Saturday 19 September from 11:00 to 23:00, and Sunday 20 September from 11:00 to 20:00. Admission is completely free.