The Parish of Rio de Mouro promotes between September 5th and 13th the traditional Festivities in Honour of Our Lady of Cabo Espichel, an event that takes place every 26 years, with free entry, at the Recinto da Feira das Mercês, in Rinchoa. The festivities include religious moments, processions, a traditional fair and a diverse programme of musical entertainment, with support from the Sintra Municipal Council and the Junta de Freguesia de Rio de Mouro.
The festivities begin on Saturday, September 5th, at 1:00 PM, with the reception of the patron saint's image from Montelavar. At 5:30 PM, the Círio procession takes place through the streets of the parish, accompanied by the GNR Wind Band, culminating at 8:00 PM at the Matriz Church of Nossa Senhora de Belém, a moment marked by a fireworks display.
On Sunday, September 6th, at 4:00 PM, an Open-air Mass is held presided by D. Joaquim Mendes at the Matriz Church, followed by the Solemn Procession. At 7:00 PM, the Banda Filarmónica Nossa Senhora da Fé de Monte Abraão presents a concert dedicated to Our Lady of Cabo Espichel. Throughout the weekdays, the venue opens at 5:00 PM, with recitation of the rosary at the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Mercês at 8:00 PM and musical performances starting at 9:30 PM, including tributes to ABBA, Tributo Popular, Dupla Meta Cá Sets, Rouxinol Faduncho, the show "Para Sempre Marco" and Edmundo Inácio.
On the last weekend, the venue opens at 10:00 AM. On Saturday, September 12th, there is a Zumba class at 11:00 AM, entertainment by Tuna Inoportuna at 5:00 PM and concerts by Edmundo Inácio and DJ Gonçalo. The closing on Sunday, September 13th, includes an Open-air Mass at 4:00 PM, followed by performances by the Grupo de Bombos das Mercês and the Grupo Folclórico e Cultural da Rinchoa. The event also has catering, confectionery, craft and amusement areas.
