The Parish of Rio de Mouro promotes between September 5th and 13th the traditional Festivities in Honor of Our Lady of Cabo Espichel, a free-entry event that takes place every 26 years. The grounds of the feira das Mercês, in Rinchoa, host the festivities which include religious moments, processions, traditional fair and a diversified program of musical entertainment.
The festivities began on Saturday, September 5th, at 1:00 PM, with the reception of the patron saint's image from Montelavar, followed at 5:30 PM by the Círio procession through the streets of the parish, accompanied by the GNR Band. The procession culminated at 8:00 PM at the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora de Belém, with a fireworks display. On Sunday, the 6th, at 4:00 PM, the Outdoor Mass was held presided by D. Joaquim Mendes, followed by the Solemn Procession.
Throughout the weekdays, the grounds open daily at 5:00 PM, with recitation of the rosary at the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Mercês at 8:00 PM and musical shows starting at 9:30 PM. The musical program includes Tribute to ABBA, Popular Tribute, Dupla Meta Cá Sets, Rouxinol Faduno, Show Forever Marco, DJ Sandro Saldanha and Edmundo Inácio.
The closing on Sunday, September 13th, includes an Outdoor Mass at the grounds at 4:00 PM, followed by the performance of the Grupo de Bombos das Mercês and the Grupo Folclórico e Cultural da Rinchoa. The event features restaurant areas, confectionery, handicrafts and amusement rides, with the support of the Sintra Municipal Council and the Rio de Mouro Parish Council.
