The Chocalhos festival returns to Alpedrinha, in the municipality of Fundão, for its latest edition between September 18 and 20. The event celebrates the traditional paths traveled by flocks during the months of the year, from summer in Serra da Estrela to the fields of Idanha-a-Nova in early autumn, returning to Estrela with the arrival of spring.
The Fundão Town Hall is the promoter of the event, which over three days presents activities aimed at promoting pastoral heritage, popular and traditional music, native cattle breeds and shepherd dogs, as well as allowing the tasting of gastronomic products from the region. The aim is to keep the imagery of pastoral culture alive and pass on the history and traditions of this ancestral activity.
On Friday, the 18th, the opening is scheduled for 6 PM, with entertainment from groups such as Zabumbas de Alpedrinha, Sounds of the Mountain, Staves of Beira or Manta de Ourelos, followed by a procession and fire show at the matriz church. On Saturday, the 19th, highlights include the hike "Discovering the aromatics of Serra da Gardunha," a dog exhibition, workshops associated with shepherding, showcooking with Chef Maria Caldeira, and a round table on the Bombo in Portuguese tradition.
On Sunday, the 20th, the highlight is the walk with flocks between Fundão and Alpedrinha at 8 AM, free but requiring advance registration at the Fundão Tourist Office. In the afternoon, there will be herding demonstrations, a pastoral parade and celebration, and in the evening, the closing concert with Musicalbi.
