By the GoÓbidos Team●14 January 2015
Óbidos Medieval Market: Knights, Minstrels and Medieval Feasts
Every summer the village travels back to the Middle Ages: tournaments on horseback, fire-eaters, costumes to rent and taverns serving food and mead.
In this article
A trip to the Middle Ages Rent your costume What you will find Frequently asked questions
The Óbidos Medieval Market is a historical re-enactment that turns the village into a medieval town. For about 16 days, jesters, fire-eaters, dancers, musicians and minstrels take over the streets and carry visitors into another age.
It takes place in summer, usually in July and August, and is designed for the whole family.
A trip to the Middle Ages
While the market is on, Óbidos fully adopts the identity of those times. Inside the enclosure, knights compete on horseback in tournaments, while music and street performers keep the crowd entertained.
Rent your costume
It is normal to see visitors dressed as Templar knights, monks, princesses or queens. Costumes can be rented at several points in the village, and wearing one is part of the fun.
What you will find
Between shows, find a tavern to warm your stomach and throat: there is local food, craft beer and, of course, mead. Keep an eye on the dates, because the market happens once a year and is the best chance to be king for a day.
Want more? Read about Óbidos Castle or the other annual events, such as the Chocolate Festival and the Óbidos Christmas Village.
Recommended guided tour
Before the tournaments start, let a local guide show you the real medieval history of the castle, walls and queens of Óbidos.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Óbidos Medieval Market?
It takes place in summer, usually in July and August, over about 16 days. Check the official programme for this year’s dates.
Can I rent a medieval costume?
Yes. Costumes are rented at several points in the village and many visitors dress up for the day.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The market is designed for the whole family, with tournaments, music, jesters and street shows.
More about Óbidos
- Festivals in Óbidos
- Óbidos Castle
- The narrow streets of Óbidos
- What to do in Óbidos
- Guided tours in Óbidos
- Explore Óbidos
This article was prepared by the GoÓbidos team, the local tourist guide to Óbidos. Please check dates, opening hours and prices with the organisers before your visit.