In Meruge, autumn brings with it the aroma of the smokehouse, the hustle and bustle of the market, and the celebration of Beira traditions. The Pork and Sausage Fair returns to bring Lage Grande to life with its 23rd edition, on 7 and 8 November, reaffirming its status as one of the most authentic and well-attended festivals in the rural heart of the Centro region.

Created to pay tribute to the parish’s former “pork market traders” and “live cattle traders”, this initiative preserves the knowledge of generations dedicated to the art of making sausages and celebrates the identity of the so-called “Land of the Sausage Makers”.

For two days, the village is transformed into a stage of non-stop entertainment, featuring historical re-enactments, traditional cuisine, crafts and experiences linked to rural heritage. Highlights include the re-enactment of the “Old Market” by the Almanach Historical Theatre Group, live traditional sausage-making, and the famous “Market of Smells and Flavours”, where Arroz da Suã takes pride of place alongside other traditional specialities.

In Praça do Fumeiro, local producers showcase chorizo, farinheira, alheira, hams and black pudding, all made using ancestral methods preserved by generations of “porqueiros”. Meanwhile, the Bísaro Pig Exhibition promises to delight families and visitors of all ages.

Among the highlights will be Arroz da Suã, pork crackling in a caçoila with split potatoes, Feijoada à Moda de Nogueirinha, Bísaro pork on a spit, meatballs and the traditional aniseed rice pudding. The organisers will also provide caçoilas and a bonfire for anyone wishing to cook the meat purchased at the fair on site.

The Pork and Sausage Fair is organised by the Meruge Parish Council and the Municipality of Oliveira do Hospital. 

Discover the authenticity of the mountain traditions and make the most of the experience by staying in the region. Book accommodation at bookinxisto.com and enjoy a weekend full of culture, gastronomy and hospitality.