Event Details
Welcome to the Queima das Fitas Coimbra 2026
From 22 to 30 May 2026, Coimbra becomes the stage for the Queima das Fitas, one of the largest and oldest student festivals in Europe. Since the 1850s, students of the University of Coimbra have used this ritual to symbolically mark the end of their studies, traditionally by burning the colored ribbons (fitas) representing their faculty. Over nine days, the festival blends centuries old academic traditions with concerts and lively celebrations.
Highlights
- Serenata Monumental, the ceremonial opening at Sé Velha
- Cortejo, the grand student parade with decorated floats
- Nine nights of concerts in the park, the Noites do Parque
- Baile de Gala das Faculdades at the Estádio Universitário
- Traditional burning of the faculty ribbons
- Coimbra's historic old town as a unique backdrop
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Program
Academic week begins on 22 May with the Serenata Monumental on the steps of Sé Velha, where students perform traditional fado songs. In the following days, the Cortejo (parade of graduating students with decorated floats) and the Queima do Grelo take place. Every evening, the Noites do Parque at Praça da Canção bring live music from national and international artists. The festival closes on 30 May with the grand Cortejo Monumental through Coimbra's city center.
Tickets
Daily tickets for the concerts at Praça da Canção cost between 12 and 20 euros, depending on the evening's lineup. A full pass for all nine nights is available from around 35 euros for students with a valid card and around 55 euros for the general public. Tickets are sold through bol.pt, Bilheteira FNAC and at the box offices of the Associação Académica de Coimbra; buying early pays off, since prices rise closer to the event.
Visitor Tips
- Wear comfortable, closed shoes, as you will be walking a lot during the festival.
- The venue opens around 10:00 PM, but the main concerts usually don't start until midnight.
- Praça da Canção is about a 15 minute walk from the old town.
- Extra night buses run on the busiest nights, including to Lisbon, Porto and Aveiro.
- Buy tickets early, since prices increase from the beginning of May.
