Coimbra's magic festival continues through Sunday. Much of it happens in the street
The 30th Encontros Mágicos brings international performers to central Coimbra and surrounding parishes, with street shows alongside programmed indoor events.
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Archived 12 September 2026Visitors do not need to assume the festival is one ticketed gala: its defining programme includes public-space performances around the city.
- The festival continues until Sunday, 20 September.
- Sixteen performers are taking part in the anniversary edition led artistically by Luís de Matos.
- Street performances are a central part of the festival, while some indoor events may have separate tickets or capacity limits.
A festival spread across Coimbra
Encontros Mágicos is designed as a city festival rather than a single-stage production. Performances take place in the Baixa and in other parts of the municipality, bringing short-form illusion and close-up work into public spaces.
The 30th edition includes 16 performers selected by the production team. The programme also uses the Convento São Francisco and includes Contranatura, an exhibition by Italian magician and photographer Mattia Bidoli.
Check the exact session before travelling
A street programme can be flexible, while a theatre or exhibition visit may use a fixed start time, ticket or room limit. Confirm the session and venue rather than relying on a general festival date.
Central Coimbra can be busy during a festival weekend. Build in walking time between the Baixa and an indoor venue, and use the city's current transport information if mobility or late-evening travel is important.
What you can do now.
- 01
Choose a specific performance area or session before setting out.
- 02
Check whether the event is free, ticketed or subject to room capacity.
- 03
Allow extra walking and transport time in central Coimbra.
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