In Meruge, autumn brings with it the aroma of smoked meats, the hustle and bustle of the fair and the celebration of Beira traditions. The Pig and Sausage Fair returns to enliven Lage Grande with its 22nd edition on 8 and 9 November, reaffirming itself as one of the most authentic and popular festivals in the rural world of the Central region.

Created to pay tribute to the parish's former ‘pork and livestock market traders’, this initiative preserves the knowledge of generations dedicated to the art of sausage making and promotes the identity of the so-called ‘Land of Pig Farmers’.

For two days, Meruge is transformed into a great stage for gastronomy, theatre, music and socialising. The Almanach Historical Theatre Group recreates the Old Fair, while the Associative Taverns serve emblematic flavours such as Arroz da Suã (Suã rice), Porco Bísaro no Espeto (Bísaro pork on a skewer) or Torresmos na Caçoila (pork crackling in a pot).

In Praça do Fumeiro, visitors can find traditional sausages and watch them being made live. The programme also includes the Family Farming Fair, the Bísaro Pig Exhibition, the Community Oven, Magusto na Caruma, donkey rides, activities for children and bagpipe gatherings.

Organised by the Meruge Parish Council and the Municipality of Oliveira do Hospital, the Pork and Sausage Fair is a tribute to rural culture and the hospitality of the mountain people. Plan your entire stay at bookinxisto.com.