The Aldeias do Xisto of Góis are once again honoring tradition by hosting another edition of the Carnival Race. This year's celebration will take place on February 15.
Revelers, dressed in old clothes and traditional cork masks, will gather early, at 8:30am in Aigra Nova and then set off toward the neighboring villages.
The traditional route through the mountain villages also includes other moments of conviviality, celebration and learning, including a Mask Workshop, entertainment with Quadras and Concertinas, traditional games and the symbolic Burning of the Entrudo, which marks the end of the festivities.
At the end of the race, lunch is served, featuring a variety of mountain flavours. Advance booking is required through Lousitânea - Liga de Amigos da Serra da Lousã, the organising body.
Race Schedule:
08:30 a.m. — Meeting point in Aigra Nova
09:00 a.m. — Departure of buses with participants
09:15 a.m. — Stop in Pena for a photo opportunity next to the Old Chestnut Tree
09:40 a.m. — Arrival at the Schist Village of Cerdeira
11:35 a.m. — Arrival at Esporão
12:40 p.m. — Arrival at Ponte do Sótão
1:30 p.m. — Arrival at Aigra Nova
Programme for the day in the Schist Village of Aigra Nova:
10:00 a.m. — Mask Workshop (registration required)
12:30 p.m. — Lunch for visitors (registration required)
1:30 p.m. — Arrival of the revellers from the Entrudo Race
1:35 p.m. — Lunch for the revellers
2:30 p.m. — Quadras & Concertinas
3:00 p.m. — Institutional speeches
3:30 p.m. — Jogo do Pau do Presunto e do Bacalhau (Ham and Cod Stick Game)
5:30 p.m. — Burning of the Doll / Burning of Entrudo
This event is organized by Lousitânea with the support of the Aldeias do Xisto and the Góis Municipality. Plan your stay at bookinxisto.com.
