Queima das Fitas is an old tradition among university students in major cities. As the school year ends, final-year students burn the ribbons they have been carrying in their briefcase for the duration of their studies.

These ribbons usually bear messages from loved ones and mark the transition from student life to the professional world. But of course, it’s not just graduating seniors who celebrate – all university students come and join the party.

The celebrations usually involve drinking a lot of beer and hard alcohol from huts the students themselves built while listening to concerts in “Queimódromo” (“burning place”). Even if the event is not your type, you should try attending since it’s one of the most traditional celebrations this week.

Pssst… Join our Food & Drink Tours and discover a side of Porto that most tourists rarely see »

First, there will be “Cortejo Académico”. Quite a spectacular stroll of thousands of students through the streets of downtown Porto. The students are grouped by their courses (which have distinct colors based on the faculty and university) and often have decorative gigantic vehicles like the ones one sees in Rio de Janeiro for Carnival.

Then, at the Coliseu do Porto, the annual FITA takes place – the International Festival of Academic “Tunas”. Don’t know what it is? Check this out:

As Queima das Fitas comes to an end with its exciting shows and friendly gatherings, everyone, from students to onlookers, is reminded of the lively university culture that makes Porto special. To learn more about Queima das Fitas, join one of our Porto Food Tours, and we’ll fill you in!

Cheers!
Your Porto Foodie Friends