The Bairro Português Festival is back on Saturday 22 March – and it’s everything you need to kick off a weekend of fun, food and family-friendly vibes in the heart of Sydney’s Inner West, Petersham.
“Bairro,” meaning “neighbourhood” in Portuguese, perfectly captures the spirit of this festival which happens to be the largest Portuguese festival in Australia. At Bairro Português It’s all about community, with a lively, inclusive vibe that welcomes everyone. From little ones to adults, there’s something for every age group to enjoy, making it the ultimate family-friendly event. Expect a jam-packed program of activities that bring people together to celebrate culture, creativity, and connection. Plus, whilst you’re in the heart of “Little Portugal”, don’t miss out on sampling local fare from the variety of Portuguese diners, cafes and delis dotted along New Canterbury Road.
From samba beats to local dancing groups showcasing traditional folk dance, the Bairro Português Festival’s music lineup brings the energy. On the main stage, you’ll find a mix of performers, bands and groups and music from the Portuguese diaspora from all corners of the globe, reflecting the cultural richness of the Inner West.
For more info on the artists, click here.
Plus DJ duo Heróis do Bar will be cranking out the sound-track to your day with high-energy tunes that fuse traditional Portuguese sounds with modern electronic beats.
Kids can join Brazilian-born artist Keila Terencio and earn Portuguese animal names or create their own finger puppet inspired by the legendary Rooster of Barcelos. Keila, known for her work in physical theatre and puppetry, combines storytelling with culture and identity in a way that engages the whole family. With a background in major festivals and exhibitions, Keila offers an interactive experience that celebrates Portuguese tradition.
No festival is complete without great food, and Bairro delivers. Expect sweet treats and pastel de nata (Portuguese Tarts) from the team at Sweet Belem Cakes and Natas and Co, handmade gourmet Portuguese churros from Dos Churros and bifanas (Portuguese pork sandwiches) aplenty.
Audley and Fisher streets in Petersham will come alive with roving street performers who invite you to join the fun. Enjoy world beats from the Batucada Funk drumming groups and traditional melodies from Portugal courtesy of Grupo Portugues de Concertinas.
Looking for something unique? The Bairro Festival also features a lively market where you can pick up handmade goods, from Portuguese ceramics and gourmet tinned sardines courtesy of Doce D’amour to the Doormat Society’s unique doormat designs and vibrant artworks from illustrated works and prints from Australian Portuguese artist Emila Toaza.
When: Saturday 22 March 2025, 3pm – 9pm
Where: Audley & Fisher Sts, Petersham
Cost: Free entry
More info: Bairro Portugues Festival 2025