On February 28th and March 1st, the Parques de Sintra Camellia Exhibition returns to the heart of the historic center, in front of the National Palace of Sintra, for its 13th edition. In addition to the exhibition and competition that distinguishes the most beautiful camellia specimens, the event will also feature free workshops and the sale of products related to this emblematic flower.
In bloom between October and April, the camellias that fill the gardens and estates of Sintra have become a true symbol of the Sintra winter, inspiring dances and celebrations throughout the years. With the aim of promoting this unique botanical heritage and bringing it closer to an ever-wider audience, Parques de Sintra annually organizes an exhibition that brings together some of the most remarkable camellia collections in the region, with the participation of several historic estates and gardens.
Beyond the gardens of Sintra with renowned public collections — such as the Pena Park, whose collection began in the 19th century on the initiative of Ferdinand II and which has been distinguished, since 2014, as a Camellia Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society — the mountain range includes around 200 estates, many of which hold important private collections of camellias.
In addition to the exhibition, and with the aim of showcasing this vast heritage, on the following weekends, until March 21st, the public is invited to visit camellia collections such as those at Parque da Liberdade, Chalet Biester, Quinta do Relógio and Quinta da Regaleira.
Exhibition Program
Saturday, February 28th 12:00 PM: Opening
3:00 PM: Opening session of the exhibition and announcement of the winners of the competition.
4:30 PM: Guided tour of the exhibition
5:30 PM: Workshop | Pruning and propagation of camellias
6:00 PM: End of the day
Sunday, March 1st 9:30 AM: Opening
10:00 AM: Guided tour of the exhibition - special for families
3:00 PM: Workshop | Pastry and drink inspired by the camellia (by the Colares Hospitality School)
4:30 PM: Workshop | Cacimba Gin Cocktail with Camellia
6:00 PM: Closing of the exhibition
The parallel program of the XIII Sintra Camellia Exhibition includes guided tours by experts to some of Sintra's emblematic historical gardens, essential references for understanding the introduction, acclimatization, and appreciation of camellias in Sintra's botanical heritage.
The Sintra Marmòris Palace will also be participating with the Wine & Cheese Gathering.
Sintra Marble Palace Dates: March 7, 14 and 21, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Price: €20 per person
Includes: “Wine & Cheese Gathering” - a selection of cheeses and cured meats to accompany red, white, sparkling wine or juice; also includes a fado performance with fado singer Rosa Borges, with Luciano Matos on the viola de fado and Tiago Morna on the Portuguese guitar.
Reservations: directly with the hotel, with a minimum of 48 hours' notice and subject to availability.
Contact: +351 211 146 189
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