The 42nd edition of Ovibeja will take place from 29 April to 3 May in Beja, southern Portugal, with wine as its central theme and a cultural programme featuring leading Portuguese artists
The 42nd edition of Ovibeja will be held between 29 April and 3 May 2026 at the Beja Fair and Exhibition Park, in southern Portugal. This year’s event places the wine sector at the heart of its thematic focus, reflecting the current challenges faced by producers at both national and European levels.
In exclusive statements to Alentrium.pt, Rui Garrido, President of ACOS – Associação de Agricultores do Sul and Chair of the Ovibeja Organising Committee, explained that the choice of theme is closely linked to the recognition of the Baixo Alentejo as European Wine Capital.
“Wine is a sector going through significant difficulties, not only in Portugal but across Europe. Taking into account the designation of Baixo Alentejo as European Wine Capital, we decided to bring this discussion into Ovibeja and make it the central theme of this edition,” he said.
According to Rui Garrido, the organisation is working in close cooperation with sectoral bodies, including the Comissão Vitivinícola Regional Alentejana, producers’ associations and regional entities, with the aim of promoting informed debate, knowledge exchange and visibility for the wine industry during the fair.
“We are developing this programme together with the CVRA and other organisations linked to the wine sector so that Ovibeja can host a strong and meaningful debate around wine,” he added.
Cultural programme revealed in advance
Alongside its agricultural and economic dimension, Ovibeja once again reinforces its cultural programme. The 2026 music line-up has already been confirmed and includes Nininho Vaz Maia, Mariza, Átoa and Os Vizinhos, alongside several DJ performances throughout the event. A high-profile DJ is also expected to perform on the Saturday night.
“The concert programme is already closed. We will welcome Nininho Vaz Maia, Mariza, Átoa and Os Vizinhos, in addition to DJs across several days,” Rui Garrido confirmed.
Trás-os-Montes as guest region and international presence
This year, Trás-os-Montes has been chosen as the guest region, bringing its cultural heritage to Beja, including performances by the Pauliteiros de Miranda. Ovibeja will also feature an official Brazilian delegation, with a dedicated stand, reinforcing the event’s international dimension.
On the exhibition side, the organisation plans to further strengthen the Innovation and Technology Pavilion, while enhancing the connection with the Flavours Pavilion, where olive oils and wines are expected to gain increased prominence.
“We want to reinforce the innovation and technology area and, in close articulation with the Flavours Pavilion, give greater visibility to olive oils and wines,” the ACOS president noted.
Bringing together agriculture, innovation, culture and public debate, Ovibeja continues to position itself as one of southern Europe’s most significant agricultural fairs, serving as a meeting point for producers, institutions, companies and the wider public.
