EconomyTourism

These days, in-between the hustle and bustle of Christmas buying, take time to attend fantastic and unusual film screenings in the most unexpected venues all over Porto. The film cycle themed 'Salão Piolho' runs from 12 to 15 December, and you need not bother about price tickets, as attendance is free and only subject to room capacity.

This ark is so much more than the usual tit-for-tat giving at Christmas. When purchasing from this establishments, you are giving money to good causes. Each gift was manufactured by people that actually belong to or attend the institutions represented.

Forget about the present grabbing emphasis that can be overwhelming this time of year and give yourself and your loved ones the chance of a traditional experience: head to "Jardim da Água", which translates as "The Garden of Water", located in the Street of Barão de Nova Sintra.

Porto offers the most amazing events on Xmas Holidays; on 7th and 8th December, there will be another two "special concerts" on the balcony of the Clérigos Tower and by the doorsteps of the Santo Ildefonso Church, respectively. Concerts are always at 4pm. Access is free.

The Cais Novo, nearby Porto Customs hosts the Veggie Christmas Market, on 13, 14 and 15 December. Entrance is free. This event is organised by VeggieFest and Lufthansa LGSP. On the table, expect to find "alheira" or smoked sausage, salted snacks and vegan doughnuts, harmonized with sparkling wines.

Saturday is a not to miss day at the Bolhão Temporary Market as Chef António Fernandes, of the Porto Royal Bridges, will give plenty of cues to cooking the tastiest foods for Christmas, on 7 December, at 11 am.

This is the first edition of the "Jardim da Água" event, aimed at bringing together the community and the Parque de Nova Sintra, on 7th December. Be there from 10am till 5pm. And guess who will be there to greet you?

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a visit to the traditional markets and they are in town until 23rd December. Tick off your Christmas shopping list at Porto's Xmas markets and festive fairs, and find unique gifts, such as joyful crafts, handmade gifts, and original art pieces.

Still time to appreciate one of the most iconic exhibits with the National Geographic seal of quality, as the exhibit that features 50 images by Brian Skerry is on display at the Biodiversity Gallery, in Porto till December ends.

Take time to visit this unique photographic account of the oil terminal in Leixões, which has disembarked more than 155 million tons of liquid bulk and mooring services of 9 thousand seagoing ships. It is on show till 31st December.