Gliding Barnacles returns to Portugal with the support of Vans for its largest edition ever, for a week of surf, art and music from 18th to 22nd of September 2024.
Figueira da Foz is preparing to host the largest edition ever of Gliding Barnacles, the festival that transforms the Portuguese coast into a global epicenter of creativity. From September 18 to 22, 2024, this unique event promises to gather over ten thousand people in an unprecedented celebration of surfing as artistic expression.
11th edition is bound to be the biggest and best one so far
Since its debut in 2014, Gliding Barnacles has transformed into an international phenomenon, attracting thousands of visitors from 32 countries. Eurico Gonçalves, founder of the event and president of the Development Association + Surf, states: "We are better and bigger than ever," promising an ambitious and innovative program for the 11th edition.
Surfing as a form of art
Gliding Barnacles redefines surfing, presenting it not as a competition, but as a form of creative expression. This is a unique format worldwide. In this logic, competition is replaced by expression sessions. In this edition, renowned surfers such as Eurico Romaguera, Clovis Donizetti, Karina Rozunko, and Ambre Victoire will freely present their style, creativity, and innovation.
A celebration of cultural diversity
This year's program includes nearly 40 live concerts, mixing emerging bands with familiar names like Subway Riders, 800 Gondomar, Da Chick, and Manteau. An open-to-the-public artistic residency will host interventions in various formats, from mural painting and screen printing to sculpture and weaving, with artists such as Sofia Cruz (Krus) Lourenço Borges de Sousa, Paul McNeill, and Tanya Fryer.
This year's major novelty is the extension of the artistic residency to gastronomy, curated by Paulo Amado, founder of Edições do Gosto. Several chefs will showcase their culinary creations, including Joana Duarte from Rota das Algas, Miguel Menezes from Douro Palace Hotel, João Bívar from Shun Open Kitchen, Filipe Camacho from Petiscaria Âncora, and João Sá from Sála de João Sá, who has a Michelin star.
More than a festival
Gliding Barnacles goes beyond the concept of a festival, positioning itself as a catalyst for cultural change. Beatriz Fonseca, responsible for the organization, emphasizes that "Gliding Barnacles is more than a festival; it's a cultural movement that brings together the local community and visitors from around the world."
Access to surf sessions and daytime concerts at Cabedelo Beach is free. For artistic interventions and nighttime concerts, it's necessary to reserve a spot through the event's website.
Gliding Barnacles is supported by the Figueira da Foz City Council, Turismo de Portugal, and Vans.
