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If you are looking for a different experience for Christmas and New Year then Lagos in the Algarve is the perfect destination to experience traditional Portuguese culture. Unlike other tourist resorts, Lagos is a traditional working Portuguese town and never 'closes down' as such. Here are seven reasons why you should visit Lagos at Christmas. Christmas lights - The old historic town and ancient castle walls are illuminated with festive Christmas lights and nativity scenes. It's a wonderful experience to walk around the cobbled streets and explore the decorations.

Weather - Christmas is the perfect opportunity to escape the cold UK winter and escape to the sun. There is every likelihood that you will get some glorious sunshine in the Algarve, but don't expect sunbathing temperatures (15C is average). You can usually stroll around in short sleeves although in the evenings you will need a fleece or jacket as it gets cold when the sun goes down.

Fireworks - At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, the Algarve's coastline is illuminated with firework displays. None are as spectacular as the fireworks down by the Lagos waterfront, but take an umbrella as it's a tradition to spray champagne during the celebrations.

Food - Indulge in gastronomic delights. Lagos is home to some of the finest restaurants in the Algarve from international cuisine to traditional Portuguese restaurants where you dine with the Locals.

Golf -The Algarve in December is a great time to enjoy a few rounds of golf at one of the many championship courses at a time when golf courses in the UK are waterlogged and unplayable.

Shopping - Algarve shopping has more than a hundred shops and Portimao has several retail parks should you wish to indulge in some retail therapy.

Walks - Although strolling along the golden sandy beaches in Lagos is a great way to relax, there is some breathtaking scenery inland away from the coast. Take a refreshing drive to the spectacular Monchique mountains and explore the surrounding green countryside. The mountains offer breathtaking views, where on a clear day you can see from one end of the Algarve coastline to the other.

Lagos is the perfect destination to experience Christmas and New Year "Boas Festas"!

source: http://ezinearticles.com

New year eve events around the Algarve:

Quarteira
31st December
Enter the new year in full and enjoy the beach in Quarteira with a fantastic years end programme. The queen of this year is the Portuguese music that will delight kids and adults alike with concerts by José Cid and Orquestrada.

When the clock strikes twelve enjoy the fabulous special show of fireworks with the sea as the stage.

Portimão
31st December
From 22.00

Portimão says goodbye to 2009 with an innovative show, inspired by the natural circuit of water, earth, air and fire - and grounded in the use of many resources such as scenic dance, music, pyrotechnics and interaction with the public.
00H00-00H15-FIRE fireworksRiverside Area of Portimão; Alvor WaterfrontPraia da Rocha Starting at
00.20 - Musical entertainmentBrazilian music with Edna Pepper Alvor WaterfrontStarting at
00.20 - Cuban Music

Albufeira

Albufeira always throws a good party and this year is no exception. Prepare yourself for several days of fun, music, dance and fireworks!