The festival thrilled attendees with diverse activities, including the debut of the FC Porto booth, a varied food court, and lively performances. With over 30 artists like Take That and Snow Patrol, the event reached its 40,000-person capacity on the second and third days.

This past weekend, the Marés Vivas festival once again thrilled attendees with a wide range of activities and attractions. We covered the festival's final day, and the diversity of options available to festival-goers was particularly noticeable. Among various shops, challenges, and brands, the FC Porto booth made its debut and drew a significant crowd of fans.

The festival grounds featured an extensive food court, two smaller stages - one dedicated to comedy - and a lively samba wheel.

The attention was split, of course, between the secondary stage and the main stage (primarly), where our team covered the performances on the third day.

António Zambujo

António Zambujo, a leading figure in modern Portuguese music, opened the day on the main stage with a calm and intimate performance. Known for his evocative songwriting, Zambujo's music blends traditional fado with contemporary influences, creating a unique and intimate sound that resonates with the fans.

Born in Beja in 1975, Zambujo has carved a significant place for himself in the Portuguese music scene. His career took off with the release of his debut album "O Mesmo Fado" in 2002, and he has since released several acclaimed albums, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way. His ability to infuse fado with elements of jazz, bossa nova, and other genres has garnered him a dedicated following in Portugal.

During his set at Marés Vivas, Zambujo’s performance was marked by a serene and introspective atmosphere, correclty connected to the simplicity of his presentation, focused on specific instruments that the reader can spot below.

Ornatos Violeta

The legendary band from Porto, Ornatos Violeta, a defining force of their musical era, was once again in the spotlight, commemorating the 25th anniversary of their iconic album "O monstro precisa de amigos".

Formed in 1991, Ornatos Violeta quickly became a benchmark in the Portuguese music scene, with a unique sound blending funk, jazz, and ska. After a hiatus that began in 2002, the band made a comeback in 2012, selling out seven shows in Lisbon, Porto, and Micaelense, and continued to make special appearances at major festivals.

Their presence reflects the festival’s long philosophy of supporting talent and Portuguese music. Ornatos Violeta’s set was not just a milestone in the band’s history but also a testament to their enduring legacy. Their music continues to inspire and move audiences, both long-standing fans and new generations discovering their unparalleled sound.

Some of the feedback after show was placing this set as the best of the day. One may disagree, but, for locals, it is not far from the truth.

Louis Tomlinson

Louis Tomlinson was immediately greeted by a packed crowd of young teenagers who had eagerly awaited his performance. The atmosphere was electric as fans, many of whom dreamt of meeting the former One Direction star, screamed along to every song.

The Brithish singer, known for his charismatic stage presence and heartfelt lyrics, provided an exhilarating moment for his devoted fans. From the moment he stepped on stage, the energy was palpable, with the crowd enthusiastically singing along to a mix of his solo hits and One Direction classics. However, for the discerning listener, Tomlinson's pitch occasionally fell short of expectations.

Tomlinson shot to fame as a member of One Direction, one of the most successful boy bands in history. Since embarking on his solo career, he has continued to captivate audiences with his distinct voice and relatable songwriting. His debut solo album, "Walls," released in 2020, showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his place in the music industry.

At Marés Vivas, Tomlinson’s performance was a highlight, reflecting the festival's appeal to diverse audiences. His connection with the crowd was evident as he interacted with fans, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. The sea of waving hands and glowing phone screens created a intense backdrop, turning the concert into an unforgettable experience for hard fans.

Snow Patrol

Snow Patrol took the stage late on Sunday, keeping the dedicated audience members who had stayed until the very end. Despite the late hour, the band's performance was a fitting finale to the festival, rewarding the patience and enthusiasm of the crowd with their signature anthemic rock sound.

The Northern Irish-Scottish band, known for hits like "Heal Me" and "Run," delivered a set that was both powerful and emotional. Gary Lightbody’s heartfelt vocals, combined with the band's rich instrumental arrangements, created a captivating atmosphere. Each song resonated deeply with the audience, who sang along passionately, making for a memorable closing act.

Their performance not only highlighted their enduring appeal but also left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it, bringing the festival to a triumphant close which, after the well awaited "Chasing Cars", had space for two last encore songs - "What If This Is All the Love You Ever Get" and "Just Say Yes".

Overall

Over the course of three days, the Marés Vivas festival hosted more than 30 national and international artists across its five stages. The 2024 lineup included big names such as Take That, D'ZRT, James Arthur, Ben Harper, António Zambujo, Marisa Liz, Ornatos Violeta, DAMA, Syro, Rag'N'Bone Man, Louis Tomlinson, and Snow Patrol.

The director of PEV Entertainment revealed that the second and third days reached the maximum capacity of 40,000 people at the former Madalena Campsite. The 2025 edition is scheduled to July 18, 19 & 20.