The last weekend of the year delivered one of Portugal\u2019s most beloved running traditions: the S\u00e3o Silvestres.
Thousands of runners \u2014 from elite athletes to people who lace up only during the holiday season \u2014 filled the streets across the country to celebrate speed, resilience and the festive spirit that defines late December.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year, the atmosphere was even more electric: sold-out races, illuminated streets, cheering crowds and standout performances that marked the end of the 2025 running calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s a look back at what happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Portugal experienced a true running festival.
From North to South \u2014 and including the islands \u2014 the entire country seemed to move together, keeping alive a tradition that grows stronger and more meaningful every year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest highlights of the weekend were:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each race brought its own atmosphere, but all shared the same celebratory energy that makes these end-of-year runs so iconic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The S\u00e3o Silvestre do Porto delivered an exciting finish, with Mariana Machado<\/strong> taking the win in the women\u2019s race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The young Portuguese athlete continues to confirm her enormous potential, reinforcing her place as one of the most promising talents in national athletics. One name stood out above the rest this weekend: Nuno Pereira<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The athlete won two<\/strong> of the most iconic S\u00e3o Silvestre races in Portugal:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winning two highly competitive races, on consecutive days, in two different regions, is no small achievement. Year after year, S\u00e3o Silvestres are becoming more than just running events: they are cultural celebrations that unite communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This weekend reinforced that trend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n S\u00e3o Silvestres continue to be one of the most anticipated and joyful moments in Portugal\u2019s running calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If these races inspired you to tie your laces, you\u2019re not alone.
Her performance was strong, confident and beautifully executed \u2014 a well-deserved victory in one of the country’s most symbolic events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\ud83e\udd47 3. Nuno Pereira Dominates in Lisbon\u2026 and Funchal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
It shows exceptional form, consistency and competitive strength \u2014 one of the most impressive highlights of this year\u2019s S\u00e3o Silvestre season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\ud83d\udd25 4. The Growing Popularity of S\u00e3o Silvestre Races<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\ud83c\udfaf 5. What\u2019s Next? Start Planning Your First Race of 2026<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The beginning of the year brings dozens of events across Portugal \u2014 from 5 km races to trail runs and half marathons \u2014 perfect for starting 2026 with a clear goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n