Two internationally recognised TEDx events are set to take place in Portugal this month, further strengthening the country’s reputation as a destination for world-class conferences and cultural discussions — with one event even featuring a famous 1990s chart star.
The TEDx programmes in Lagos and Lisbon will bring together experts, entrepreneurs, academics and creatives to explore themes ranging from transformation and innovation to human connection and social change.
On May 16, TEDxPraça Gil Eanes will take place at the Lagos Cultural Centre under the theme Metamorphosis: The Beauty of Change.
The event will explore how periods of uncertainty and disruption often lead to progress across areas such as science, technology, culture and society.
Organisers add: “At TEDxPraça Gil Eanes 2026, we explore serious forms of change, past, present, and future, through research, evidence, lived experience, and new perspectives on how transformation really happens.”
Speakers from sectors including science, leadership, branding, marketing and the creative arts are expected to contribute to the discussions throughout the day.
Meanwhile, Lisbon’s TEDxMarvila returns on May 24 at Pátio da Galé, one of the city’s most prestigious historic venues.
This year’s theme, What is Love?, will examine the broader meaning of love and connection beyond romantic relationships, focusing on the role they play in society and human wellbeing.
As the organisers explain: “From neuroscience to philosophy, we’re beginning to understand love not as something abstract, but as something deeply structural. A biological need for connection. A social glue that holds societies together. A driver of empathy, cooperation, and resilience in times of change.”
Among those taking part is Haddaway, whose 1993 global hit What is Love? became one of the decade’s most recognisable songs.
He will join a line-up that also includes investors, CEOs, entrepreneurs, academics and marketing specialists for a series of talks and panel discussions.
The TEDx events are the latest additions to Portugal’s increasingly impressive international events schedule.
Later this year, Lisbon will host Web Summit 2026, attracting thousands of delegates and leading names from the global technology sector.
At the same time, excitement is continuing to build around the expected return of Formula 1 to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve — widely known as the Portimão Circuit — next year.
Explains Paul Stannard, founder and chairman of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club: “The TEDx events are always vibrant, engaging events and these in Lisbon and Lagos promise some thought-provoking discussion and excellent networking opportunities.
“Every year, we see Portugal adding more international-quality events to its calendar. It demonstrates the calibre of the audience they attract.
“Whether it’s discussions on how to develop our cities or communities or the sheer excitement of F1, Portugal is proving, yet again, to be the place to be.”
