If you're spending autumn in the Algarve and want to do some good while you're there, the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) has a full calendar of events, pop-ups and charity shops to get behind.

The charity made a confident return at the Afpop Expo 2026, held this year on October 3 and 4, with a refreshed stand in the 'Community Algarve' area and new stock including glass-cases, pens and tote-bags, all also available in its shops. The date change meant the expo clashed with the charity's World Animal Day lunch, which was pushed back but still drew a good crowd.

One expo visitor became an instant donor of note: after picking up one of APAA's giveaway pens, he asked the price and, told it was free, handed over €60 anyway. Funds raised this season largely feed the charity's spaying and neutering programme (SNiP), which keeps feral cat populations in check, plus rehoming work for abandoned animals.

There's been good news on the rehoming front too. Mickey, a black cat — a colour that struggles to find homes in Portugal — has been taken in at the Gatil cattery in Portimão and now lives with Porsche, a notably patient German Shepherd. APAA was also reinstated for annual grant funding from an animal charity after an earlier slip-up: some grant money had gone on cat food for colonies when the rules only allowed dog food. The cats will be fed from other funds going forward.

The charity's shops are worth a browse even if you're just visiting. The relaunched Dunas de Alvor shop opens Monday to Saturday, 10.30am to 2pm, and there's another on Rua Elias Garcia 20 in Silves, Monday to Friday 10am-2pm (Saturday until 1pm). Expect handmade jewellery, ornaments, chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies — and, according to the team, an early start on Christmas shopping.

Key dates for the diary: a chicken piri-piri pop-up with O Tasco on Monday, October 26 in Senhora do Verde near Portimão, always popular with locals; the Ferragudo Fair Boot Sale on the main road on Sunday, November 11 (every second Sunday, weather permitting, no preserves or cookies); and the joint APAA Christmas Charity Ball and Dinner with the Silves Rotary Club on Friday, December 11 — places bookable by email.

Whether you're an expat, a snowbird or just passing through, showing up at one of these events is an easy way to meet the community, eat well and support animal welfare in the region at the same time.