Lisbon once again takes to the streets to celebrate its most authentic asset: its people. In June, the city is filled with colour, sounds and smells. The streets, courtyards and squares come alive with music, lights and decorations. On every corner, people dance on the cobblestones. The smell of grilled sardines mingles in the air with the scent of basil plants. It smells like the Festas de Lisboa!
With more than 40 events taking place across the city, the programme brings together tradition and modernity, including the Marchas Populares (People’s Parades), street parties, Saint Anthony’s Weddings, concerts, open-air cinema, exhibitions and activities for all ages, many of them free of charge.
The festivities begin in May with the Marchas Populares at MEO Arena and various street parties, and culminate on the night of 12 June, with the the parade down Avenida da Liberdade and Saint Anthony’s Weddings.
The programme also includes music at the Castelo de São Jorge, international cultural events and major shows in the gardens of the Torre de Belém, where the Festas will draw to an end on 26 June, with a concert by Matias Damásio and a fireworks display.
Carlos do Carmo sang of a “Lisboa, menina e moça”, to which we add a festive Lisbon that is ours, celebrated at the Festas de Lisboa. Together, they are the whole of Lisbon!
Boas Festas (Happy Festivities) from Lisbon!
