Festas de Santo António (Festivals of St Antonio) celebrate the anniversary of the death of Lisbon’s patron saint, “St Antonio” (13 June).
The festival reaches its climax on the night of 12 June, the eve of the death anniversary, when the entire city of Lisbon is transformed into a huge party venue. The festival is also the highlight of a larger framework, the Festas de Lisboa (Lisbon Festival), which creates a festive mood throughout the city during June.
A traditional folk march down Calle Liberdade marks the culmination of the Lisbon Festival. There will also be St Antonio’s Day weddings and festivities in 16 locations throughout the night in various districts of the city.
Weddings are held in Lisbon Cathedral, including live TV coverage, where beautiful dresses and gentlemen’s suits can be seen.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Who is St Antonio?
Born in Lisbon, he is popular throughout the world as a saint of “matchmaking”, “marriage” and “finding lost things”. As a result, many of the festivals also have customs related to love and marriage.
Charcoal-grilled sardines (Sardinhas Assadas)
The symbol of the St Antonio’s Festival is sardines grilled over charcoal. During the festival, the fragrant smoke from roasting sardines rises from the alleys of the old town, mainly in the Alfama district. During the festival, the fragrant smoke from roasting sardines rises from the alleys of the old town, mainly in the Alfama district.
- How to eat: sardines are freshly grilled and served on bread, which is then eaten with the hands in a hearty, local style.
- Atmosphere: Sardines on the roadside with a beer or sangria in hand is one of the best parts of the festival. The streets are filled with appetising aromas and people’s enthusiasm.
2. Marchas Populares
This grand parade is the main event of the festival, which takes place on the evening of 12 June. Each neighbourhood (bairro) in Lisbon forms a team and parades through the city in gorgeous costumes, original songs and matching choreography, competing to be the champion of the year.
- Where: takes place on Avenida Liberdade, Lisbon’s main street.
- Highlights: spectacular pride performances by the neighbourhoods. The glittering costumes and energetic dances are like those of the Rio Carnival.
Summary
Visit the Alfama neighbourhood on the evening of 13 June.
Theres dancing in many places, blasting music, the smell of sardines and youll experience the height of Lisbon`s festivities.
Its very crowded and youll have to walk as fast as you can, so keep your spirits up!
