Celebrate Festivities of Lisbon on June 12-13

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is one of the most enchanting and vibrant cities in Europe. The rich culture, history, and traditions of this city are best experienced during the Festas de Lisboa, held every year on June 12th and 13th. This two-day celebration is a testament to the lively spirit of the Lisboetas (people of Lisbon) and is an unmissable event for tourists and locals alike. From colorful parades to lively street parties, let’s dive into the festivities of Lisbon and discover why it’s a must-visit destination during June.

Festas de Lisboa dates back to the 19th century when Lisbon was known as “Felizbela” which means “happy and beautiful” in Portuguese.

The main highlight of the festivities is the Santo António parade, which pays homage to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Lisbon.

The parade is a grand display of traditional costumes and stunning floats that move along the city streets.

It’s a colorful and lively spectacle that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Apart from the parade, visitors can also enjoy live music, street performances, and delicious street food during the festivities.

One of the most beloved traditions of the Festas de Lisboa is the “arraiais”, which are open-air street parties held in different neighborhoods of the city.

These parties go on till the early hours of the morning and are a great way to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly locals.

Another popular event during the festivities is the “casamentos de santo” or “wedding of Saint Anthony” where couples renew their vows and celebrate love and marriage.

One of the key themes of the Festas de Lisboa is the celebration of life, love, and community.

The festivities also include cultural and arts events such as exhibitions, theater performances, and traditional dances.

Food lovers will also be delighted with the abundance of grilled sardines, traditional pastries, and local wines available during the celebrations.

Visitors can also take part in the popular “marchas populares”, where different neighborhoods compete through dance and music to win the title of best “marcha”.

Joining the festivities is a great way to get to know the diverse neighborhoods of Lisbon and their unique traditions.

Apart from the traditional events, there are also modern festivities like concerts and DJ sets to cater to the younger crowd.

The Festas de Lisboa is a family-friendly event and children can enjoy activities like face painting, games, and workshops.

The celebrations end on June 13th, which is also the Feast of Saint Anthony.

During this day, people gather in large groups for a final celebration and to watch the fireworks over the city.

The entire city is adorned with colorful decorations, and the energy and joy of the festivities can be felt all around.

Festas de Lisboa is not just a celebration, it’s a way of life for the people of Lisbon.

It’s an expression of their love for their city, culture, and traditions.

The energy, liveliness, and inclusivity of this event make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

For those planning to visit Lisbon during June, make sure to mark the dates of Festas de Lisboa on your calendar.

It’s a perfect opportunity to dive into the vibrant and charming spirit of this beautiful city.

Join the locals in celebrating their love for life, and experience the best of Lisbon during the Festas de Lisboa.

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