The Festas de Lisboas (or arraiais as they are locally known) last the whole month of June. They are the biggest and best street party Lisbon has to offer and peaks on the eve of the 12th and 13th of June. This is an amazing time to experience the best of Lisbon and its culture, and to immerse oneself in the lively atmosphere of the city. Visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese food and drink, listen to live music, and take in the beautiful sights of the city making it a truly unique and memorable experience.
One of the most anticipated events is on June 12th is the parade that takes place in the evening on Avenida da Liberdade. The parade features a variety of floats, each representing a different neighborhood or organization in Lisbon. The floats are decorated with colorful lights and banners, and they are accompanied by traditional Portuguese music and dancing. The parade is a lively and vibrant event that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. More info can be found here.
Following a short night, June 13th is a special holiday in Lisbon, as it marks the feast day of the city's patron saint, Santo Antonio, or Saint Anthony. The day is celebrated with a variety of traditional and modern events that showcase the best of Lisbon and its culture, including parades, religious processions, concerts, and fireworks.
Santo Antonio's misson was to find good husbands for young woman. In 1958 Lisbon's town hall decided to celebrate 26 weddings for couple with limited means. This tradition stopped in 1974 with the Revolution and resumed in 2004. Each year 16 couples are selected to get married on June 13. With pomp and circumstance these marriages take place in our main cathedral, Se. They attract huge attention on TV and locally.
Another popular tradition on June 13th is the "romarias," which are religious processions that take place throughout the city. The romarias are a way for locals to show their devotion to Saint Anthony and to ask for his blessings. The processions typically include a statue of the saint, accompanied by people dressed in traditional clothing and carrying flowers and candles. The romarias are a beautiful sight, and it is common for locals to join in and walk alongside the procession. One of these will pass by our LDApartments Alfama apartment and you can watch it live from the 1st floor Pombaline balconies :)
In the afternoon, the city's main square, Praça do Comércio, hosts a concert featuring traditional and contemporary Portuguese music. The concert is free and open to the public, and it is a great opportunity to experience the rich musical heritage of Portugal.
The evening of June 13th is also marked by a spectacular fireworks display, which is another highlight of the celebration. The fireworks are launched from the riverfront and can be seen from many parts of the city. The display is accompanied by traditional Portuguese music, making it an unforgettable event.
In addition to the traditional events, there are also a number of cultural activities that take place on June 13th. Museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions in Lisbon host special exhibitions, performances, and other events that highlight the city's rich history and culture.
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