Portugal Day: 10th of June

Celebrating Portuguese Identity

The arrival of June brings with it several important events and celebrations. One of these celebrations is the 10th of June, which marks the celebration of an essential date that unites everyone and everything: the Day of Portugal, Luís de Camões, and the Portuguese Communities.

Let's begin by delving deeper into the significance of this holiday and understanding the life of Luís Vaz de Camões and his renowned work, "Os Lusíadas", which has become a national symbol.

The Legacy of Luís de Camões

Camões is regarded as the greatest figure in Portuguese literature. He was born in the first half of the 16th century, around 1524, and passed away on June 10th, 1579, or 1580. Although much of his life is shrouded in mystery, it is known that he spent most of his time in Lisbon and learned Latin in Coimbra. He was also a member of the court and worked as a lyric poet, but his careless lifestyle led him to self-exile in Africa. As a soldier in the Portuguese army, he lost his right eye, which forced him to return to Portugal. However, he traveled again, this time to the Orient, towards India, where he wrote "Os Lusíadas", a work he almost lost at sea. This epic poem encompasses three dimensions: the council of the gods, remembrance of the historical past, and the voyages of the navigators. It incorporates various themes, including the significance of both emotional and rational values and the greatness of those who fight and conquer.

From Estado Novo to the Republic: The Meaning of June 10

The 10th of June was also a landmark day in Portugal during the New State (in Portuguese, Estado Novo) regime led by António de Oliveira Salazar. It was celebrated and widely covered by the media. Until April 25, 1974, this day was known as the Day of Camões, or "Race Day: the Portuguese race or the Portuguese." The latter title was created by Salazar in 1944 when the Jamor National Stadium was inaugurated. In 1963, June 10th became a tribute to the Portuguese Armed Forces and was used to glorify the war and colonial power.

In 1978, the Third Republic changed the meaning of the day to the Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities, with a different philosophy. Nowadays, we seek to celebrate the proximity, unity, and cooperation between Portugal and all the Portuguese communities around the world.

2025 Celebrations in Lagos

In 2025, Lagos will host the official celebrations of Portugal Day, chosen by the President of the Republic. This honor acknowledges the city's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.

Organized by a national commission led by writer Lídia Jorge, in collaboration with the Portuguese Armed Forces, the Presidency of the Republic, and with the support of the Municipality of Lagos, the celebrations promise to be spectacular and inclusive.

Events on June 10, 2025:

11h00

Military Ceremony at Avenida dos Descobrimentos

15h00
Naval Parade at Meia Praia, Avenida dos Descobrimentos

18h00

Flag Lowering Ceremony at Praça Infante D. Henrique

18h30
Closing Concert by Orquestra do Algarve at Praça Infante D. Henrique

👉 For the full official program, visit the Lagos Municipality website.

Practical Information

Due to the preparations and public nature of the events, traffic and parking restrictions will apply in various areas of Lagos. The Municipality will share updates through official channels. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport and plan ahead.

FAQs About Portugal Day

Why is Portugal Day celebrated on June 10?
It marks the death of Luís de Camões and symbolizes the national identity, history, and global unity of Portuguese communities.

Who was Luís de Camões?
He was Portugal’s greatest poet, author of Os Lusíadas, and a symbol of Portuguese literature and heroism.

What is Os Lusíadas about?
The epic narrates the journeys of Vasco da Gama and celebrates Portuguese exploration and values.

Is Portugal Day a public holiday?
Yes, June 10 is a national public holiday across Portugal.

Where will the official 2025 celebrations take place?
In Lagos, with parades, concerts, military ceremonies, and fireworks.

Join the celebration in Lagos and honor Portuguese heritage, history, and identity on Portugal Day 2025.