Santo António Festival in Lisbon: History, Parades & Street Parties
June 2, 2025
Colorful street decorations in Lisbon’s historic neighborhood during the Santo António Festival in June.
June in Lisbon is all about joy, music in the streets, the unmistakable aroma of grilled sardines drifting through the city's neighborhoods, and a festive spirit that unites locals, families, and tourists. It all happens in honor of Saint Anthony, the city’s patron saint and the central figure of the Lisbon Festivities (Festas de Lisboa). This annual celebration, deeply rooted in Lisbon’s culture, is filled with century-old traditions — from lively parades to collective weddings. In this article, discover the origins and highlights of this unforgettable celebration that brings color, rhythm, and emotion to Lisbon every June.
POPULAR SAINTS FESTIVALS IN PORTUGAL
In Portugal, the month of June celebrates three beloved Catholic saints: Saint Anthony (Lisbon), Saint John (Porto), and Saint Peter (Póvoa de Varzim, Sintra, and other cities). These saints are honored through lively street festivals filled with music, dancing, traditional food, and lots of merrymaking.
Lisbon is at the heart of the Saint Anthony Festival, which runs throughout June, peaking on the night of June 12th to 13th.
Lisbon’s Arraiais: Open-Air Street Parties
Throughout the month, Lisbon turns into one giant open-air party. In historic neighborhoods like Alfama, Mouraria, Graça, Bica, and Madragoa, the streets come alive with colorful streamers, basil pots, balloons, and lights. Makeshift stages are set up across the city, along with food stalls selling grilled sardines, bifanas (pork sandwiches), and caldo verde (kale soup). Popular music plays into the night, inviting everyone to dance in an atmosphere that blends local spontaneity with warm hospitality — making these celebrations truly unique.
The Marchas Populares: Colorful Parades with Heart
One of the most anticipated events of the Saint Anthony Festival is the Marchas Populares, a parade held on the night of June 12th along the iconic Avenida da Liberdade. Each freguesia (local district) prepares for months, designing choreographies, writing songs, crafting costumes, and perfecting their routines. The performances are judged by a jury, but more than a competition, the event is a dazzling celebration of community pride and Lisbon’s creative soul — drawing thousands of spectators every year.
Saint Anthony’s Weddings: A Tradition of Love and Solidarity
Another highlight is the Saint Anthony Weddings, held annually on June 12th. This collective wedding tradition began in 1958 and is intended for couples from Lisbon with financial difficulties, helping them fulfill their dream of getting married. Organized by Lisbon City Council, the event includes a religious or civil ceremony, a wedding lunch, and gifts offered by various partners. These weddings reflect the saint’s image as a “matchmaker” and symbolize the blend of faith, joy, and social support.
The Religious Side: Saint Anthony Procession
Despite its festive tone, the event maintains a strong religious component. On June 13th, a public holiday in Lisbon, the Saint Anthony Procession takes place. The procession begins at the Church of Saint Anthony, built on the site where the saint is believed to have been born, near the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé). Hundreds of devotees walk through the streets, singing and praying — a centuries-old display of faith that continues to this day.
WHO WAS SAINT ANTHONY? HISTORY & LEGACY
Saint Anthony of Lisbon
Saint Anthony was born in Lisbon around 1193 as Fernando de Bulhões. He began his religious life in Lisbon before moving to Coimbra, where he joined the Franciscan Order and took the name Anthony. His reputation as a gifted speaker and preacher led him to Italy, where he passed away near Padua on June 13, 1231. He was canonized less than a year later and is today one of the most venerated saints in the world.
Origins of the Festival
The Saint Anthony celebrations date back to the 13th century, blending religious elements with local folk traditions. Some researchers suggest that the Festas de Lisboa evolved from ancient pagan rituals related to the summer solstice and harvest season. Devotion to the saint grew especially after his relics arrived in Lisbon in the 15th century — sparking grand citywide festivities in his honor.
Living Traditions
The festival preserves age-old customs such as “tronos” — small altars dedicated to the saint, often made by children who ask for “a coin for Saint Anthony.” Other traditions include lighting bonfires, jumping over the flames, and offering basil pots with popular rhyming verses. While some practices (like the massive party once held at Praça da Figueira) have faded, many remain or have been reinvented — keeping a strong connection between Lisbon’s past and present.
Traditional dancers celebrating during the St. Anthony Festival on Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon, with colorful costumes and confetti.
LISBON’S FESTIVAL 2025: DATES, HIGHLIGHTS & NEIGHBORHOODS
The Santo António Festival in Lisbon 2025 promises a full calendar of events throughout June. Here are some of the key dates and venues:
Key Dates:
• June 12: Marchas Populares Parade, Street Parties in Historic Neighborhoods, Saint Anthony Weddings
• June 13: Saint Anthony Procession
Featured Arraiais (Street Parties) in 2025:
• Arraial de Santos em Santos (Estrela) – May 16 to June 15, at Terrapleno de Santos. Highlights include concerts by Toy (June 3) and Rosinha (June 9).
• Arraial de Santo António (Santo António) – May 28 to June 18, at Praça da Alegria. Don’t miss the Fado night on June 10.
• Alfama’s Popular Arraial (Santa Maria Maior) – May 30 to June 28, at Largo de São Miguel. A true traditional arraial every day.
• Arraial da Bica (Misericórdia) – May 30 to June 29, at Largo de Santo Antoninho. Like Alfama, this is a great spot on any day.
• Arraial da Misericórdia (Misericórdia) – May 30 to June 29, at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Highlights: Canário (June 7), Mónica Sintra (June 8), Diego Miranda (June 12), Toy (June 13), Zé Amaro (June 18), Rosinha (June 20), and Herman José (June 21).
• Local Arraial (Mouraria) – May 29 to June 21, at Largo da Rosa. Highlights: Telefunia (June 12) and Freddy Locks (June 14).
• Arraial dos Navegantes (Parque das Nações) – June 6 to 8, near Igreja da Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes. Notable for its eco-conscious theme and the children’s “Arraialito”.
• Santos à Campolide Arraial (Campolide) – June 2 to 17, at Parque Urbano Quinta do Zé Pinto. Highlights: Quim Barreiros (June 6), Jorge Guerreiro (June 7), Non Stop (June 9), Ruth Marlene (June 12), Chave D’Ouro (June 13), and Toy (June 14).
• Arraial de São Vicente (Graça) – June 5 to 14, at Largo da Graça. Highlights: Trio Maravilha (June 10) and Toy (June 11).
• Vila Berta Arraial – May 31 to June 12, at Vila Berta. Highlights: Children’s Arraial (June 1 and 8), Fado Vadio (June 10), and Toy Cascão (June 12).
• Grande Arraial das Avenidas Novas – May 30 to June 15, at Jardins do Campo Pequeno. Highlights: Toy (June 3), Original Bandalheira (June 5), Quim das Remisturas (June 7), DJ Overule (June 9), Miguel Azevedo (June 11), Avô Cantigas (June 13).
• Arraial Clube Atlético de Arroios – June 6 to 12, at Rua de Arroios. A great meeting point on your way to other arraiais.
• Arraial in Alvalade – June 12 to 14, at the Municipal Sports Complex São João de Brito. Highlights: Toy (June 12), José Cid (June 13), Herman José (June 14).
• Grande Arraial de Benfica – June 20 to 23, at Alameda Padre Álvaro Proença. Highlights: Diogo Piçarra (June 20), Bárbara Bandeira (June 21), Gipsy Kings by Diego Baliardo (June 22), Quim Barreiros and GNR (June 23).
If you plan to visit Lisbon in June, don't miss the Festas de Santo António — one of the city’s most authentic cultural experiences. There are many ways to celebrate like a true Lisboeta: music, dancing, basil, and of course… grilled sardines on bread!
Grilled sardines being prepared over charcoal during Lisbon’s street parties in celebration of St. Anthony.
FAQs
Who was Saint Anthony?
Anthony of Padua was a Portuguese Franciscan friar born in Lisbon. He was known for his powerful sermons and miracles and is celebrated worldwide as a symbol of wisdom and compassion.
What is the origin of the Santo António Festival?
It originated as a mix of religious devotion and local traditions linked to the summer solstice. Over time, it became Lisbon’s largest and most beloved festival.
Why is Saint Anthony linked to weddings?
Tradition says he helped poor couples marry, which earned him the title of “matchmaker saint.” Lisbon’s collective weddings continue this legacy.
What’s the meaning behind the basil plant?
Basil (manjerico) is gifted as a symbol of love and affection. It usually comes with a poetic verse and should be smelled indirectly — pass your hand over it first, or it’s said the plant will die!
How long does the festival last?
The festival spans the entire month of June, peaking between the 12th and 13th. However, concerts and events stretch over several weeks.
Experience the Festas Like a Local
Want to live the Santo António Festival like a true local? Join our cultural and food tours in Lisbon, led by passionate local guides who love sharing the city’s rich traditions. If you’re looking for high-quality, sustainable travel experiences, explore the best tours in Lisbon here: