Colours of Lisbon: festas de Lisboa

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, a month of celebration

The Festas de Lisboa mark the beginning of a series of street parties and parades that last throughout the month of June and open the doors to the city's summer festivals.

The quiet, historic neighborhoods of the capital shake off their sleepy façade to embrace an energetic and lively atmosphere, with live music, dancing, and parties that go on until the early hours of the morning. The festivities peak on the eve of Saint Anthony's Day, celebrated on June 13th.

Every corner of the city comes alive with colorful decorations and celebrations that spread through the streets, but the best parties can be found in Alfama and Mouraria – the Marchas Populares parade along Avenida da Liberdade is one of the highlights of the Festas de Lisboa.

On Saint Anthony's Day itself, many roads are closed, and the city fills with the aroma of grilled sardines – traditionally eaten at this time of year as part of the festivities – and the sound of Fado music can be heard everywhere.

Lisbon's patron saint also blesses marriages, and many hopeful young people take the opportunity to ask for a 'miracle' – a practice that seems to work, given the mass weddings (called 'Casamentos de Santo António') that take place after the celebrations.

Make sure to offer a manjerico to your loved one, the traditional plant of the Festas de Lisboa. It is sold in a pot and usually comes with a paper carnation and a flag with a small verse about love. Tip: Legend says the manjerico should not be smelled directly. Gently pass your hand over the plant and then smell your hand to catch its fragrance.