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Festas Dos Santos Populares, or the Festivals of the Popular Saints, is a cherished tradition in Lisbon, paying homage to three revered saints: Santo António, São João, and São Pedro. These festivities, deeply rooted in Portuguese culture, bring communities together in a jubilant celebration of life, love, and shared heritage. Join us as we embark on a journey through the heart of Lisbon's most vibrant festival, where every corner resonates with the spirit of joy and camaraderie. In this article you will learn about details of the festivities, Lisbon's sardine festival, when the festivals start, how to navigate the festivals, tips for surviving the month, the mass wedding festival in Lisbon's cathedral ( Santo Antonio Festival), what to eat, where to find best festivities.
What to Expect on June 12th?
June 12 in Lisbon is a night of lively festivities and vibrant celebrations. The fun begins after sunset, with the Marchas Populares parade along Avenida da Liberdade around 9pm. After taking in the parade, head to one of the bustling party neighborhoods for a night filled with laughter, dancing, and merriment.
However, be prepared for large crowds, especially in popular areas like Alfama. The streets can become incredibly congested, making it challenging to navigate. Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere can arrive early to enjoy sardine feasts and listen to traditional pimba music. Arriving early may even secure you a seat amidst the festivities.
As the night progresses, the celebrations continue until dawn, making it Lisbon's longest night of the year. Taxis can be scarce, so it's advisable to walk home if possible. And with the following day being a public holiday, there's no rush to end the festivities early. So, embrace the chaos, immerse yourself in the festivities, and experience the magic of June 12 in Lisbon!
Lisbon Sardine Festival
Lisbon's Sardine Festival offers a variety of exciting events to explore. One highlight is the Desfile de Marchas Populares, a captivating parade that takes place on the night of June 12 along Avenida da Liberdade, showcasing floats, elaborate costumes, dancers, and live bands. This spirited procession is a lively competition among Lisbon's neighborhoods, each vying for top honors.
Another unique event during the festival is the Mass Wedding, also known as Santo Casamenteiro. Originating in 1958 when the Diário Popular newspaper sponsored marriages for couples facing financial difficulties, this tradition continues today. On June 12th, Lisbon council selects 16 couples to wed, providing them with rings, wedding attire, and even a honeymoon—all televised for viewers to enjoy.
Lisbon's Cathedral Where the Wedding Takes Place
As for accommodations during the Sardine Festival:
Consider the bustling neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, Madragoa, Santos, and Mouraria for a lively experience. Keep in mind that these areas may be noisy due to the festival celebrations. Choose your accommodation carefully to ensure a restful stay amidst the excitement.
Where to Experience the Ultimate Arraiais (Parties), Especially on June 12.
For an unforgettable Arraiais experience, especially on June 12th, Lisbon is the place to be. But before you step into the lively festivities, there are a few essentials you'll want to bring: an open mind, comfortable shoes, cash, and a willingness to let loose and have fun. At these parties, the corny pimba music sets the tone, compelling the Portuguese crowd to sing and dance with unparalleled enthusiasm. And while you might not understand every lyric, you'll soon find that almost every family-friendly pimba song is filled with playful innuendos (though the kids might just think it's about parking cars in the neighbor's garage!).
If you're keen on learning the catchy choruses to a few tunes, look no further than the King of Pimba himself, Quim Barreiros. At 74 years old, this iconic singer remains the hottest live act in town, drawing massive crowds with his trademark giant mustache, accordion prowess, cowboy hat, and cheeky lyrics. It's an experience that's guaranteed to be a hoot!
As for where to find the best arraiais in Lisbon, look no further than neighborhoods like Alfama, Castelo, Mouraria, Graça, Bica, Madragoa, and Bairro Alto. But here's the thing – pinpointing exact locations can be tricky, as the parties spill from square to plaza and wind through the narrow streets. However, rest assured that wherever you wander in these vibrant neighborhoods, you're bound to encounter fantastic vibes, sizzling sardine barbecues, and spontaneous dance-offs. When in doubt, simply follow your nose or the irresistible sounds of music echoing through the streets.
Insider Hacks to Manage the Festivities
For a smooth cultural immersion during the festivities:
Carry Cash: Many stalls may not accept cards, and ATMs can run out of cash, especially on Sundays. It's wise to bring enough cash to cover your expenses.
Prepare for Limited Bathrooms: Finding public restrooms can be challenging during the festivities, as many establishments may close their facilities. Be prepared to improvise or plan restroom breaks strategically.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: With plenty of standing, walking, and dancing involved, comfortable footwear is essential. Keep in mind that hailing a taxi home, especially on the night of June 12th, might be difficult, so plan accordingly.
Manjerico Plant Tradition: Look out for small basil plants adorned with messages for sale across the city. These plants, known as Manjerico, are traditionally gifted to loved ones on June 13th, symbolizing newly sprouted love.
