Santo Antonio Festival in Lisbon

History and tradition

The tradition of Santo António in Lisbon dates to the 13th century, when the Franciscan saint, known as Santo António de Lisboa or Santo António de Pádua, lived and preached in the city. Saint Anthony was born in Lisbon in 1195 and is considered one of the most popular saints in Portugal. In addition, he is remembered for his inspiring sermons and his dedication to the poor and needy.

Currently, Santo António in Lisbon is one of the largest and liveliest popular festivals in the city. They combine religious elements, such as processions and ceremonies, with artistic activities, such as popular marches, live music, traditional dances, bonfires, gastronomic events, among others.

The tradition of Santo António in Lisbon is a celebration of the city's identity and culture, as well as a manifestation of devotion. It brings together residents and visitors of all ages in a festive and welcoming atmosphere, providing unforgettable moments of joy and conviviality.

Come and discover the Santo António festivities in Lisbon in 2024.

Popular festivities of Saint Anthony

The Festas de Santo António are one of the most popular and traditional festivals in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. They take place annually in June, with the highlight of the celebrations on the 13th, which is the day of Santo António, the city's patron saint.

On the night of the 12th, the eve of Santo António's day, several events and festivities take place in Lisbon. This night is known as the "Night of Santo António" and marks the beginning of the most intense festivities, being an opportunity for Lisboners and visitors to experience the contagious atmosphere of Santo António. It is a lively and energetic night when the city prepares for the following day's celebrations, when the streets come alive with activities.

The Festas de Santo António are known for their popular and vibrant character, attracting residents and visitors of all ages. During this period, the streets of Lisbon are decorated with colourful flags, festivities and lights, and the historic quarters, such as Alfama, Bica, Mouraria and Bairro Alto, are the main stages of the festivities.

The whole atmosphere, therefore, includes a variety of festivities and ceremonies, such as religious processions, Santo António weddings, popular marches, live music, dances, traditional dances, bonfires, fado and typical food. The Santo António weddings, specifically, are one of the most outstanding traditions, in which local couples are selected to get married in a symbolic moment.

The popular marches are also one of the highlights of the Festas de Santo António. Each neighbourhood forms its march, made up of groups of people dressed up in traditional costumes, dancing and singing to the sound of popular music. The marches compete in lively parades that take place on Avenida da Liberdade, in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Also of note is the "Washing of St. Anthony", where a statue of St. Anthony is placed on a decorated altar and washed with scented water by various people. It is a symbolic act that represents purification and spiritual renewal, being one of the most emblematic moments of the evening.

Besides the traditional activities, Santo António offers a panoply of entertainment, such as parks, food and drink stalls, and popular and artistic fairs. It is a time when people take the opportunity to socialise, dance, eat grilled sardines, caldo verde and other typical delicacies, and enjoy a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

The Festas de Santo António are, in this way, a celebration that reflects Lisbon's identity and culture. They showcase religious devotion, the joy of the people and popular tradition, bringing the city together in an atmosphere of fun and conviviality. It is a unique and memorable experience for those who visit Lisbon during this period.

The preservation of national heritage and the dissemination of local customs are essential to keep alive the identity wealth of a community, valuing its history and ensuring its transmission to future generations.

The Santo António festivities in Lisbon are an opportunity to preserve the best that Portugal's culture and tradition have to offer. And to celebrate with those we love the most!

List of Events during the Santos Populares Festivities 2024

• Renew Mouraria Association's Art Festival - 1st to 17th June. Location: Largo da Rosa (Mouraria)

• Praça da Alegria - 1st to 18th June. Location: Praça da Alegria

• Alfama - 1st to 30th June. Location: in the streets of Alfama

• Misericórdia and Bairro Alto - 1 June to 2 July. Location: Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

• Arraial of the Navigants - 2, 3 and 4 June. Location: Parque das Nações

• Graça - 2nd to 12th June. Location: Rua da Berta (Graça)

• Santos and Campolide - 2nd to 17th June. Location: Rua de Campolide

• Belém - 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 June and 1 July. Location: Largo da Princesa (Clube Sportivo de Pedrouços)

• Carnide - 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 June and 1 July. Location: Rua Neves Costa, Largo do Coreto (Carnide Clube)

• Strela - 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 June and 1 July. Location: Rua do Possolo (Grupo Dramático Escolar "Os Combatentes")

• Alcântara - 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30 June and 1, 2 July. Location: Rua da Academia Recreativa de Santo Amaro (Santo Amaro Academy)

• Saint Anthony Festivities in Penha de França - 9th to 12th June. Location: Rua da Penha de França, in the Sapadores Market.

• 12 June: St Anthony's Bride Parade. It starts at the Cathedral and passes through the street of our agency.

• 12 June: the parade of popular marches.

• 13 June: St Anthony's procession.

• Benfica - 22nd to 25th June. Location: Alameda Padre Álvaro Proença (Benfica)

• Pride Festival - 25th June. Location: Praça do Comércio.

To find out more about this and other festivities, visit Living Tours Lisboa (Rua da Conceição, Loja 23 e 25 1100-151 Lisboa). Our colleagues, specialists in Lisbon, will have the best programmes and experiences to show you.