Popular Marches - Av. Liberdade

The Marchas Populares are a long-standing tradition of the city of Lisboa and a source of the purest neighbourly cultural pride.

The most original parade, the best music, the best choreography or visual arrangement and the most original lyrics are the subject of heated debate between the rival neighbourhoods in the months following the marchas populares.

Each year on the evening of the 12th June, the different city neighbourhoods descend one of Lisboa’s most iconic avenues, Avenida da Liberdade, in a parade showcasing the dedicated efforts of the different city communities and districts.

There are about 20 marches competing against each other with songs, lyrics, costumes, choreography and overall impression judged by a special jury.

This night is also the scene of an enormous party, street festival and dance, unmistakeable for the smell of grilled sardines and manjerico basil permeating the entire city.

A party that is uniquely lisboeta, which every year draws thousands of people onto the streets of the city and that only winds down early the next morning.

The Marchas Populares began in 1932 and the Popular Saints Celebrations are ranked in the best European festivals.

12th June at 9pm
Free entry
Avenida da Liberdade
Metro: Marquês, Avenida or Restauradores

 

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FESTAS DE LISBOA   |    © EGEAC — CULTURA EM LISBOA

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