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How lucky would it be to have your birthday fall on a public holiday?  This happened to my husband in our current home of Lisbon, Portugal.  His birthday falls right during the Santos Populares holiday in June and I’ve always thought it was so fun!  It took me a few years to get a grasp on the holiday and what the celebrations entail.

Marchas Populares: A Tradition Rooted in Lisbon’s History

The Marchas Populares is one of Portugal’s most beloved traditions, first lighting up the streets of Lisbon in 1932.  Created to celebrate the music, costumes and vibrant spirit of the city’s neighborhoods, the event quickly became a symbol of local pride and cultural identity.

Although the marches were briefly paused after the Carnation Revolution in 1974, they returned in 1980, revived, reenergized and ready to dance their way back into Lisbon’s heart.

At its core, the Marchas Populares is all about celebrating the Festas de Lisboa, a month-long festival honoring the city’s patron saints with food, music, dancing and joyful gatherings in every corner of the capital.

So, What is the Santos Populares Festival in Lisbon?

Lisbon’s celebration of the Santos Populares (Popular Saints) takes over the city each June, turning entire neighborhoods into open-air parties.  While St. John (São João) is widely celebrated across Portugal, particularly in Porto, Lisbon puts the spotlight on St. Anthony (Santo António), the city’s beloved patron saint.

The festivities reach their peak on the night of June 12, when the Marchas Populares parade down Avenida da Liberdade in a dazzling display of rhythm, color and community spirit.

Summer in Portugal is vastly different from winter time.  The Portuguese are like a hibernating species.  They tend to stay home in the winter and don’t go out after dark.  However, summer comes and there seem to be endless festivals and no more bedtimes.  Even the young and old are out past midnight on a regular basis!  

When we first visited the Porto area on our first encounter with Portugal, we were amazed at the local festivals that dotted the Duoro Valley each weekend, complete with concerts and fireworks.  Even little kids were out until the wee hours of the morning, while we were pretty strict with our 8:30 pm bedtime.  

However, that is not the case anymore!  Our kids are older, but are also used to staying up late due to the culture and also due to us working US hours.  We are all in on the summer nightlife, even with the kids!

What Happens During the Santos Populares Festivals for
June 12-13 in Lisbon?

Morning Weddings: Casamentos de Santo António

A huge part of this holiday is focused on getting hitched.  In fact, hundreds of couples apply each year to get married on June 12 in the Lisbon celebrations.  Why?  Partly for the day of fame (they are on the news and march in the parades at night), but also because their wedding is paid for!  This includes the honeymoon!  What a sweet deal.

Civil and religious mass weddings for about 16 couples happen at the Sé Cathedral (Lisbon Cathedral) and Lisbon City Hall.  It’s super popular to go watch, but also busy!  We are usually working (not a US holiday, sadly), but I’ve heard it’s fun to go watch.

These weddings symbolically honor Saint Anthony, known as the patron of lovers.

8–11 PM: Marchas Populares Parade

I first learned about this parade from my hairdresser.  She had been hired to do hair and makeup for these teams and was telling me all about it.  I wasn’t sure what to expect, but decided for my husband’s birthday this year we’d go down to Lisbon and have a look for ourselves!

Neighborhood teams compete in the Marchas Populares, a vibrant street parade along Avenida da Liberdade featuring music, dancers and elaborate costumes.  More on our thoughts below.

10 PM–Dawn – Street Parties (“Arraiais”) 

Lisbon’s old neighborhoods know how to throw a party.

Alfama, Bairro Alto, Graça, Mouraria and Cais do Sodré become open-air block parties, or “arraiais.” The smell of grilled sardines fills the air, Portuguese pimba music blares from speakers and crowds of all ages—families, couples, tourists—dance shoulder-to-shoulder on the cobbled streets.

You’ll see locals holding little pots of manjerico (basil) plants with cute love poems attached—a quirky, sweet symbol of affection during the festival. 

You’ll also enjoy garlands, lanterns and festoons strung overhead—Lisbon transforms into a midsummer wonderland.

 What is the Marches Populares Specifically and Why is it Fun for Families?

The Marchas Populares is more than just a parade, it’s a high-energy showdown of rhythm, color and neighborhood pride.  The streets bring together thousands in a dazzling display of unity and competition.  Some editions have featured over 1,800 participants, including dancers, musicians and organizers, all representing their neighborhoods with passion and flair.

What makes it even more exciting is that each year often features a shared theme that unites all the performances.  While each group performs its own original song and routine, they also include a version of the annual theme song. 

For example, one year the theme was “Alma de Lisboa” (Soul of Lisbon), and every team interpreted it in their own way, blending the shared spirit with their neighborhood’s unique identity.

At its core, this tradition is about celebrating Lisbon’s communities. It’s incredibly fun for families because it’s a treat for the senses.  It combines:

Choreographed Dance Routines

Each team, typically composed of around 80 performers, showcases a meticulously rehearsed dance routine.  These performances blend traditional Portuguese folk dances with contemporary choreography, performed in perfect harmony as they march down the iconic Avenida da Liberdade.

Original Music

Music is at the heart of every marcha.  Each team performs an original song, known simply as the Marcha, composed exclusively for the event.  Backed by a live band, these songs often draw inspiration from fado and folk traditions, with lyrics that reflect local identity, humor and love for Lisbon.

Themed Costumes

The costumes are nothing short of spectacular.  Every team designs a unique set of vibrant, thematic outfits that tie into their overall story.  These costumes often reference Lisbon’s rich heritage, like fishing traditions in Alfama or the bohemian flair of Bairro Alto, bringing each neighborhood’s character to life through fashion.

Floats & Storytelling

At the center of each team’s performance is a decorated float, serving as a mobile stage. These floats visually represent the narrative the team has chosen, whether it’s a romantic tale, a slice of Lisbon history, a social commentary or a tribute to local saints.  Every element (the choreography, costumes, music and float designs) works together to tell a compelling story.

Judging & Rivalry

Performances are judged on choreography, costumes, music, theme integration and overall presentation.  Though the competition is friendly, it’s fiercely contested, with neighborhood pride at stake.  The winners are announced a few days later, sparking celebration or renewed determination for next year.

What to Eat at Lisbon’s Marchas Populares: A Street Food Guide to the Festas

The food is flavorful, and deeply rooted in Portuguese tradition.  Here’s what you absolutely have to try:

Festival Favorites: The Must-Eats

Grilled Sardines (Sardinhas Assadas): The undisputed star of the show.  You’ll smell them before you see them, fresh sardines sizzling over open-air grills.  Served on a slice of rustic bread, perfect for soaking up the juices.

Pork Sandwiches (Bifanas): Thin marinated pork, garlicky and tender, tucked inside a crusty bread roll.  Add a dash of mustard, and you’ve got the ultimate street sandwich, simple, savory and satisfying.

Roasted Chorizo (Chouriço Assado): Spicy, smoky and cooked right over the flame. Portuguese chouriço is packed with paprika and flavor.  Eat it sliced with bread or stuffed in a bun for a smoky snack that pairs perfectly with a cold drink.

 Other Tasty Traditions

Caldo Verde: A warm, comforting potato and kale soup, often with a slice of chouriço floating in it.  Ideal for when the Lisbon night gets a little breezy and you want something cozy in your cup.

Couratos: For the bold eater: grilled pork rind sandwiches.  Crispy, chewy, rich and full of flavor, it’s a local favorite and a must-try if you’re feeling adventurous.

Family Essentials for Marchas Populares in Lisbon

This lively celebration is packed with parades, music, dancing and food, but it also means long hours on your feet and navigating big crowds.  Here are the key items to bring for a smooth and fun experience:

Comfortable Shoes: Lisbon’s steep hills and cobblestone streets are beautiful, but not ideal for sandals or flimsy shoes.  Pack supportive, comfortable walking shoes for everyone, especially if you plan to stay out late enjoying the festivities.

Layers of Clothing: June in Lisbon can be hot during the day but cool at night, especially near the Tagus River.  Bring a light jacket or sweater for each family member to stay comfortable as temperatures drop in the evening.

Cash (in Small Bills): Many food stalls and local vendors are cash-only.  Having euros on hand, especially in smaller denominations, makes it easier to grab snacks, drinks or souvenirs.  ATMs can get crowded or run dry, so plan ahead.

Reusable Water Bottles: With all the walking and dancing, it’s important to stay hydrated.  A refillable water bottle for each person is a smart and eco-friendly way to beat the heat.

A Small, Secure Bag or Backpack: Use a crossbody bag or lightweight backpack to carry your essentials, just big enough for your basics, but not so large that it’s a burden in busy areas.  Keep it zipped and close to your body to avoid pickpockets.

Handy Snacks: While festival food is delicious, lines can be long.  Bring easy snacks (like granola bars or fruit) for the kids to help tide them over until mealtime, or to enjoy while waiting for the next parade to pass.

– – –

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time Lisbon local, the Marchas Populares is an unforgettable experience that captures the city’s heart and soul.  From the dazzling parades to the late-night arraiais, it’s a night where tradition meets pure joy, and where families, friends, and neighbors come together under the summer stars.

If you find yourself in Lisbon in June, don’t miss the chance to be swept up in the rhythm, colors and community spirit of this one-of-a-kind celebration.

Additional Readings

São João Festival Porto with Kids

Best Medieval Festivals in Portugal

Ultimate Guide to Portugal’s Holidays in 2025