If you find yourself in Lisbon in June, you’re in for one of the city’s most beloved and vibrant celebrations: Saint Anthony’s Day. Known locally as Festas de Santo António, this annual party peaks on the night of June 12th, when the streets of Lisbon fill with music, dancing, food, and joy. More than just a single-day celebration, it’s the highlight of the city’s summer — a time when tradition, community, and festivity come together in a way only Lisbon can offer.
Here’s what makes Saint Anthony’s Day so special:
🎭 Marchas Populares: Lisbon’s Colourful Parade
At the heart of the celebrations are the Marchas Populares — traditional parades where each neighborhood (bairro) puts on a dazzling performance. Dressed in matching costumes and dancing to original songs, groups march down Avenida da Liberdade, cheered on by locals and visitors alike. It’s a spirited display of community pride, with each bairro trying to outshine the others with creativity, energy and Lisbon charm. From Alfama to Bairro Alto, every march tells a story of tradition and identity.
🌿 Manjericos: Little Pots of Love
All around the city, you’ll see small pots of basil (manjerico) for sale. But these aren’t just decorative plants — they carry poems, messages of love, and heartfelt wishes. The manjerico is a symbol of affection, and gifting one is a sweet and meaningful tradition. You’ll spot them on balconies, festival stalls, and even in the hands of couples walking through the festivities. Just remember: don’t sniff it directly — folk wisdom says you should stroke the leaves gently and smell your hand instead!
🐟 Sardines: The Scent of Celebration
One of the most unforgettable parts of Saint Anthony’s Day is the smell of grilled sardines wafting through Lisbon’s narrow streets. Charcoal grills are set up outside homes, restaurants, and pop-up stalls, serving sardines on bread or alongside potatoes and peppers. This humble fish becomes a symbol of festivity, and eating sardines at this time of year is a must for locals and curious foodies alike. It’s not just a meal — it’s part of the experience.
💒 Weddings of Saint Anthony
Saint Anthony isn’t just the patron saint of Lisbon — he’s also known as the matchmaker saint. Every year, the city sponsors a special ceremony where several couples — often those in need or chosen through an application process — are married in a beautiful collective wedding. Known as the Casamentos de Santo António, this tradition adds a romantic touch to the celebrations. The couples are given everything from the dress and flowers to the venue and reception — all in the name of love and tradition.
The Spirit of Lisbon
What makes Saint Anthony’s Day so magical isn’t just the events — it’s the feeling. The whole city comes together: young and old, locals and tourists, friends and families. People dance in the streets, sing along to folk songs, and stay out late, soaking in the warm June air and the festive atmosphere. It’s a celebration that captures Lisbon at its most joyful, genuine, and alive.
So, if you’re in Lisbon in June, don’t miss the chance to experience Santo António. Come hungry, bring your dancing shoes, and let yourself fall in love — with the city, the traditions, and maybe even someone new. 💙