Lisbon in June is our absolute favorite time of year! The jacaranda trees are in bloom, the weather is nice and still not too hot, and the festival season called Santos Populares officially begins!

To help give you the best possible time, we’ve prepared a list of 12 fantastic events happening in Lisbon in June 2025! We hope you have a wonderful time!

1. Festas dos Santos Populares e Santo Antonio

When: June 12-13

Where: Various neighborhoods in Lisbon

How much: Free!

Get ready for an awesome June in Lisbon! The city really comes alive with Festas dos Santos Populares e Santo Antonio on June 12 and 13. Without a doubt, it is the most iconic annual celebration in Lisbon!

Imagine the historic neighborhoods of Alfama or Bairro Alto – which are breathtaking even on an average day – buzzing with street parties, live music everywhere, and the delicious smell of grilled sardines filling the air! Ah, the Portuguese dream!

Of all the events, make sure not to miss the parade on Avenida da Liberdade on June 12 and the mass weddings known as the Casamentos de Santo Antônio – in short, the Lisbon council chooses 16 couples to be wed on that day, providing them with rings and even a honeymoon!

2. MEO Kalorama Festival

When: June 19-21

Where: Parque da Bela Vista, Av. Alm. Gago Coutinho, 1950-037 Lisboa

How much: 55-105 EUR

If you’re into big music festivals, make sure to check the lineup for MEO Kalorama! It is a major international music and arts festival held at Parque da Bela Vista from June 19 to 21, 2025. Now in its fourth edition, the festival is recognized as one of Europe’s top events for fans of contemporary music, art, and sustainability.

The lineup typically features a mix of global and local artists across various genres, making it ideal for music lovers and festival-goers looking for a vibrant summer experience in Lisbon! Among the artists who will perform at the festival are Pet Shop Boys, Father John Misty, FKA Twigs, Phantogram, Damiano David, and Jorja Smith.

You can opt for a 3-day ticket that costs 105 EUR or a daily ticket that costs 55 EUR, depending on which artists you’d like to see performing live.

3. Book Fair

When: June 4-22

Where: Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisbon

How much: Free!

If you’re a book lover, mark your calendar for the Lisbon Book Fair, one of the city’s most cherished annual traditions! Held in the leafy expanse of Parque Eduardo VII, this open-air literary festival transforms the park into a haven for bookworms! Whether you’re searching for the latest bestsellers, rare finds, books written by Portuguese authors, or children’s classics, you’ll definitely find something for your preferences!

But the fair is much more than a giant book market. Over 19 days, you can enjoy a packed schedule of events: autograph sessions, book launches, debates, and intimate Friday night concerts. You’ll also be able to attend open-air cinema screenings, workshops, and dedicated children’s programs with staged readings. So, grab your bookmarks and never-ending TBR list and head to Parque Eduardo VII!

4. SunceBeat New Horizons

When: June 19-22

Where: Estr. da Praia do Castelo, 2825-308 Costa da Caparica

How much: 49-270 EUR

If you want to dance by the ocean, buy a ticket for the SunceBeat New Horizons festival! It is a four-day beach festival running from June 19 to 22, 2025, based at Irmão on Costa da Caparica, just outside Lisbon.

Think four days of house, funk, soul, disco, and R&B right on the beach! They’ve got DJs playing all day and night, live bands, and even boat parties! If you’re all about those dance music vibes and a chill but energetic beach atmosphere, this festival is undoubtedly a must!

Among the artists who will perform in Costa da Caparica this year are Ash Lauryn, David Morales, Osunlade, Neil Pierce, Darryn Jones, Helena Guedes, and others.

5. Imagine Dragons Concert

When: June 26

Where: Estádio da Luz, Av. Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, 1500-313 Lisboa

How much: From 124 EUR

I’m waking up, I feel it in my bones, Enough to make my system blow, Welcome to the new age, to the new age…

Yes, you heard that right! Imagine Dragons, one of the most famous bands in the world, will perform at Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz on June 26, 2025, as part of their world tour! It is going to be a massive show at one of the city’s biggest venues, so expect to enjoy all their biggest hits! What else is there to say? Just hurry up and get your tickets – there aren’t many left!

6. Evil Live Festival (featuring Slipknot)

When: June 27-29 

Where: Estádio do Restelo, Praceta Torres do Restelo, 1449-015 Lisboa

How much: 69-169 EUR

Are you a metal and hard rock fan? Perfect! Between June 27 and 29, head straight to the Restelo Stadium in Lisbon to enjoy the Evil Live Festival! You’ll be able to listen to Judas Priest, Korn, Slipknot, Till Lindemann, Falling in Reverse, Municipal Waste, Opeth, Jinjer, Death Angel, and many more!

You can purchase a 2-day ticket for 139 EUR, a 3-day ticket for 169 EUR, or a daily ticket for 69-79 EUR, depending on the day.

7. Candlelight Concerts: The Best of Zeca Afonso

When: June 5

Where: Altis Grand Hotel, R. Castilho 11, 1269-072 Lisboa

How much: 15-36 EUR

For a different kind of musical experience, check out the Candlelight Concerts happening throughout June in some really special spots around Lisbon. This month, the highlight is the fantastic “Best of Zeca Afonso” concert, a tribute to one of Portugal’s most praised artists.

Imagine listening to beautiful music played by talented musicians, all lit by candlelight – it is super intimate and creates a really lovely atmosphere! So, if you’re searching for something unique and relaxing, definitely look into getting tickets as they usually sell out pretty quickly!

8. EmoFest 2025

When: June 7

Where: Lisboa Ao Vivo, Av. Mar. Gomes da Costa 29 B1, 1800-255 Lisboa

How much: 21 EUR

Are you feeling nostalgic for some classic emo tunes? All the Small Things, Decode, Can You Feel My Heart, Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Complicated… Do these sound familiar? If so, make sure to add EmoFest to your June to-do list!

It is scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 2025, at LAV – Lisboa ao Vivo in Lisbon. Get ready for three hours of emo music that will force you to jump straight into the past, back to those teenage years when the songs of Green Day, My Chemical Romance, Paramore, Evanescence, and so many others were the hits of the century! 

9. We Call It Ballet: A Bela Adormecida

When: June 6

Where: Cineteatro Capitólio, Parque Mayer, 1250-164 Lisboa

How much: 28-40 EUR

Ballet lovers, there’s something for you as well! We Call It Ballet: A Bela Adormecida is a dance and light show scheduled for June 2025 in Lisbon.

It is a modern take on Sleeping Beauty with contemporary choreography mixed with innovative lighting effects. That’s why the event is perfect for families with kids too – your children will surely be enchanted by the atmosphere!

All in all, it is an excellent event for those interested in the performing arts and looking for a visually engaging cultural evening.

10. Calema at Estádio da Luz

When: June 7

Where: Estádio da Luz, Av. Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, 1500-313 Lisboa

How much: 40-45 EUR

The popular duo Calema will perform a major concert at Estádio da Luz on June 7, 2025. They are known for their blend of pop and African rhythms and are a favorite in Portugal and beyond. The concert promises high energy, visual effects, and a selection of the duo’s biggest hits. It is the last concert in their world tour, so hurry up and book your tickets, as there aren’t many left!

11. Dead Kennedys Concert

When: June 24

Where: Lisboa Ao Vivo, Av. Mar. Gomes da Costa 29 B1, 1800-255 Lisboa

How much: 35 EUR

Punk rock fans, are you with us? You probably already know everything there is to know about the legendary American punk band Dead Kennedys, right? Well, they will perform in Lisbon this year, so if you happen to be here at the end of June, head straight to Lisboa Ao Vivo for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

The good news is that tickets are only 35 EUR if you buy them online. However, you can also purchase your ticket directly at the physical store counter.

12. Somersby Out Jazz

When: June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Where: Jardins da Quinta Real de Caxias, Estr. Gibalta 18B, Caxias

How much: Free

For a super chill evening, head to Jardins da Quinta Real de Caxias for the Somersby Out Jazz Festival! It is a free, open-air concert series running on Sunday evenings throughout June.

The series features local and international artists performing jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop. For example, on June 1, you can listen to Kandar and Pedro Piu, while on June 8, you’ll enjoy the music of Algarve Jazz Collective and M.Dusa.

It is a relaxed, family-friendly event ideal for music lovers and anyone looking to enjoy Lisbon’s summer evenings outdoors – not to mention that Quinta Real de Caixas is, in itself, a delightful destination.

While Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coastline often steals the spotlight, the country’s interior hides some of its most magical swimming spots: river beaches or “praias fluviais.” These natural oases offer visitors crystal-clear waters, warmer water, and a refreshing alternative to the sometimes crowded and windy coastal beaches.

Join us as we explore some of Portugal’s most spectacular river beaches, which each have their own unique character. If you’ve never visited a river beach before, we hope we can convince you to give them a try after taking a look at our list!

1. Praia Fluvial do Alamal (Gavião, Portalegre)

Situated along the Tejo River in the Alto Alentejo region, Praia Fluvial do Alamal showcases the breathtaking beauty of Portugal’s largest river. Compared to other beaches, the stretch of sand here is quite long and comes with views of Belver Castle, which can be spotted at the top of the slope across the Tagus.

The beach area is equipped with 3 km of wooden walkways, and the water is calm and clean, just perfect for swimming or lazily floating along in the summer heat.

Canoe and kayak rentals are also available, and you can also enjoy a meal at the riverside restaurant.

2. Praia Fluvial de Loriga (Serra da Estrela)

Often called the “beach of the glaciers,” Praia Fluvial de Loriga sits high in Portugal’s highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela. This remarkable river beach is formed by crystal-clear mountain waters flowing through granite rocks that have been sculpted by ancient glaciers.

Located near the picturesque mountain village of Loriga, this river beach is unique for its dramatic setting. Surrounded by terraced slopes and formed by the pure waters of the Ribeira de Loriga, the natural pools here are among the coldest in Portugal, which makes for a genuinely refreshing experience even on the hottest summer days. That’s right – the water is quite chilly! Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Despite the chilly temps, the 800-meter Loriga River Beach is a must-visit for its beauty alone – even if your toes don’t even touch the water! Relax in several natural swimming pools and then grab a bite to eat at the bar. After swimming, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic village of Loriga itself, with its traditional stone houses and regional gastronomy specializing in like goat stew and mountain cheese.

3. Praia Fluvial da Reconquinho (Penacova, Coimbra)

The Mondego River, Portugal’s longest entirely Portuguese river, hosts several excellent river beaches, with Reconquinho being among the finest. Located about 1.5 km Penacova in the central region, you can reach this expansive Blue Flag river beach by walking down a hill. Once there, you will be instantly charmed by its wide sandy shore and calm, clean waters.

The beach features excellent facilities including a restaurant, picnic area, a boat shelter, and lifeguards during the summer season. There is also a campsite near the beach.

Reconquinho is particularly popular with families due to its shallow entry points and supervised swimming areas. To get the full experience, stay overnight in the nearby town of Penacova, perched dramatically on a hillside overlooking the Mondego, and take in the beautiful scenery and pick up a traditional pastry called “pastéis de Lorvão.”

4. Praia Fluvial de Pego Fundo (Alcoutim, Algarve)

While the Algarve is famous for its coastal beaches, the inland river beach of Pego Fundo offers a completely different experience. Located near the border town of Alcoutim on the Guadiana River, this beach provides a relaxing alternative to the busy seaside resorts just an hour away.

What makes Pego Fundo special is its position on the Guadiana, with views across to Spain on the opposite bank. The beach has been thoughtfully developed with a spacious sandy area, shade structures, and a swimming area created by a small dam that ensures safe swimming conditions separated from the main river current.

The water here is notably warmer than many other river beaches, with temperatures that can reach up to 28 °C (82.4 °F) reflecting the hot climate of the eastern Algarve. During summer, the temperature difference between morning and evening is minimal, making this an ideal spot for evening swims after the heat of the day has passed. 

The surrounding area offers beautiful hiking trails along the Guadiana, and the historic town of Alcoutim itself is worth exploring with its medieval castle and riverfront restaurants specializing in freshwater fish dishes. The international ferry that crosses between Alcoutim and Sanlúcar in Spain adds another layer of excitement to your visit.

5. Praia Fluvial do Agroal (Ourém, Santarém)

Located in central Portugal, Praia Fluvial do Agroal stands out for the unique quality of its water. Fed by the Nabão River and natural springs, this river beach features mineral-rich waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. So, if you visit this river beach, you are also getting a trip to a natural spa – a nice two for one.

The beach area has been thoughtfully developed with respect for the natural environment. There are both shallow and deeper sections to swim that are suitable for all ages.

What makes Agroal particularly special is the convergence of normal river water with the mineral spring water, which creates interesting temperature variations as you swim. The facilities here are excellent, with a drinking fountain, cafeteria, changing facilities, and a life guard on duty during the summer months. The historic city of Tomar is a short 20-minute drive away if you would like to see some Knights Templar history and also spend a day relaxing along this beautiful river.  

6. Praia Fluvial de Fragas de São Simão (Figueiró dos Vinhos, Leiria)

Perhaps one of central Portugal’s most photogenic river beaches, Fragas de São Simão is set within an amazing gorge where the rocky cliffs meet the crystal waters of the Ribeira de Alge. Located near Figueiró dos Vinhos in Leiria, a region devastated by wildfires in 2017, this beach is reached by a wooden walkway that is about 500 steps down, although parking is available closer to the bottom of the hill.

The towering rock formations that give the spot its name (“fragas” meaning rocky cliffs) create a cathedral-like atmosphere and provide shade during different parts of the day. We like that there is plenty of space to swim here and the wild setting of the beach makes you feel like you are in entirely different world altogether (although toilets are still available). Be sure to explore the surrounding waterfalls and mountain trails while you are in the area.

7. Praia Fluvial da Louçainha (Penela, Coimbra)

In the heart of Schist Village country, Praia Fluvial da Louçainha gives visitors the perfect example of historic rural Portugal. Located near Penela in the Coimbra district, this river beach on the Ribeira da Louçainha has been developed with special attention to integrating with the traditional architecture and materials of the region.

The beach features a large natural swimming pool created by a small dam surrounded by an expansive wooden boardwalk. You also have access to changing rooms, toilets with showers, a panoramic restaurant, and a picnic area. Life guards are also on duty during the summer months.

The water here is incredibly clear due to the water flowing through predominantly forested areas with little agricultural runoff. This is part of the reason why this beach has also been given a Blue Flag.

The nearby Schist Villages (Aldeias do Xisto) network offers opportunities to explore traditional mountain communities that have been revitalized through sustainable tourism initiatives. After a refreshing swim, visitors can explore these villages with their narrow streets and local craft shops.

8. Praia Fluvial das Azenhas d’El Rei (Alandroal, Alentejo)

One of Portugal’s newest Blue Flag river beaches, Praia Fluvial das Azenhas d’El Rei is a perfect oasis on the shores of Europe’s largest artificial lake, the Alqueva reservoir. Located just 3 kilometers from the town of Montes Juntos in the municipality of Alandroal, this beach stretches for 148 meters and boasts impressive facilities that earned it both Blue Flag and Accessible Beach certifications. Wooden walkways provide easy access for visitors with reduced mobility, while the area includes a watchtower, lifeguard station, shaded areas, information panels, public bathrooms and showers. The adjacent leisure area features a restaurant with a terrace, boat ramp, anchorage for water sports, picnic areas, and ample parking.

One of the most unique aspects of this river beach is its location directly across from a Spanish beach in Cheles, Badajoz, which gives you an interesting mix of visitors from both countries.

If you’re looking for an authentic Alentejo experience, the beach serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside with its small villages, rolling landscapes, and renowned local gastronomy, all while enjoying the perfect refreshing break from the intense summer heat.

9. Praia Fluvial da Albufeira do Azibo (Macedo de Cavaleiros, Bragança)

In the northeastern corner of Portugal, the Albufeira do Azibo reservoir hosts two exceptional river beaches: Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Fraga da Pegada. These twin beaches are situated within a protected landscape area in the district of Bragança, which gives visitors a unique lake-like experience far from the coast.

Both beaches have earned Blue Flag status for their exceptional water quality, safety standards, and environmental management. The backdrop of gently rolling hills covered in typical Trás-os-Montes vegetation creates a sense of peaceful seclusion despite the popularity of the twin beaches.

The calm, clear waters of the reservoir make this an ideal spot for families, with gentle entry points perfect for children and non-swimmers. Unlike many river beaches with rocky bottoms, the sandy shores here extend into the water, providing a more comfortable swimming experience. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty, and floating platforms offer diving opportunities for the more adventurous among us.

Beyond swimming, the area offers numerous recreational activities including pedal boats, canoes, paddleboards, and hiking trails that circle the reservoir.

You can also find changing rooms, showers, picnic areas, and restaurants at both locations, which make these river beaches some of the most user-friendly in northern Portugal.

For travelers exploring the historic villages and natural parks of Trás-os-Montes, the Azibo beaches provide the perfect refreshing break.

10. Praia Fluvial de Tapada Grande (Mina de São Domingos, Alentejo)

Perhaps one of Portugal’s most unusual river beaches, Praia Fluvial de Tapada Grande is located near the historic mining village of Mina de São Domingos in the eastern Alentejo and sits on an artificial lake created during the area’s mining heyday in the 19th century.

What makes Tapada Grande truly special is its desert-like surroundings. The reddish earth and sparse vegetation typical of this corner of the Alentejo create an almost otherworldly landscape that contrasts dramatically with the cool blue waters of the lake. The beach feels like a genuine oasis amid the scorching summer heat that characterizes this region.

Despite its industrial origins, the water quality here is excellent and has earned the beach Blue Flag certification. The lake is quite large, so you are guaranteed to have enough space to swim even during the busiest summer periods. A sandy beach area complete with free umbrellas, a restaurant/bar with a terrace overlooking the water, changing rooms, showers, and lifeguard supervision are all available during the summer. Visitors can also rent canoes to explore the lake’s perimeter or enjoy the various walking paths that connect the beach to the nearby village.

11. Praia Fluvial de Adaúfe (Braga, Minho)

In Portugal’s Minho region, Praia Fluvial de Adaúfe is a beloved summer destination just a few kilometers from the historic city of Braga. Set along the Cávado River, this beach features expansive grassy banks rather than sand, which gives visitors the chance to spread out under the shade of mature trees that line the riverbanks.

Facilities at Adaúfe include picnic areas with stone tables and barbecue pits – the perfect spot for a summer picnic. During the summer months, you can get a simple meal or some ice cream at a small café. The river is relatively shallow with a gentle current, which makes it safe for swimmers of all abilities, although we always recommend staying within the designated swimming areas.

What makes this beach stand out for us is its accessibility to the city of Braga. After visiting the city’s famous Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary or historic cathedral, visitors can cool off at Adaúfe before sampling the region’s famous vinho verde (green wine) at nearby vineyards. Wine + culture + beach? What’s not to love?

Final Thoughts

Portugal’s river beaches offer a perfect alternative to the often-crowded coastlines. Bathe in the heart of a glacial valley in Serra da Estrela, the warm southern waters of the Algarve, or the huge Alqueva reservoir in the Alentejo. Whichever river beach you choose, these praias fluviais are sure to provide a respite from the scorching summer heat.

These river beaches are still, in our opinion, some of the country’s best-kept secrets. Most, if not all of them, are only accessible by car with no public transportation options available. This is why they continue to remain off the beaten path for many.

However, as climate change brings increasingly hot summers to the Iberian Peninsula, these refreshing oases will become ever more valuable. Visiting respectfully, supporting the local economies, and preserving the natural qualities that make these places special will ensure that they continue to delight visitors for generations to come. 

Which river beach in Portugal would like to visit first? Let us know in the comments!

Lisbon is about to come alive with its most vibrant celebration of the year – the Santos Populares (Popular Saints) festivals. These beloved neighborhood celebrations transform the city into a colorful tapestry of music, traditional food, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or visitor, this guide will help you navigate the festivities across Lisbon’s most characteristic neighborhoods. From riverside revelry to historic village celebrations, here’s everything you need to know about Lisbon’s biggest party of 2025.

The Santos Neighborhood Kicks of the Santos Populares Celebrations

Date – May 16 to June 15, 2025
Location – Terrapleno de Santos (next to K Urban Beach)
Hours – Sunday to Thursday, 4 PM to 11 PM; Fridays, Saturdays and Holiday Evenings, 4 PM to 1 AM
Entry – Free 

The Santos neighborhood kicks off the festivities with its signature event “Santos in Santos,” which returns to Terrapleno. Featuring live music, traditional food and drinks, and free entry, it’s one of the biggest parties in the city.

Musical Program

• May 16: Saúl
• May 17: Iran Costa and Baile Funk
• May 18: Samba do Serginho
• May 20: Karaoke with Soraia Carrega
• May 22: Zé Pedro Sousa
• May 23: Marante
• May 24: Carapaus, Olive Oil and Garlic
• May 25: Samba do Serginho
• May 27: Karaoke with Soraia Carrega
• May 28: Bad Bunnies
• May 29: Deja Vu
• May 30: Quim Barreiros
• May 31: DJ Kamala
• June 12: Rosinha
• More to be announced…

Beyond music and food, the event includes numerous attractions, which makes it perfect for families and groups of friends celebrating by the Tagus River. Visitors can enjoy a giant Ferris wheel, bumper cars for children and adults, thrill rides (Kanguro, Break Dance and Mega Dance), children’s rides, a haunted house, trampolines, and a game room.

Vila Berta

Date – May 31 to June 12, 2025
Location – Graça

One of Lisbon’s best festivals, the Vila Berta celebration in Graça, starts this month. The tradition among the neighborhood’s residents has existed for at least 100 years.

What began as a festival exclusively for residents now attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. In this festival, all neighbors contribute. Older residents handle decorations and raffles, while others manage sweets and sardines. There is involvement from all generations, and it is the residents themselves who organize the festival. At Vila Berta, you will feel like you’re being welcomed right into someone’s backyard, although you are actually seated at a long table on one of the neighborhood’s narrow streets. Perhaps this cozy, convivial feeling is why it was voted the best festival in Lisbon by NiT readers in 2023.

Arraial da Misericórdia

Date – June 1-30, 2025
Location – Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Hours – Sunday to Thursday, 10 AM to 10 PM; Fridays, Saturdays and Holiday Evenings, 10 AM to midnight. On June 12 (Santo António eve), from 10 AM to 4 AM on June 13.
Entry – Free

The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint fills with color and joy to celebrate Lisbon’s Popular Saints (Santos Populares) festival. With one of the most beautiful views of Lisbon as its backdrop, the Misericórdia Festival offers one of the best musical entertainment programs during the Popular Saints festivities. This year’s program features twelve performances by popular music artists recognized in the Portuguese music scene.

Traditional festival dishes will be out in full force including grilled sardines, pork sandwiches (bifanas), snacks, sweets, and other savory options, among many other choices, along with artisanal products.

This event is organized by the Misericórdia Parish Council and includes the participation of various local associations and community groups.

Bring your friends and family and have fun! 

Grande Arraial de Belém

Date – May 30 to June 15, 2025
Location – Parque dos Moinhos de Santana
Hours – Monday to Friday from 5 PM; Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays from 3 PM

After last year’s success, Belém will once again be dressed in light and color to host the second edition of the Grande Arraial de Belém. 

Between May 30 and June 15, this unique neighborhood will again transform into the epicenter of the year’s most anticipated party, with a program full of great performers and activities designed for everyone. Parque dos Moinhos de Santana promises to come alive with music, dance, entertainment for all ages.

This year, the biggest highlights include Deixa Rolá on May 30, Tio Jel with his contagious energy on May 31, Toy on June 4, and Sék Mintendes on June 7.

This year, June 8 will be reserved for the June festivities typical of Brazil – a singular day that promises plenty of music, dance, and entertainment with a very special touch.

The big night of Santo António on June 12 has all the ingredients to be truly memorable. Tudo ao Molho, the original Paladin band, will be on stage with all their joy, followed by the incomparable Quimbé and Rubim, with P*ta da Loucura, in an explosive show not to be missed.

Hot Crazy Boy follows with his unique dynamic, and to end on a high note, the Party Animals will make the night of June 12 even more epic with their well-known Crazy Hour.

The Grande Arraial de Belém emphasizes its family-friendliness with spaces dedicated to children, activities, inflatables, amusement park rides, and plenty of entertainment throughout the event. It’s a unique way to celebrate the Santos Populares with the whole family in a safe and welcoming environment.

Of course, there will be traditional food and drink stands with a wide range of choices for everyone, featuring the most traditional Portuguese cuisine, but also with some surprises. Stay tuned!

Arraial Santo António

Date – May 27 to June 19, 2025
Location – Praça da Alegria
Entry – Free

The Santo António Festival will feature live music (Fridays, Saturdays, and Holiday Evenings), drinks, and snacks. Get ready because plenty of entertainment is guaranteed.

Arraial dos Navegantes

Date – June 6-8, 2025
Location – Passeio do Levante 4.81.01

Amidst balloons, marches, and basil trees, feel your heart beat stronger to the smell of sardines, infectious dances, and warmth of the festival attendees. The live music schedule is yet to be announced.

Arraial de São Miguel (Alfama)

Date – June 1-30, 2025
Location – Alfama

Entertainment abounds at the São Miguel Festival. The largest festival in the heart of Alfama and the most charismatic in the city takes place throughout June, organized by the Santa Maria Maior Parish Council. Live popular music on weekends and holiday evenings. Stay tuned for the full schedule.

Arraial da Academia de Santo Amaro

Date – June 1-30, 2025
Location – R. Academia Recreativa de Santo Amaro 8A

Count on live music nights along with traditional snacks and refreshments with a beautiful view of the April 25 Bridge with a very local neighborhood feeling.

Arraial de Campo de Ourique

Date – June 20-22, 2025
Location – Rua José Gomes Ferreira, no Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários

Campo de Ourique will host its own festival during the third week of June. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for more updates.

Embrace the Spirit of Santos Populares in Lisbon!

Starting with the first festival in the Santos neighborhood on May 16, Lisbon transforms into one huge party where the smell of grilled sardines and chorizo fill the air, the multi-colored streamers festoon the streets, and the Sagres beer flows. The Santos Populares festivals represent the heart and soul of Lisbon’s identity, where generations come together to share in the joy of music, food, and community spirit. We created this short guide to introduce some farther flung celebrations outside of the center of Lisbon including Campo de Ourique, Santo Amaro, and Belém. Each neighborhood brings its unique character to these festivities.

Whether you’re savoring freshly grilled sardines on bread, dancing to popular music until dawn, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere with locals and tourists, the Santos Populares show off Lisbon’s energetic side in the biggest possible way. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and prepare to experience Lisbon at its most colorful and lively – especially on the night of June 12, where the party goes all night long including the Marchas Populares parade on Avenida da Liberdade! Map out your Santos Populares plans and we’ll see you at the festivals!