The Popular Saints, or “Os Santos” as they’re known, take place throughout the month of June and honor the patron saints of different neighborhoods. <\/p>\n\n
Whether you’re a food lover, a music enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, you won’t want to miss these incredible celebrations. So, let’s dive in and explore the best places to join the fun! <\/p>\n\n
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The Popular Saints festivals are a Portuguese tradition dating back to the 13th century. These festivals are celebrated during the month of June, in honor of three saints: Saint Anthony, Saint John, and Saint Peter. <\/p>\n\n
Although many consider Saint Anthony the patron saint of Lisbon, this was actually a popular choice. In 1173, Saint Vincent was named the official patron saint of the city of Lisbon and remains so to this day. <\/p>\n\n
Born in 1195, Fernando Bulh\u00f5es, better known as Saint Anthony, is the patron saint of fishermen, pregnant women, sailors, travelers, farmers, the elderly, and known to many as the matchmaker saint. The name “Anthony” was chosen by him when he joined the Franciscan Order at the Monastery of S\u00e3o Vicente de Fora<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n Saint Anthony is Lisbon’s most important and popular celebration. For the faithful, his figure symbolizes a kind, intelligent, charismatic man with excellent oratory skills. <\/p>\n\n The Saint John festivals are celebrated on June 24 and are also quite popular in Lisbon, although they don’t have the same scale as the Saint Anthony festivals. It’s in Porto where the festivities reach their peak, with a local holiday on that day. <\/p>\n\n Like Saint John and Saint Anthony, Saint Peter is a highly esteemed popular saint. He’s the last popular saint according to these dates, with his feast celebrated on June 29. This day also celebrates Pope’s Day, since Saint Peter was the first Pope of the Catholic Church. <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n During these celebrations, Lisbon’s streets fill with color and music, inviting everyone to dance, sing, and enjoy delicious food and drink.<\/p>\n\n One of the most traditional activities during the saints’ festivals is the procession, where the saint’s image is carried through the neighborhood streets and people show their devotion.<\/p>\n\n The street parties are also an icon of these Popular Saints festivities in June. The street parties are popular festivals organized by neighborhood associations. The streets are filled with stalls selling food, drinks, and handicrafts. It’s undoubtedly the perfect opportunity to try some of the most delicious dishes of Portuguese cuisine. From grilled sardines to caldo verde, these are delicacies that should be on your menu. Plus, there’s no shortage of refreshing drinks like sangria and beer to accompany the festivities. <\/p>\n\n Equally important are the popular marches. These consist of themed parades, previously rehearsed, with unique costumes. Made up of residents from different neighborhoods, the groups parade down Avenida da Liberdade to the sound of Portuguese popular music. The marches are a true demonstration of Lisbon’s identity and community spirit. <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\nTradition means celebration<\/h2>\n\n