Hotel Marquês de Pombal A celebration with Lisbon’s soul
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A celebration with Lisbon’s soul
June 01 2025
Culture Visit Lisbon 
The Popular Marches are more than just a parade — they are a living expression of Lisbon’s soul. Held on the night of June 12th to 13th, the eve of St. Anthony’s Day, the marches bring together dozens of groups representing the city’s traditional neighborhoods. Each group presents elaborate choreography, traditional costumes, original songs, and an infectious energy.
It’s a show full of color, music, and emotion, where each neighborhood strives to give its best, keeping alive the friendly and festive rivalry between historic areas such as Alfama, Bica, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, among others.
The Popular Marches date back to 1932, the year they were officially held for the first time as part of the festivities organized by Lisbon City Hall. Inspired by spontaneous parades that already took place in the neighborhoods, the event quickly grew and became one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar.
Over the years, the marches have evolved in spectacle and visibility, but they have never lost their original spirit: to celebrate popular culture, neighborhood life, community spirit, and a deep love for the city.
Avenida da Liberdade: The grand stage
It is on Avenida da Liberdade, one of Lisbon’s most elegant and iconic avenues, that the grand parade takes place. On the most anticipated night of the year, the avenue closes to traffic and becomes a true open-air stage. The grandstands along the route fill with thousands of spectators — both locals and tourists — who are captivated by the magic of the marches.
Preparation, emotion and community spirit
The marches are also a competition. A jury evaluates criteria such as originality, music, costumes, and overall presentation. In the end, one neighborhood is declared the winner. But more important than the prize is the sense of community, the enthusiasm of the participants, and the pride of representing one’s neighborhood on one of Lisbon’s most special nights.
Where to stay to enjoy it all up close?
If you're planning to visit Lisbon at this time of year, the best option is to stay somewhere at the heart of the festivities. The Hotel Marquês de Pombal, located right at the start of Avenida da Liberdade, offers a privileged location for those who want to watch the Popular Marches in total comfort. Just steps away from the parade, it’s the perfect choice for travelers seeking both convenience and an authentic experience of a city in celebration.
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It’s a show full of color, music, and emotion, where each neighborhood strives to give its best, keeping alive the friendly and festive rivalry between historic areas such as Alfama, Bica, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, among others.
The Popular Marches date back to 1932, the year they were officially held for the first time as part of the festivities organized by Lisbon City Hall. Inspired by spontaneous parades that already took place in the neighborhoods, the event quickly grew and became one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar.
Over the years, the marches have evolved in spectacle and visibility, but they have never lost their original spirit: to celebrate popular culture, neighborhood life, community spirit, and a deep love for the city.
Avenida da Liberdade: The grand stage
It is on Avenida da Liberdade, one of Lisbon’s most elegant and iconic avenues, that the grand parade takes place. On the most anticipated night of the year, the avenue closes to traffic and becomes a true open-air stage. The grandstands along the route fill with thousands of spectators — both locals and tourists — who are captivated by the magic of the marches.
Preparation, emotion and community spirit
The marches are also a competition. A jury evaluates criteria such as originality, music, costumes, and overall presentation. In the end, one neighborhood is declared the winner. But more important than the prize is the sense of community, the enthusiasm of the participants, and the pride of representing one’s neighborhood on one of Lisbon’s most special nights.
Where to stay to enjoy it all up close?
If you're planning to visit Lisbon at this time of year, the best option is to stay somewhere at the heart of the festivities. The Hotel Marquês de Pombal, located right at the start of Avenida da Liberdade, offers a privileged location for those who want to watch the Popular Marches in total comfort. Just steps away from the parade, it’s the perfect choice for travelers seeking both convenience and an authentic experience of a city in celebration.