12 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival

12 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival

Woooohoooo ITS BACK!! back for 2025. Here are 10 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival. Lisbon comes alive during the month of June with street parties and parades during the Santo Antonio Festival in Lisboa.

There are many traditions around the Mediterranean countries of Saint Anthony and the miracles he is said to have performed, in Lisbon it is 
Festa de Santo António.

These are a mix between the older and religious Portuguese population and younger generations good time vibes. The older generation tend to still hold the old traditions of the festival and the younger Portuguese that are more than happy to celebrate this feast day with a week long party of drinking, dancing and eating sardines.

Lets read 12 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival

Eat Sardines

During the festival the streets of Lisbon are decorated with colourful balloons and garlands with the smell of sardines floating through the air. For those more interested in the food side of the festival, food stalls appear on every corner selling traditionally grilled sardines. It is said that the Portuguese consume a whooping 13 sardines per second during the celebrations.

So why Sardines? Sardines are associated with the poor and since St. Anthony took a vow of poverty, sardines are considered an important symbol of this tradition. You will definitely see and smell the charcoaled sardines all over the city.
6 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival

Dance

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
Within the oldest districts in Lisbon – Mouraria, Graca, Alfama, Ajuda and Bairro Alto. The nights come alive with traditional parties which include street music, dancing to traditional Portuguese songs and DJs playing modern music.

Stages are set in the small squares of Lisbon’s oldest quarters playing a variety of music until early morning. The streets are rammed full of people with locals dancing together all night long. Paper garlands has been hung between buildings to create a Carnival-style atmosphere. Next on our list of 12 Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival is number 3.

Drink

It is not possible to attend the Festival without having a beer or two. Every street has a beer tent where you can buy Portuguese beers of Sagres and Super Bock, as well as other drinks.

Locals set up their own stores from their front window selling beer, wine and sangria. No matter what street you find yourself on during the Santo Antonio festival you will find a beer station within 2 metres!
bar crawl albufeira

Watch The Parade

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
Santo Antonio is the patron saint of Lisbon and the city celebrates him on the 12 June with the parade of popular marches along Avenida da Liberdade.

From 9pm, Avenida da Liberdade fills with dancers and music. The parade is a competition between Lisbon’s traditional neighbourhoods that during a whole year have prepared their unique choreographies and outfits.

You can purchase tickets to watch the parade from the Official Festival Website: The Lisbon City Council or EGEAC (the municipal company organizing cultural events) often provides ticket sales online.

Tickets can also be purchased at local venues such as the Lisbon Tourism Office.

Seating areas typically become available in late May or early June.

You can also watch the Santo Antonio Festival parade live on Portuguese TV.

Get Married !

The Santo Antonio festival and the love story Saint Antonio is one of the most famous saints associated with love.

During the festival each year, on June 12th, each year there is a mass wedding ceremony held for multiple couples at  Lisbon’s Sé Cathedral.

The Newlyweds then march in a parade along the Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon. The Casamentos de Santo António  is a privileged affair for the 16 happy couples. 

If you’re interested in attending or watching, the weddings are typically broadcast on Portuguese television.

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
Where to Visit in Lisbon

Wish For A Boyfriend

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
And for the unmarried women seeking a good partner the trick is to purchase a small statue of the Saint and then bury this statue in the ground.

Then only dig him back out once the saint has worked his miracles and a suitable partner is found. After the matchmaking the statue is dug up and the happy couple will keep the statue close for luck. For the ladies that buried their statue 5 years ago and still have not met the love of their life, there is an alternative tradition.

After midnight on the night of the festival, single women can throw coins at the statue of the saint in front of the Church of Saint Anthony. Wishing for their love life luck in the following year to improve and to dig up the buried statue.

Of course there is no equal tradition for single men, que surpresa! Thankfully, nowadays,  not many women can be seen trying to change their luck! 

Listen to Music You Never Heard Before

Traditional Pimba music is a genre of Portuguese popular music that emerged in the 1980s and gained widespread popularity in the 1990s.

Pimba music is characterized by its catchy melodies, simple lyrics, and lively rhythms. It is often associated with a festive and humorous tone. The term “Pimba” is believed to have originated from the onomatopoeic sound of a trumpet or a similar musical instrument commonly used in this genre. Pimba music draws influences from traditional Portuguese folk music, as well as other genres such as pop, rock, and Latin music.
Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival


Lyrically, Pimba songs often revolve around lighthearted themes, love, relationships, and everyday life situations.
The lyrics tend to be straightforward and easy to understand, making them relatable to a wide audience. Pimba music often incorporates playful and humorous elements, with tongue-in-cheek or sometimes even risqué lyrics.

Pimba music gained popularity through the use of catchy melodies and energetic performances, often accompanied by dance routines. It is commonly played at festivals, weddings, and other social gatherings, where people can sing along, dance, and have a good time.

Stuff Your Face With Sweet Stuff

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
Churros are made of thin strips of dough, resembling a doughnut, while farturas are their larger counterparts. Farturas feature thicker tubes of dough, resulting in a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior.

These fritters can be enjoyed in their simplest form, lightly dusted with a combination of sugar and cinnamon. Alternatively, they can be filled with delectable, gooey fillings such as custard, chocolate, or sugary fruit jams. This is my favourite on my list of things to do at the Santo Antonio festival, but not so much my waistline!

Basil Brings Good Luck

As the aroma of sardines permeates the air, it is not the sole fragrance that lingers (though undeniably the most dominant).

Those in the vicinity of the Church of Saint Anthony will also notice a delightful earthy scent of fresh basil (manjerico) wafting from tables adorned with potted plants, eagerly awaiting purchase by singles and couples for their beloved partners.

Basil holds symbolic significance, believed to bring good fortune, particularly in matters of the heart.
Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival

Explore Decorated Neighborhoods

Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival
The streets of Alfama and Mouraria come alive with vibrant streamers and twinkling lights during the Santo Antonio festival.

You cannot walk down a street without the party vibe being loud and proud.

This creates a happy festive atmosphere throughout the city.

Explore Decorated Neighborhoods

On June 12th party goers can enjoy the cities firework displays lighting up the city’s skyline in a dazzling display.

The fireworks typically last around 10 to 15 minutes, adding a magical ending to the Santo Antonio festival.
Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival 3

Enjoy History


Santo António, also known as Saint Anthony of Padua, is a highly revered figure in Lisbon, Portugal. He is considered the patron saint of the city and is widely celebrated by the local population. Santo António was a Portuguese Catholic friar and priest who lived during the 12th and 13th centuries. He was born in Lisbon in 1195 and later joined the Franciscan order. Santo António is known for his devotion to serving the poor and spreading the teachings of Christianity. He became renowned for his eloquent preaching and his ability to perform miracles. His popularity grew after his death, and he was canonized as a saint just a year after he passed away in 1231.
Is your favourite Things To Do At Santo Antonio Festival on our list?
 

Lisbon Weather

LISBOA WEATHER

How To Get To Lisbon

By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.

When To Visit Lisbon?

What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?

Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).

* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.

*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.

*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.

Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 1 Day

1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.

2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.

3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.

4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.

5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.

6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.

7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.

8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.


Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days

Day One – Exploring Lisbon

1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.

2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.

3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.

4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.

5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.

6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.

7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.

8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra

1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.

2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.

3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.

4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.

5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.

6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.

7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.

Other Lisbon Travel Guides

Best Hotels in Lisbon


Accommodation
Star Rating
Top Reviewed

EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel

EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel

Wine & Books Lisboa Hotel

Haws Lisboa

Vincci Alfama

Hotel da Baixa

Blue Liberdade Hotel

Monte Belvedere Hotel by Shiadu

Jardim da Lapa by Shiadu

Moov Hotel Lisboa Oriente

easyHotel Lisbon

Hotel Canada

5 Star

5 Star

5 Star

4 Star

4 Star

4 Star

3 Star

3 Star

3 Star

2 Star

2 Star

2 Star
9.3

9.3

9.3

9.6

9.6

9.5

9.5

9.3

9.3

8.5

8.6

8.3

Things to Know Before You Go

The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶‍♂️

Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.

Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.

Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.

In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:

Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Activities in Portugal

Written by Clara R.

“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”

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