Santos Populares are among the most vibrant, fun-filled, and traditional festivals in Portugal. Taking place throughout June, these street parties honour three popular saints and turn cities, towns, and villages into buzzing hubs of music, dancing, grilled sardines, and celebration. Prepare for noisy, crowded fun and great community spirit.

What are the Santos Populares?
The Santos Populares (Popular Saints) celebrations honour three different saints, with roots in religious tradition and folk culture. Today, the celebrations, are more secular in tone with parades, dancing, music, parties and delicious local flavours. Neighbourhoods host their own Arraial (party), the original block parties with a very Portuguese flavour!

• Santo António (St. Anthony) – June 12 and 13, with the biggest parties in Lisbon
• São João (St. John) – June 23 and 24, mainly in Porto
• São Pedro (St. Peter) – June 29, in fishing towns and villages

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 Santos Populares at Vila Vita Parc – join a fun Arraial by the resort lake on the 13^th June – music, food, fun and lively celebrations!

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Santos Populares in Quinta do Lago - The annual street fun inpires and evening of food, music and quintessentially Portuguese flavours at Casa Velha in Quinta do Lago. The beautiful terrace will be festooned with flags and pennants, bringing traditional alive!

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Where to Celebrate – Top Cities & Local Highlights
The big parties happen in Lisbon and Porto, attracting thousands of revellers. In the Algarve, expect parties and parades in most towns.

Lisbon – Festa de Santo António
Lisbon goes all out for St. Anthony, its patron saint. The historic neighbourhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, and Graça come alive with:

• Decorated streets full of streamers, flags, and lanterns
• Marchas Populares – colourful parades from each bairro
• Casamentos de Santo António – mass weddings held in public
• Live music and sardine stalls around every corner

Don’t miss the parades and parties on the night of June 12 into June 13. Prepare for crowds!
 
Porto – Festa de São João
The São João Festival in Porto is one of Europe’s most unique midsummer parties with a generous dose of chaotic fun.

• Revellers hit the streets with plastic hammers to bop each other on the head! Yes, you read that correctly.
• Parades and floats on the streets, fireworks to celebrate

This unforgettable party usually peaks on the night of June 23.

 
Algarve – Celebrating the Santos Populares by the Sea
The Algarve may be known for its beaches, but it also knows how to throw a great Santos Populares party.
Look out for local celebrations in towns like Faro, Portimão and Lagos where you can enjoy local celebrations with summer vibes. Check out the Santos Populares in Portimão
 
What to Expect – Music, Food & Traditions
Food & Drink
The most iconic treat is the grilled sardine served on crusty bread. You'll also find:

• Caldo verde – traditional green soup with chouriço
• Bifanas – pork steak sandwiches
• Sweet treats like arroz doce (rice pudding) and filhós

Music & Dancing
Expect catchy, cheeky pop tunes that everyone dances to – música Pimba
Folk dancing groups perform in costume, while DJs spin party tracks into the night
Manjericos & Love Poems
Small basil (manjerico) plants in pots are sold with quirky romantic poems attached
 
Why You Should Experience the Santos Populares
It's one of Portugal’s most authentic cultural celebrations
A mix of locals and tourists enjoy the community spirit and open-air parties
You’ll taste some of the best traditional Portuguese street food
Most events are free, inclusive, and a great way to connect with local life

Top Tips for enjoying the Santos Populares celebrations

• Bring cash - food stalls may not accept card payments
• Wear comfortable shoes - a must for partying on those cobbled streets
• Join in - embrace the fun!