Festas de Lisboa-Santo António

Throughout June the Portuguese capital celebrates with considerable gusto the Festas de Lisboa, a series of musical and cultural events held at various venues across the city. Many of these are concentrated in the Alafama district, and in particular the huge unfolding street party that takes place on the night of June 12. This is when the entire population of Lisbon it seems pays homage to their favourite saint, Santo Antonio. The narrow and decorated lanes of the old Moorish quarter tremble under the weight of thousands of revellers drawn to the many ad hoc food and drink stands erected for the occasion. Floating on the breeze are the mouth-watering aromas of charcoal grilled chicken and sardine. Beer, wine and sangria flows in alarming quantities and traditional music fills the air. The party continues well into the small hours and the festival remains one of the most vibrant and animated in Portugal.