After two years of interruption due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the traditional June parties will be back in Lisbon in 2022.
The so-called Santos Popular parties (Santo Antônio, São Pedro and São João) are one of the highlights of the calendar of attractions in Portugal.
As in Brazil, the Portuguese arraiás are marked by food and beverage stalls, with guaranteed fun for the whole family.
In the capital, the apex of the festivities is the day of Saint Anthony (13/06), which is a public holiday in the city.
Responsible for culture in Lisbon, councilor Diogo Moura said that the party should take place in full this year, although there may still be some restrictions, depending on the evolution of the pandemic.
Speaking to the Lusa agency, the councilor was categorical about the municipal provision for the party, which would only be canceled in the event of a significant worsening of the Covid-19 situation.
“We realize that we’re all going to have to take risks, […] It’s a risk that we all share, with the awareness that we really want to have the parties, so do it safely”, said Moura, stressing that the authorities are preparing specific contingency plans for the revelry.
With more than 90% of the population fully vaccinated, Portugal currently has few restrictions in place against Covid-19.
In addition to the arraías, the marches contest is also back, a themed competition between the various Lisbon parishes.
Santo Antônio weddings – a collective marriage sponsored by the municipality – will also be back.
