What is actually… Popular Marches in Portugal

The popular marches in Lisbon are the highlight of the Lisbon Festivities. They date back to 1932, when the first competitive marches were organized, under the guidance of José Leitão de Barros, then director of Notícias Ilustrado, supported by olisipography Norberto de Araújo and Diário de Lisboa. This is one of the oldest and most growing traditions in the city of Lisbon (the marches were joined, in 1958, by the weddings of Santo António). However, marches have been taking place in Lisbon since the 18th century.

The current winning march is the Marcha de Alcântara, after winning its 1st title in the 2024 Lisbon Popular Marches.

Popular marches in Portugal are a vibrant expression of Portuguese culture and tradition, especially celebrated in Lisbon and in various locations across the country. Annually, during the month of June, these festivities come to life in the streets, especially during the celebrations of Santo Antônio, the patron saint of the city of Lisbon.

The essence of popular marches lies in their ability to unite communities. Groups of people, often represented by neighborhoods or associations, prepare for months, rehearsing dances, songs and choreography that reflect the spirit and identity of each place. The marches are a true celebration of diversity and a colorful demonstration of folklore, with traditional costumes that vary according to the specificities of each group.

Marchinhas’ songs are usually catchy and full of rhythm, and deal with a variety of themes, from love and everyday life to social criticism and reflections on the human condition. These songs, generally performed in a festive atmosphere, are accompanied by dances that transform the streets into true stages of joy, where public participation is invited and widely encouraged.

The popular marches parades are a true visual spectacle. The streets are filled with color and excitement, with people waving flags, singing and dancing in unison. The marches bring a feeling of belonging and community, uniting not only participants, but also spectators of all ages, who let themselves be enveloped by the festive atmosphere.

In addition to nostalgia and attachment to the past, popular marches also evolve, incorporating new influences and styles, thus reflecting a changing society. Modernity does not erase traditions; rather, it enriches them, allowing them to be passed down from generation to generation with a contemporary touch.

In short, popular marches in Portugal are much more than simple festivities. They are a celebration of cultural identity, community strength and the joy of living. Through vibrant dances, infectious music and colorful costumes, they reveal the essence of a people who know how to value their roots, while looking to the future.

There are historical references to marches in Lisbon since the 18th century, with several neighborhoods having marches and marchers in their popular festivals. But it was only in 1932 that the first competitive marches were organized, under the guidance of José Leitão de Barros, then director of Notícias Ilustrado, supported by olisipography Norberto de Araújo and Diário de Lisboa. The marches that were previously celebrated in each neighborhood then came together in a parade on Avenida da Liberdade and participated in a contest to choose the best in the city. The premiere held with 3 Marchas on the night of June 12, 1932 on Avenida was a resounding success, with 300 thousand people in the audience. After 15 days, at the time of São Pedro, there was a new parade with 6 Marches competing, in what was the only year with two Popular Marches parades.

The original Marches of 1932 were: Campo de Ourique, Bairro Alto, Alto do Pina, Madragoa, Alfama and Alcântara.

The enormous success of the Marches in the inaugural year led to their becoming official, with their integration into the Lisbon Festivities and the organization becoming the responsibility of the Lisbon City Council, in 1934. The Marches also became part of films , such as “A Canção de Lisboa” and “O Pátio das Cantigas”.

In 1952, the marches began to go down Avenida da Liberdade and, in 1998, the marches were also present at Expo 98.

Fado singer Amália Rodrigues was, from the beginning, a marcher in the then Marcha de Alcântara.

In 1940 they took to the streets, more important than ever, in celebration of a double centenary, of the Foundation of the Portuguese State (1140) and the Restoration of Independence (1640).

The marches were joined in 1958 by the Santo Antônio Weddings.