Yesterday, Lisbon celebrated St. Anthony (the matchmaker) day. Many streets were decorated with balloons and arches made out of brightly-coloured paper; a lot of people danced in the streets, in small squares, in open houses and gardens, in the subway; a lot of people ate sardines; a lot of people drunk a lot. As a result of all the dancing, eating and drinking the city is sleeping off the exuberances of the festival with a day-long siesta today! It's the same every single year: on June 13th everything, except shopping malls, is closed.
There is one unique thing that is already part of our tradition: during Popular Saint's celebration, you have “St Antonio's Brides” party, which are marriage parties (for couples that can't afford them) sponsored by the City Hall. The couples will be married at the same time and will have a huge public wedding party!-pretty amazing, yes?!
If you want to plan a trip to Lisbon and you like big parties then don't hesitate!-come to Lisbon! Plan your trip during the month of June to coincide with this unique party which is always held on the 12th.
