Lisbon Festivals and Events – 2025 Guide

What to Expect from Lisbon’s Festivals and Events in 2025

Along with Lisbon’s many tourist attractions, the city hosts some of the best festivals and events in Portugal throughout the year. No matter when you visit, there’s usually an event that adds something extra to your trip.

Tip: It’s worth keeping an eye on Lisbon’s public holidays, as they can affect your plans. On these dates, some museums, shops, and restaurants may be closed, and public transport might run less frequently. That said, some holidays come with street parades and local events so while crowds may be bigger, it’s also a great chance to experience Lisbon’s culture at its best.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up this year and a bit more about what each one’s like.

Upcoming Events in Lisbon 2025

Festas de Lisboa (June)

Every June, Lisbon celebrates St. Anthony, its patron saint, with a full month of festivities across the city. Streets are decorated, live music fills the evenings and sardines are grilled everywhere.

The most important night is June 12th, when Avenida da Liberdade hosts a big parade and locals organise their own traditional street parties known as arraiais.

It’s one of the most authentic times of year and often considered the best time to visit Lisbon if you want to experience local culture at its best.

Out Jazz Festival (May–September)

Out Jazz Festival is a free live music event held in Lisbon’s parks every Sunday from May to September. Each week takes place in a different green space and features jazz, soul, funk or relaxed DJ music. You can bring your own blanket, something to drink and enjoy the music in an outdoor setting.

If you’re visiting Lisbon during these months, it’s a great way to experience the city like a true local and another reason why this season is often considered one of the best times to visit Lisbon.

Lisbon Marathon (October)

The Lisbon Marathon is one of the most popular in Europe, known for its scenic coastal route and flat course, which makes it ideal for both first-time and experienced runners. It draws around 20,000 participants each year and includes three races: the full marathon (42km), a half marathon (21 km) and a mini marathon (8.5 km).

The main race starts in Cascais and finishes in Lisbon, passing along the Atlantic coast and the Tagus River. In 2025 it will take place on October 25th. Even if you’re not running, it’s a great weekend to be in the city as there’s live music and a fun, festive atmosphere.

Christmas in Lisbon (December–January)

In Lisbon, Christmas is celebrated from early December to early January, transforming the city into a festive space with lights, music and markets offering seasonal food and handmade gifts. Streets in areas like Baixa and Chiado are beautifully decorated and there are open-air concerts and family-friendly events happening all across the city.

One of the main Christmas markets is Wonderland Lisboa, set up in Eduardo VII Park, including an ice rink and a Ferris wheel. The celebrations wrap up on January 6th (Dia de Reis), when children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men and families share a special Bolo Rei with a hidden prize.

For more information, check our Christmas in Lisbon page.

New Year’s Eve in Lisbon (December 31)

New Year’s Eve in Lisbon is a big celebration, especially at Praça do Comércio, where crowds gather for live music and fireworks over the Tagus River. The party starts in the evening with concerts and the fireworks go off at midnight, lasting about 15 minutes. It’s free to attend and open to everyone, including families and travellers.

After midnight, many people head to nearby bars and clubs in areas like Pink Street and Bairro Alto to keep the night going.

If you want to check out more details, visit our New Year’s Eve in Lisbon page.

Lisbon Festivals and Events: Frequently Asked Questions

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