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Brazilian Festival in Lisbon September 2025: Lavagem de Santo António

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Hey there, culture lovers! If you’re anything like me, the thought of blending Portuguese charm with the infectious energy of Brazil gets your heart racing—and Lisbon’s Brazilian Festival from 18-20 September 2025 is set to deliver just that! While the city is famous for its June Santo António festivities, this September event brings a fresh twist with Brazilian flair, centered around the Lavagem de Santo António. I’ve dug into the latest details to bring you a guide packed with confirmed events, dates, times, free public activities, and more, plus a treasure trove of attractions, things to do, food to savor, and guided tours around the festival locations. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, this festival is calling your name—let’s dive in!

Why Lisbon’s Brazilian Festival in September 2025 is a Must

I’ve always loved how Lisbon weaves its rich heritage with global influences, and this September 2025 festival is a perfect example. Inspired by the Lavagem de Santo António—a traditional cleansing ritual tied to Saint Anthony, Lisbon’s patron saint—this event infuses Brazilian samba rhythms and cultural traditions into the city’s streets. Set against the backdrop of mild September weather (around 18-24°C, 64-75°F), it’s an ideal time to explore outdoors without the summer crowds. Plus, with a mix of free and ticketed events, it’s accessible for everyone. The locations are steeped in history and charm, making it even more exciting—I can’t wait to share what’s on offer!

Confirmed Events, Dates, Times, and Free Public Highlights

The festival kicks off with a series of events from September 18 to September 20, 2025, organized by the Museu de Lisboa. Here’s the lineup, with details on the vibrant locations:


  • Lavagem de Santo António Program (September 18-20, 2025, Various Locations):

    • This three-day celebration blends Portuguese and Brazilian traditions across multiple spots in Lisbon’s historic center, including Largo de Santo António à Sé and surrounding streets. The program runs throughout the weekend, with key activities like street performances and cultural displays open to the public for free. Check the Museu de Lisboa website for exact schedules as the date nears.

    Fado Dinner with Night Tour of Lisbon


    • Attractions and Things to Do:

      • Visit the nearby Sé Cathedral, a Gothic-Romanesque masterpiece with free entry to parts—its serene interior is a perfect contrast to the festival buzz.

      • Stroll to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for panoramic views of the Tagus River and Alfama rooftops, a peaceful spot to unwind.

      • Explore the Alfama District’s narrow alleys, where you can discover hidden art galleries or listen to spontaneous Fado music.




    • Things to Eat:

      • Grab a pastéis de nata (€2-€3) from Pastelaria Santo António near the square for a creamy, cinnamony treat.

      • Try sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines, €5-€7) from a street vendor during the festivities.


  • Lavagem de Santo António – Missa (Mass) (September 19, 2025, 5:00 PM, Igreja de Santo António):

    • Held at the Igreja de Santo António, a charming 18th-century church believed to be built on Saint Anthony’s birthplace, this mass starts at 5:00 PM. It’s free and open to the public, offering a spiritual experience with Brazilian influences.




    • Things to Eat:

      • Enjoy caldo verde (€4-€6) at a nearby café like O Pitéu da Graça for a warm, hearty soup.

      • Savor a ginginha (€1-€2), a cherry liqueur, from a local vendor for a festive sip.


    • Guided Tours:

      • Book a Santo António Heritage Tour (€25, 1.5 hours) starting at the church, delving into the saint’s life and the festival’s origins.

  • Book a Local Food Tour


  • Lavagem de Santo António – Samba (September 19, 2025, 5:00 PM, Largo de Santo António à Sé):

    • Following the mass, the rhythm heats up with a samba performance at 5:00 PM in Largo de Santo António à Sé, a lively square near the church. This free public event features live music and dance, showcasing Brazil’s vibrant culture.


    • Attractions and Things to Do:

      • Walk to the Arco da Rua Augusta, a 10-minute stroll, and take the lift (€2.50) to its viewpoint for a nighttime cityscape.

      • Visit the Praça do Comércio, Europe’s largest square, just 15 minutes away, to enjoy its grand arches and riverside ambiance.



    • Things to Eat:

      • Pick up chouriço assado (€5-€8) from a street stall for a smoky, spicy treat.

      • Try a bifana (€3-€5), a pork sandwich, from a nearby kiosk for a quick bite.


  • Desfile de Santo António (Saint Anthony Parade) (September 20, 2025, 10:00 AM, Starting at Largo de Santo António à Sé):

    • The festival culminates with a colorful parade on Sunday morning at 10:00 AM, starting at Largo de Santo António à Sé. Open to all, this free event features participants in traditional and Brazilian-inspired costumes, marching through the streets with music and energy.




    • Things to Eat:

      • Enjoy arroz de pato (€10-€15) at a nearby restaurant like Cantinho do Avillez for a rich duck rice dish.

      • Grab a queijada (€1-€2), a sweet cheese tart, from a local bakery for a post-parade treat.


    • Guided Tours:

      • Take a Parade Aftermath Tour (€18, 1.5 hours) starting at Praça do Comércio, tracing the parade route and its history.


  • Book a Local Food Tour


  • Filme Bembé – Mercado (Bembé Film and Market) (September 14, 2025, 3:00 PM, Museu de Lisboa – Palácio Pimenta):


    • Wrap up the weekend with a film screening and market at 3:00 PM at the Museu de Lisboa – Palácio Pimenta, a beautiful 17th-century palace in Campo Grande. The “Bembé” film explores Afro-Brazilian culture, followed by a market with local crafts and food—entry is free.



    • Attractions and Things to Do:

      • Stroll through the museum’s gardens, a tranquil oasis, or visit the Eduardo VII Park nearby for a scenic walk.

      • Check out the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, a 10-minute drive, with its world-class art exhibits (€10).


    • Things to Eat:

      • Sample pastéis de bacalhau (€3-€5), codfish cakes, from market stalls.

      • Enjoy a leitão assado (€12-€18) sandwich from a nearby eatery for a roasted pork delight.


    • Guided Tours:

      • Join a Museum and Park Tour (€15, 1 hour) starting at Palácio Pimenta, covering the palace’s history and garden highlights.


Additional Details and Tips

While the core events are free and public-friendly, some associated workshops or special performances might require tickets (details TBD—check the Museu de Lisboa site closer to September). The festival centers around the Largo de Santo António à Sé area, easily reachable by metro (Baixa-Chiado station) or a 10-minute walk from Rossio Square, where you can admire the ornate train station and grab a pastéis de nata. September’s mild weather means comfortable outdoor enjoyment, but I’d suggest a light jacket for evening events. Accessibility is decent, with flat paths around the church and museum, though the parade route might get crowded—arrive early! For parking, use the São Jorge lot (€1.50/hour) near the castle and walk 10 minutes, as streets will be busy.


Why You’ll Love Lisbon’s Brazilian Festival in September 2025

This festival is a beautiful fusion of Lisbon’s Saint Anthony devotion and Brazil’s lively spirit, and I’m thrilled to see it unfold in September 2025. With free events like the samba dance, parade, and film screening, it’s a wallet-friendly way to experience culture. The mild 18-24°C weather and manageable crowds (post-summer lull) make it even better, and the locations offer extra attractions like the Sé Cathedral and Praça do Comércio to enhance your trip. Plus, the food—sardinhas assadas, ginginha, and more—adds a delicious layer to the fun. Mark your calendar for September 12-14, book a spot in Alfama or Baixa, and join me in celebrating this unique blend of traditions. What are you most excited for? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear!







 
 
 

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