The History of the Popular Saints
Tradition, Faith and Festivities in the Streets of Portugal The Popular Saints are one of the most vibrant and beloved celebrations in Portugal, especially marking the month of June with parties, music, dances and a strong connection to religious tradition. In several cities and villages across the country, the streets come alive with fireworks, popular marches and, of course, the famous grilled sardines. But what is the origin of this unique festival?
The Origin of the Popular Saints
The origin of the Popular Saints dates back to the devotion to three saints: Saint Anthony, Saint John and Saint Peter, whose feasts are celebrated, respectively, on the 13th, 24th and 29th of June. Although their roots are in the Catholic Church, the Popular Saints have transcended religiosity, becoming a popular and secular festival, rooted in Portuguese folklore and regional traditions.
Saint Anthony: The Matchmaker Saint
The feast of Saint Anthony, celebrated on June 13, is especially popular in Lisbon, where most of the festivities take place. Saint Anthony is known as the “Matchmaker Saint”, and tradition holds that young women who pray to Saint Anthony are able to find their match. In addition, the streets are filled with popular marches, traditional dances and, of course, the iconic grilled sardines. People also usually get engaged, a custom where small gifts are exchanged, such as basil (an aromatic plant), symbolizing union and good luck.
São João: The Night Festival
The São João festival, celebrated on June 24th, is one of the most emblematic in the north of Portugal, especially in Porto. The celebration is marked by the São João balloon, the luminaries, the fireworks and the traditional exchange of plastic hammers, with which people hit each other in fun. São João is also a time for socializing in the streets, where people share the famous sardines and caldo verde, typical dishes of this time of year. It is a festival of light, color and lots of fun, where the arrival of summer and the community are celebrated.
Saint Peter: The Guardian of the Festivities
The feast of Saint Peter, on June 29, marks the end of the celebrations of the Popular Saints. Although less celebrated in some regions, Saint Peter is also an important figure,
especially in inland areas of Portugal. The tradition is more discreet, but the festival is still lively with dancing, popular music and, of course, the traditional sardines.
The Legacy of the Popular Saints
The Popular Saints are a manifestation of faith and popular culture, a moment of unity between communities. The celebrations, which begin in Lisbon and spread throughout the country, are a true explosion of colours, sounds and flavours. Traditional music, dances, marches and typical dishes make the Popular Saints, above all, a celebration of sharing and conviviality.
In addition, these saints have a deep symbolism in the lives of the Portuguese, who, for centuries, have linked faith to these festivities, often in a context of joy and celebration of life, rather than simple religious rituals.
Conclusion
The Popular Saints are more than just a religious festival: they are a true expression of Portuguese identity and culture. With their traditions rooted in history, beliefs and community spirit, these festivities continue to be celebrated with enthusiasm by everyone, from generation to generation. And anyone who has danced in the streets, tasted sardines and felt the contagious energy of the festivities knows that the Popular Saints are one of the greatest manifestations of joy and tradition in Portugal.
In June, the streets come to life in a special way, where faith, culture and festivities come together to celebrate the best of our history and traditions.