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April 25th of every year marks the commemoration of the Portugal’s Carnation Revolution. The latter was a non-violent rebellion that put an end to a 50-year long dictatorship. It took place on 25th April 1974. Consequently, democracy was re-established in Portugal, and April 25 was christened ‘Freedom Day.’ It is a national holiday, but Lisbon’s celebration is the most prominent.

This year’s celebration will mark the 50th anniversary since the military coup brought an end to the autocratic Estado Novo regime. The revolution was peaceful, as soldiers took to the streets in opposition against the government. A restaurant owner gave them carnations to put on their uniforms and firearms to indicate it was non-violent hence the name. 

The Estado Novo (New State) regime was in power at the time, and was marked by fascist, autocratic and anti-communist ideals. People were prohibited from criticizing the government, which was also in support of colonialism.

This military coup overthrew the regime, ushering in democracy. The first parliamentary elections were held in 1976, and Mario Soares became Portugal’s first democratically elected prime minister.

In commemorating the event, most businesses close on April 25th. Events such as the Dias da Memoria (Days of Memory), musical concerts in the city squares and documentary film screenings in museums, also mark the day’s celebration. Lisbon’s parks, particularly Parque Eduardo VIIalso often host free concerts and events.

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This year, Lisbon celebration events will begin on April 24th at 10 pm with a video mapping at Terreiro do Paço. This will be followed by an orchestra and choir concert. There will also be fireworks and a drone show. On 25th, a military parade will take place in the same location. Dance, music, poetry and parades are expected to grace most streets in the country’s cities.