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Get ready to celebrate Freedom Day in Portugal on April 25! This national holiday commemorates the peaceful revolution that took place in 1974, which put an end to a dictatorship and restored democracy in the country. It is a day of great importance for the Portuguese people, as it represents their fight for freedom and their determination to create a better future for themselves and their country. On this day, you can expect to see parades, concerts, and other festivities celebrating the values of liberty and democracy. So let's join in on the celebration and honor the courage of those who fought for freedom on this special day!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1926</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Dictatorship Begins</div><div class='timeline-text'>A military coup in Portugal establishes a right-wing dictatorship, known as Estado Novo, under António de Oliveira Salazar.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1961</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Colonial War Commences</div><div class='timeline-text'>Portugal engages in a colonial war to maintain its African colonies, further polarizing the nation and leading to increased opposition towards the Estado Novo regime.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1974</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Carnation Revolution</div><div class='timeline-text'>On April 25, the Carnation Revolution takes place, a bloodless military coup that ends the Estado Novo regime and starts the process of democratization in Portugal.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1975</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>New Constitution</div><div class='timeline-text'>Portugal establishes a new constitution, formally ending the colonial war and affirming its commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1986</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>EU Membership</div><div class='timeline-text'>Portugal joins the European Community (now the European Union), symbolizing its successful transition to democracy and alignment with democratic Western Europe.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a local parade</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Many towns and cities in Portugal have parades on Freedom Day, celebrating the country's independence. Attend one of these parades to experience the joy and pride of the Portuguese people.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Visit historical landmarks</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Take a tour of important historical landmarks related to Portugal's independence, such as the Monument to the Discoveries or the Castle of São Jorge. Learn about the country's rich history and pay tribute to its freedom fighters.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Try traditional Portuguese food</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine on Freedom Day. From bacalhau (salted cod) to pastéis de nata (custard tarts), there are many dishes to try and savor. You can also attend a food festival or cooking class to learn how to make these dishes yourself.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Watch a fireworks display</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Many cities in Portugal have fireworks displays on Freedom Day, symbolizing the country's independence and freedom. Find out where the nearest display is and enjoy the dazzling show with friends and family.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Participate in a cultural event</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Check out events happening in your community, such as concerts, art exhibitions, or dance performances, that celebrate Portuguese culture and heritage. These events are a great way to learn more about the country and its people.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It celebrates Portugal's independence</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Freedom Day, also known as Portugal's Independence Day, commemorates the end of Portuguese rule in Africa and East Timor. This holiday is an important reminder of the country's struggles for independence and the sacrifices made by its people.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It honors the history and culture of Portugal</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>On Freedom Day, many events and parades are held to celebrate traditional Portuguese customs, food, and music. It's a great opportunity to learn more about the country's rich history and vibrant culture, and to appreciate all that it has to offer.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It fosters national pride and unity</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Freedom Day is a time for Portuguese citizens to come together and celebrate their shared heritage. It promotes a sense of national pride and unity, as well as appreciation for the country's diversity and progress since gaining independence.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Freedom Day marks the end of a 48-year-long dictatorship</h3><p class='facts-content'>The Carnation Revolution that happened on April 25, 1974, ended the Second Republic or Estado Novo regime, which was the longest dictatorship in Europe, lasting for 48 years.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>The revolution was largely bloodless</h3><p class='facts-content'>Despite overthrowing a dictatorship, the Carnation Revolution was mostly peaceful, with only four civilian casualties recorded. This made it a standout among other violent revolts during the same period.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Carnations became a symbol of the revolution</h3><p class='facts-content'>During the final stages of the revolution, carnations were put into rifle muzzles and on uniforms as the soldiers joined the coup. Since then, carnations have become a symbol of the peaceful rebellion and therefore the name "Carnation Revolution."</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Portuguese immigrants also celebrate Freedom Day</h3><p class='facts-content'>Portuguese communities abroad also celebrate Freedom Day, showing the profound impact of this day on Portuguese identity, regardless of location. This practice strengthens cultural ties and promotes the shared celebration among Portuguese globally.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Freedom Day was a turning point for decolonization in Africa</h3><p class='facts-content'>The overthrow of Estado Novo led to the accelerated decolonization in Portuguese Africa. By the end of 1975, all of Portugal's African colonies were independent, marking a significant shift in the continent's political landscape.</p></div></div>
Portugal Freedom Day is celebrated on April 25 every year. In 2024 Portugal Freedom Day will occur on a Thursday.
2023
Apr 25
Tuesday
2024
Apr 25
Thursday
2025
Apr 25
Friday
2026
Apr 25
Saturday
2027
Apr 25
Sunday
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