What happens during Halloween in Lisbon?

Halloween, with its plastic fangs and fake blood, does not quite fit that mood. Still, Lisbon has decided to embrace this foreign tradition in its own way.

Where do people go to celebrate Halloween in Lisbon?

Go to Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré to see witches ordering cocktails, vampires smoking outside bars, and bartenders wearing skeleton makeup.

It is less about scary traditions and more about an excuse to gather, dress up, and take photos. Some bars put up fake cobwebs, some restaurants offer pumpkin-themed menus, and every year the costumes get slightly more elaborate.

It won’t be everywhere, but you will find your Halloween tribe. I have not seen any trick or treating in Lisbon.

Meanwhile, outside the city of Lisbon

When you visit the smaller towns and many areas in the Alentejo, you will notice a different attitude. Some people shake their heads at the idea of “foreign holidays” being imported. Others worry that this spooky holiday distracts from the Catholic meaning of All Saints’ Day. You won’t see trick-or-treating. Kids might wear a mask to school for fun, but many still prefer to respect All Saints Day and forget Halloween exists.

Kids in Lisbon have adopted the fun part the holiday

In Lisbon’s international schools and even in some local public schools, children might wear costumes, or a mask. Some expat neighborhoods have quietly adopted trick-or-treating.

What happens in Lisbon during Halloween

• Bars and clubs: Some may host parties while others may add a few discrete decorations just to be a bit more festive.
• Shops and bakeries: You may find a few places that sell Halloween-themed cakes and sweets, but it’s not the norm. Foreign markets may be your best bet if you are looking for specific things.
• International communities: This is where you will most likely find people who will celebrate all things spooky. Check out the expat Facebook groups and Meetup for information.
• Most Portuguese families will still keep November 1 as a quiet, reflective day and ignore the holiday altogether.

A mix of cultures, as always

Lisbon is pretty good at absorbing traditions and changing them to fit its mood. From Christmas markets and Valentine’s Day to now Halloween. In classic Lisbon style, it does not take things too seriously. You’ll get themed drinks, a few dramatic costumes, and then everyone goes for a pastel de nata.

Do you want to celebrate Halloween when you come to Lisbon?

You will enjoy Lisbon’s discreet way of enjoying a themed night, and you might find a few places that are more serious about their costumes and spookiness.

Where can you go for Halloween fun?

If you want to experience Lisbon’s version of this holiday, here are some good spots:

Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré These two neighborhoods are the most popular ones for bars and nightlife in Lisbon. You will see people on the streets, packed bars, and lots of drinking. Be attentive with your belongings at all times, especially on Halloween night when the streets can be crowded. It’s always best to stay in groups and be aware of your surroundings.

Príncipe Real and Santos These are trendy spots with smaller bars, lovely restaurants, and the nightlife is still rowdy but more discreet.

Expat Events Check out Facebook and Meetup groups.

November 1, a shift in mood

The next morning, the city slows down. It’s a good cultural contrast to witness.

Halloween silliness one night, quiet reflection the next day.

This is a deeply rooted tradition in Portugal, where families visit the graves of their loved ones and go to mass. If you are lucky, you may see a religious procession on the streets.

Quick FAQ, Halloween in Lisbon