Portugal Holidays - Freedom Day (Dia da Liberdade)

On April 25, residents of Portugal celebrate one of the most important holidays of their country - Freedom Day. This date is not accidental. It was on this day, back in 1974, that thousands of Portuguese took to the streets for the first time to protest against the rule of the brutal Antonio Salazar (and he was in power for forty years!). The so-called “carnation revolution” began. The signal to action was the song “Grandola, vila morena”, which was played on the radio. The rebellious citizens of Portugal demanded the adoption of the country's Constitution, the resignation of the dictator, the introduction of a multi-party system, that is, everyone wanted to rebuild society according to democratic principles. Where did the name “carnation revolution” come from? Firstly, residents went to protests with this flower in their hands (thus showing that they were determined), and, secondly, the revolution was practically bloodless. After all, the death toll was reduced to a minimum and amounted to only 4 people. This is despite the fact that such protests lasted about two years and covered not only the capital of Portugal - Lisbon, but all its cities, as well as the African colonies. When the rebels on the streets saw police or government troops, they handed them carnations. And they, as a sign of peaceful intentions, inserted these flowers into the muzzles of their guns. Since then, April 25 is a major public holiday, which the Portuguese celebrate with great pride and joy. Naturally, it's a day off. On this day, ceremonial rallies are held, Portugal's top officials give welcoming speeches, and after official events, mass festivities begin: concerts, fairs, competitions. Also in honor of Freedom Day, a bullfight is held. But unlike Spain, here it is absolutely bloodless. So, the Portuguese caballero goes out to the bull, sitting on a horse and under no circumstances will kill his opponent. A real knight!