On December 1st, which is the national holiday for the Restoration of Independence, Avenida da Liberdade will host the traditional National Parade of Philharmonic Bands , which this year will feature 33 formations from the north to the south of the country.
This will once again be a vibrant spectacle of culture and musical history, with 33 philharmonic groups marching down one of the capital’s main avenues, in an event that is already a reference in the national celebrations of this holiday.
Many of them are centenarian… and one of them is 300 years old!
Now in its 12th edition, this will not be a mere parade, but also a testimony to the richness and longevity of the philharmonic tradition in the country.
Proof of this can be seen in the various bands taking part, representing recreational associations and societies with deep roots in Portugal, many of which are centenarian… and even tricentenarian.
The highlight of the day will be a philharmonic band from Vila Nova de Gaia, the Associação Recreativa Os Mareantes do Rio Douro, which has an impressive 300-year history, keeping the tradition of the São Gonçalo festivities alive. It includes around 50 men and their group of drummers.
The grand finale: three hymns and a giant orchestra
The National Parade of Philharmonic Bands will begin at 3pm, next to the Monument to the Dead of the Great War, culminating at the emblematic Restauradores Square, where the excitement will reach its peak.
It will be here that the 33 bands unite for a joint and monumental interpretation of three pillars of Portuguese musical identity: the Maria da Fonte Anthem, the Restoration Anthem and the National Anthem, A Portuguesa.
This collective performance will be directed by Lieutenant Colonel António Manuel Cardoso Rosada, Head of the Air Force Music Band, and will also feature the special participation of PSP Tenor Pedro Tavares. This unique and grandiose moment promises to be the highlight, bringing together hundreds of musicians in a civic and artistic chorus.
The National Parade of Philharmonic Bands is co-organized by Movimento 1.º de Dezembro, Sociedade Histórica da Independência de Portugal, Lisbon City Council and EGEAC.
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