Portugal Day: June 10th 2026

The National Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese communities, or simply Portugal Day is celebrated on June 10th every year. It is a public holiday, meaning all public services, except emergency services should be closed.

Why does Portugal Day exist?

The date was chosen to mark the death of an important Portuguese writer: Luis Vaz de Camões. He died on June 10th, 1580 and is widely regarded as Portugal’s greatest poet. His epic poem, taught in Portuguese schools and called Os Lusíadas, celebrates Portugal’s history, maritime exploration, and cultural identity.

Because of his contribution to Portuguese language, this holiday honors both Camões and the broader achievements of Portugal. The day also recognizes the millions of Portuguese living abroad and Portuguese Communities.

What happens on Portugal Day?

• Official state ceremonies by the President
• Military parades and flag-raising ceremony
• Concerts, poetry reading, and other cultural performances with the theme Portugal and Camões in mind.
• Community festivals featuring Portuguese music, food and traditions
• Celebrations by the Portuguese diaspora around the world

What is happening on Portugal Day 2026?

• Official State Ceremonies will be held in Azores. It is the 50th anniversary of the constitutional establishment of Regional Autonomy of Azores and Madeira.
• The President of the Republic is on Terceira Island, where he will preside over the military ceremonies in Angra do Heroísmo. These are the first such ceremonies of António José Seguro’s presidential term.
• The flag-raising ceremony will happen around 3 PM

Over the weekend, ahead of the celebrations in Portugal, the President marked Portugal Day abroad, alongside Portuguese emigrants and people of Portuguese descent in Luxembourg. He was accompanied by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro.

Fun fact: A report published by the Luxembourg government indicates that Portuguese nationals are the largest foreign community residing in the country (12.8% of the total population).

Then, on Thursday, the president will be in Madeira, where he will present awards during the celebrations.