Festival excitement permeates the summer air in Lisbon, as the city shimmers with longing for music and dance.
Lisbon, Portugal, is gearing up for an unforgettable summer in 2025, with a vibrant lineup of festivals that cater to a wide range of musical tastes. From cool jazz to indie beats, Lisbon's festivals promise a rich and diverse musical experience.
Kicking off the summer season is the MEO KALORAMA festival, running from June 19 to 21. This three-day event, held in Parque da Bela Vista, boasts a diverse range of music genres with a focus on musical diversity. Notable acts include Pet Shop Boys, FKA Twigs, Jorja Smith, Sevdaliza, Azealia Banks, and many national talents. The festival features more than 40 artists performing across three stages, with doors opening daily at 4 PM and closing at 3 AM. Tickets start at €55 for daily passes and €105 for general passes.
MEO KALORAMA prides itself on combining music, art, and sustainability, making it an ideal event to coincide with the summer solstice. For those planning to attend, venue maps and transport information are available for attendees.
Following MEO KALORAMA, Lisbon's summer continues with the NOS Alive festival from July 10 to 12. Held at Passeio Marítimo de Algés in Oeiras, this festival offers an eclectic mix of music genres, including pop, rock, country, folk, dance, and alternative. The lineup includes Olivia Rodrigo, Muse, Nine Inch Nails, The Wombats (replacing Sam Fender), Justice, Anyma, Benson Boone, Mark Ambor, Finneas, and CMAT. Known for its diverse genre-spanning lineup and seaside location, NOS Alive is one of Europe's respected festivals.
Lisbon's summer festivities extend beyond just music. The Festival of the Iberian Mask, also known as the Lisbon Summer Carnival, takes place from September 18 to 21. This cultural event features parades, workshops, concerts, and artisanal markets. Highlights include traditional music, dance shows, and multicultural participation from Spain and Colombia. Most events are free, with some workshops requiring registration.
In addition to these festivals, Lisbon offers other attractions. The yellow tram No. 28 winds through the city's historic neighborhoods, providing nostalgic rides with the best views of the city by the Tejo. The Lisboa Card offers access to over 50 museums, castles, and sights, making public transportation a stage for discoveries, encounters, and spontaneous adventures.
For those planning to visit Lisbon, direct flights, trains, and car travel are all options. Europe Guide Travel City Trip is a resource for city trips, providing valuable information for travellers.
In summary, Lisbon's summer 2025 offers a rich musical palette with MEO KALORAMA focusing on diversity and national/international artists in June, and NOS Alive in July showcasing a broad spectrum of genres with prominent global stars. The Festival of the Iberian Mask in September adds a cultural and festive flair to close the season.
Attendees of the MEO KALORAMA festival can expect a unique blend of music, art, and sustainability, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a different lifestyle experience. After the MEO KALORAMA festival, music enthusiasts can look forward to the NOS Alive festival, featuring diverse genres and renowned global artists, offering another fantastic travel opportunity.