Lisbon’s grandest boulevard is entering a party-based state of transformation as workers begin the final preparations for the city’s ultimate night of parading. On the evening of 12 June, the elegant Avenida da Liberdade will trade its high-end luxury fashion and quiet tree canopy for a vibrant explosion of colour, music, and tradition during the legendary Marchas Populares parade. The crown jewel of the month-long Santos Populares festivities.

It is truly fascinating to watch the avenue being rigged with massive sound systems, grandstand seating, and brilliant overhead light displays that will frame the competition. Different historic neighbourhoods, from Alfama to Santos, will march down the boulevard in a great display of choreography, elaborate costumes, and traditional music. To stroll down the pavement right now, to the sounds of construction, is almost like the noise before the storm. Yet as the occasion is such a joyous one. Many workers themselves build up the decorations happily.