Collaborating, commemorating, contending
Portugal's "Festa do Avante!" Kicks Off with a Political and Cultural Bash
Portugal is gearing up for a nationwide municipal election on October 12, but before that, the country will host its largest political-cultural event of the year - the "Festa do Avante!". This annual spectacle, organized by the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), will take place over three days along the Tagus River in the Lisbon area, starting from this weekend.
The event, which serves as the traditional political kick-off after the summer break, attracts regions of Portugal, international parties and movements from various continents. This year, the event will mark its 46th edition, and thousands of volunteers, members, and sympathizers of the PCP and its youth wing, JCP, have been working tirelessly to organize it.
The festival grounds will be filled with stands and pavilions adorned with flags and slogans, showcasing history, science, visual arts, and current political issues. Around the clock, concerts featuring a variety of music genres, open-air cinema, poetry slams, and theater performances will take place. A large sports festival is also part of the event.
At the festival's opening, PCP chairman Paulo Raimundo called on the government to recognize Palestine unconditionally. He stated that Portugal, as a sovereign country, does not need to coordinate such a step with anyone. This year, the main themes include the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the struggle of the left against a policy of escalation and confrontation, and solidarity with the Palestinian people in the face of the Gaza war.
Another highlight of the event will be a large rally in front of the main stage "25 de Abril" on Sunday evening. The Communists, represented in the national parliament since the May elections with three seats, strongly criticize reforms planned by the bourgeois government that aim to curtail workers' rights.
Next year will mark the 50th edition of the "Avante!" press and people's festival. With its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and strong political message, the "Festa do Avante!" continues to be a significant event in Portugal's cultural calendar.
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