International Iberic Mask Festival takes off
For four days, from May 17-20, the International Iberic Mask Festival gives passers by in downtown Lisbon the opportunity to get to know about ancient traditions and offers a varied programme which includes gastronomy, crafts and concerts.
The highlight of the festival is the Iberic mask parade on Saturday May 19, in which over 30 groups of participants march wearing colourful traditional masks made of natural materials.
The parade will include the group Boi Tinga from Brasil, the Mummers from Ireland and the Gigantones and Cabeçudos from the Portuguese region of Viana de Castelo.
Portuguese bands Toques de Caramulo and Realejo will be playing over the weekend and between May 14-18 there will be a number of debates taking place at the National Museum of Archeology and also cinema screenings at the Latin American House.
