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Lisbon's Open Gardens Festival Unlocks Hidden Green Spaces for Free

Step into Lisbon's hidden oases this May. From royal courtyards to volunteer-led workshops, the festival turns the city into a lush, open-air playground.

The image shows a fountain in the middle of a park with people sitting on benches around it. The...
The image shows a fountain in the middle of a park with people sitting on benches around it. The fountain is surrounded by a railing and there are trees in the background. The sky is filled with clouds and the buildings of Lisbon can be seen in the distance.

Lisbon's Open Gardens Festival Unlocks Hidden Green Spaces for Free

Lisbon’s Open Gardens Festival returns for its 15th edition this May. Over two weekends, visitors can explore the city’s hidden green spaces, from historic palaces to community gardens. The event celebrates nature, volunteering, and local sustainability efforts—all for free. The festival runs on May 23, 24, 30, and 31, offering access to normally closed-off areas. These include private palaces, school gardens like Gil Vicente, and urban projects such as Quinta do Ferro and Rua Cidade de Manchester. Many sites will host gardening workshops where attendees can take part in hands-on activities.

This year’s programme focuses on diversity and community involvement. Volunteers play a key role, with their contributions highlighted across various initiatives. While entry is free, some workshops and guided tours require advance booking through the festival’s website. The closing celebration will take place at the Monteiro-Mor Botanical Park. The event will be curated by the Joy Food duo, marking the end of a festival that connects nature, culture, and local engagement.

The Open Gardens Festival invites residents and tourists to discover Lisbon’s secret green corners. With a mix of historic sites, educational projects, and volunteer-led activities, it aims to foster appreciation for urban nature. Registration for specific events remains open online.

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