This public holiday is recognised throughout Portugal and celebrates the Carnation Revolution which brought an almost bloodless end to 48 years of Fascist rule under Antonio de Oliveira Salazar. The name 'Carnation Revolution' derives from the fact that those who brought about the change carried red carnations and achieved their political goals without the use of violence. As the story goes, Fascist soldiers exchanged their bullets and weapons for the carnations which brought about the end of the dictatorship and welcomed in a democratic government. However, the 25 April is not marked by ostentatious celebrations and is a relatively subdued day when many shops and businesses remain closed.

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All day.