United in Collaboration, Commemorating, Engaging in Struggle

The annual "Festa do Avante!" political-cultural event, the largest of its kind in Portugal, marked its 50th edition this year. Held since 1976, this traditional political kick-off after the summer break takes place over three days along the Tagus River in the Lisbon area, attracting people from all generations.

Organized and executed by thousands of volunteers, members, and sympathizers of the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and its youth wing, JCP, the event features an entire city of stands and pavilions adorned with flags and slogans. The main stage, named the "25 de Abril," after the date of the fall of fascism in Portugal in 1974, serves as the focal point for concerts, open-air cinema, poetry slams, theater performances, and a large sports festival.

Around the clock, various genres of music echo through the festival grounds, while exhibitions focusing on history, science, and visual arts, as well as debates tackling current political issues, provide intellectual stimulation. Regions of Portugal, as well as dozens of international parties and movements from Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, present themselves at the event, fostering a global sense of unity.

This year's main themes include the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the current leftist struggle against a policy of escalation and confrontation. At the festival's opening, PCP chairman Paulo Raimundo called on the Portuguese government to recognize Palestine unconditionally, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people in the face of the Gaza war.

The communists in the national parliament, with three seats, are vehemently criticizing reforms planned by the bourgeois government that aim to curtail workers' rights. The communist party in Portugal is represented in the national parliament since the May elections.

As Portugal gears up for nationwide municipal elections on October 12, the "Festa do Avante!" offers a platform for political discourse and a glimpse into the ideologies that shape the nation's political landscape. The main event of the KP gathering will be a large rally in front of the main stage, "25 de Abril," on Sunday evening.

Looking ahead, the 50th edition of the "Avante!" press and people's festival is scheduled for the next year, promising another exciting and enlightening celebration of politics, culture, and solidarity.