During the dictatorial regime of the Estado Novo from 1933 until the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974, June 10 was celebrated as “Race Day: the Portuguese race or the Portuguese”.
After the revolution of April 25, 1974, which marked the end of the dictatorial regime of the Estado Novo, the celebration of the day began to pay tribute to Portugal, Camões and the Portuguese Communities.
As Camões was an emblematic figure, associated with the Discoveries, it was used as a way for the regime to celebrate colonial territories and the feeling of belonging to a great nation spread throughout the world, with a common race and language.
The 10th of June is stipulated as a public holiday, following the legislative work after the implantation of the Republic on 5 October 1910. In the course of these legislative works, a decree was published on 12 October, which defined the national holidays.
The 10th of June started out as just a municipal holiday to become particularly exalted with the Estado Novo. It was from that period that Camões’ day began to be celebrated at national level.
Until the 25th of April, the 10th of June was known as the Day of Camões, of Portugal and of the Race, the last epithet created by Salazar at the inauguration of the National Stadium of Jamor in 1944. From 1978 this day is designated as Day of Portugal, Camões and the Portuguese Communities.
On this day, the President of the Republic and senior figures of the State participate in ceremonies to commemorate the Day of Portugal, Camões and the Portuguese Communities, which take place in different cities every year. Annually new individuals are distinguished for their work on behalf of the nation.
