An informal group of poetry and arts enthusiasts in Lajes do Pico is preparing to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the birth of Luís de Camões (1525–1580), whose quincentennial commemorations will culminate on June 10, 2026.

Under the banner “Poetry Lives in Lajes,” the gathering will feature readings of Camões’ sonnets, traditional redondilhas, and selected passages from The Lusiads. The evening will also include musical accompaniment—because, as organizers note, poetry is music, and music itself is poetry.

The event aims to encourage renewed discovery, understanding, and reading of Camões’ work, moving beyond past ideological appropriations and reaffirming him as a universal cultural figure. Organizers emphasize his enduring relevance: a poet who bridges classical tradition and modern vision, and who remains one of the most unifying figures in Portuguese culture.

The celebration will take place on February 28 at 9 p.m. at the Municipal Auditorium of Lajes do Pico, with participation by the musical group As Vozes do JarDim.

Organizers invite the community to come listen, reflect, and experience an evening where poetry and music meet in tribute to one of the great voices of world literature.

From Municipality’s Press Release