An explosion left the first Festa do Avante!, held 50 years ago, without lights on the eve of the event's opening. The incident caused a blackout in the festival facilities, but the organization assured that "there is no bomb," reassuring participants and staff present.
Despite the scare caused by the explosion and the lack of energy, the first edition of Festa do Avante! was not stopped by the incident. The event managed to go forward and open its doors to the public as planned.
Festa do Avante! is a traditional event organized by the Portuguese Communist Party, which at that time was holding its first edition. The explosion episode, although dramatic, did not prevent the party from becoming a landmark in the event's history, which would celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.
