Óbidos, Portugal – What began as a whimsical idea among friends during the isolating days of the Coronavirus lockdown has blossomed into a thriving reality, now capturing the attention of UK television audiences. The Prohibition Bar, a unique establishment in the historic town of Óbidos, is the focus of a week-long feature on the popular Channel 4 program, "A New Life in the Sun."

Five years ago, the concept of a clandestine bar seemed like a distant fantasy. Today, the Prohibition Bar stands as a testament to the power of shared vision and determination. This remarkable journey, from a lockdown dream to a bustling hotspot, is being chronicled for millions of viewers.

"A New Life in the Sun," known for showcasing the challenges and triumphs of individuals starting businesses abroad, has followed the Prohibition Bar's development closely. Having previously featured the location, producers were intrigued by the ambitious project to revitalize the dilapidated building. The program attracts over three million viewers weekly, offering a glimpse into the lives of those seeking a fresh start in sunnier locales.

The Prohibition Bar's story is particularly unique due to its innovative ownership structure. Over 70 Portuguese and international shareholders pooled their resources to finance and rebuild the venue, creating a collaborative model unprecedented in Portugal. This collective effort is a central theme of the television series.

The week-long series, airing daily at 4 pm between Monday, February 10th, and Friday, February 14th, will take viewers behind the scenes of the bar's transformation. From the initial renovations in April 2024 to the successful launch of last summer's original music festival, the program promises to reveal the highs, lows, and unexpected dramas encountered along the way. Viewers can anticipate seeing the dedication and passion that fueled this remarkable undertaking.

Richard Allen, the bar's events director, expressed his excitement about sharing their story with the world. "This first year has been a true labor of love, and we are incredibly proud of what our shared vision has achieved," Allen stated. "Having this journey documented for television has been an incredible experience. We're thrilled to share the story of our bar with the world and with so many people giving their time and talents to this project. We can’t wait to find out who’s made the final cut!” The series promises to be a compelling narrative of community, resilience, and the realization of a dream against all odds.