Manitoba’s annual cultural extravaganza is now underway for the 54th season.
Folklorama runs from Aug. 3 to 16 with 43 ethno-cultural pavilions showcasing their heritage over the two-week run.
At a special sneak-peek event held at The Leaf last week, organizers and ambassadors shared highlights of this year’s much-anticipated festival.
Teresa Cotroneo, Folklorama’s executive director, drew attention to two brand new offerings this year.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Mabuhay Philippine Pavilion in Week 1 and the Modern Chinese Pavilion in Week 2. We also have several returning favourites that are back after taking a year or more off that include Argentina Tango, Budapest-Hungaria, Africa, Métis, as well as Pabellón de España-Spain Pavilion and Pavilion Canadien-Français,” she said.
“A couple pavilions are celebrating milestone anniversaries this year — Pavilion of Scotland celebrating an incredible 50 years, Tamil Pavilion celebrating 25 years and Celtic Ireland Pavilion celebrating its 20th anniversary.”
She also noted that due to the wildfire situation affecting northern communities, organizers of the First Nations Pavilion made a difficult decision to withdraw from this year’s festival.
“We are partnering with Neemu-Egwah to arrange for some tours for evacuees who are currently staying at local shelters. Together with Buffy Handel, executive director of Neemu-Egwah, we’ll be offering a couple evenings each week where we’ll provide transportation, admission, food and beverage for youth and senior groups to experience the festival,” Cotroneo said.
“The power of culture to uplift, connect and bring joy — that’s what Folklorama is all about, creating moments of celebration, understanding and unity.”
Languages, arts and customs continue to be nurtured in Manitoba and woven into the culture across generations.
“When you visit a pavilion, you feel the love and pride that our communities pour into sharing their heritage,” she said. “It’s really a beautiful reflection of who we are collectively.”
Thanks to the support of partners and funders, Folklorama continues to be one of the most affordable summer events in Manitoba. Admission is free for kids age 12 and under, and general admission is $7.50 plus fees. VIP tours and group multi-pack pricing are also available.
“The festival truly has something for everyone no matter what you’re after, be it captivating performances, colourful cultural displays, Instagram-worthy photo ops, kids’ activities, late night parties,” Cotroneo said.
“And, of course, let’s not forget about the food — no cooking required for two weeks. So just plan your pavilion-hopping for appetizers, dinner and desserts and you’re all set.”
At last week’s event, McPhillips MLA JD Devgan brought greetings on behalf of the province. He also recalled how he attended Folklorama’s cultural celebrations as a child. Now he’s enjoying the experience of seeing his younger cousins, nieces and nephews performing in pavilions where he used to perform.
“We know that Folklorama is the largest multicultural programming of its sort in the world. There is nothing like this in any other city replicated at this scale and this level,” he said.
“By attending different pavilions and going to different cultural shows, I broadened my horizons of the world. I’m a big champion of Folklorama. We know how important it is to our community.”
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham said Folklorama is a wonderful way to experience the world and celebrate the diversity of our community.
“In the two fun weeks of Folklorama, the volunteers make it happen, whether they’re performing or serving the great food and being great hosts to all the pavilions,” he added.
“My message to all Manitobans is to please take the opportunity to come and enjoy Folklorama this year.”
Similarly, Folklorama board president Kim Ly expressed appreciation for the volunteers as well as all the behind-the-scenes planning that takes place year-round.
“The Folklorama festival is such a great way to discover and celebrate the vibrant and diverse communities that make up our beautiful city,” Ly said.
“I’d also like to note that the proceeds from each pavilion go back to that community so the next generation can appreciate, learn and preserve the traditions, customs and recipes that make up their beautiful culture.”
The event at The Leaf wrapped up with a toe-tapping performance by siblings Jacob and Cienna Harris of the Asham Stompers, who will be part of the Métis Pavilion during Week 1.
To learn more about Folklorama, visit Folklorama.ca/festival.
