First Nations Pavilion Withdraws from Folklorama Due to Wildfire Crisis; Brazilian Pavilion Rescheduled

The ongoing wildfire emergency across Manitoba has prompted significant changes to this year’s Folklorama Festival, including the official withdrawal of the First Nations Pavilion—a long-standing cultural fixture—and a rescheduling of the Brazilian Pavilion. The First Nations Pavilion made the difficult decision to step back from the event as wildfires continue to displace thousands and place immense strain on Indigenous communities.

Buffy Handel, Executive Director of Neemu-Egwah Inc., the organization behind the Pavilion, said the decision was not made lightly.

“We deeply value our longstanding relationship with Folklorama and the opportunity it provides to share Indigenous culture with the world,” Handel stated. “One of the first treaties amongst the original tribes prior to colonization was made with this in mind: ‘We all drink from the same cup.’ We, as Manitobans, must remember to care for one another in our own special way. Each of us holds the capacity to contribute to healing, safety, and well-being.”

Handel emphasized that with much of the province in a declared state of emergency, the focus of Neemu-Egwah must turn toward supporting the many evacuees, particularly those from Indigenous communities.

“Many evacuees are carrying the weight of trauma after being forced to leave their homes,” she said. “In this moment, it is essential that space, safety, and extra care be given to those most affected.”

Folklorama Executive Director Teresa Cotroneo voiced support for the decision, noting the difficult but necessary prioritization of community well-being.

“While we’re disappointed that the First Nations Pavilion won’t be part of our Festival this year, we stand with them in their decision,” Cotroneo said. “The wildfire situation is having a tremendous impact on our neighbours and the well-being of those affected must come first.”

As part of emergency response efforts, another change will affect the Brazilian Pavilion, which was originally scheduled for Week One of the Festival (August 3–9) on the third floor of the RBC Convention Centre’s south building. That location is now being repurposed by the province to house evacuees. In response, the Brazilian Pavilion will shift to Week Two (August 10–16) and move to the second floor of the RBC Convention Centre’s north building.

“Since learning of the province’s needs for the RBC Convention Centre, we’ve worked closely with the Brazilian Pavilion’s organizers to ensure they could remain part of this year’s Festival,” Cotroneo explained. “Moving to a different week comes with logistical challenges, and we’re incredibly grateful for their flexibility. We’ll continue to support them every step of the way.”

While the adjustments bring change to the Folklorama experience this summer, organizers and community leaders are urging the public to stand in solidarity with those affected by the crisis. Festival officials encourage Winnipeggers and visitors alike to support displaced families and recognize the importance of cultural celebration in times of hardship.

The 2025 Folklorama Festival, celebrating multiculturalism across Manitoba, will continue as scheduled from August 3 to 16, with updated programming and pavilion schedules to be posted on the official website.