Pavilion of Portugal: A Cultural Treasure at Folklorama 2025

By: Donovan R. Martin Sr. Editor-in-Chief

Buckle up, Winnipeg—because if you’re looking for culture, extraordinary food, and a dazzling display of heritage that transports you straight to the vibrant soul of Europe, then the Pavilion of Portugal is where you must be. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re no longer in Manitoba—you’ve just landed on the sunny shores and bustling streets of Portugal.

The atmosphere is nothing short of electric. The venue is adorned so beautifully, it’s as if you’re walking through the port towns and beachside neighborhoods of Portugal. And it’s only fitting—this year’s theme is Port, representing the flowing waters, deep history, and enduring spirit of a seafaring nation.

And oh, what a cultural display! Truly one of the most breathtaking we’ve seen across all of Folklorama. At the center stood a gorgeous setup symbolizing a historic Portuguese port—complete with a large river, a handcrafted floating boat, and a sweeping bridge etched against a panoramic backdrop of Porto. The details were extraordinary and every element told a part of the story—how Portugal’s identity is shaped by its waters, its ports, and the people who moved through them.

But perhaps the most unforgettable part of the cultural display was the exhibit on the Lello Library, a jewel in Porto’s crown. If you didn’t know about this stunning library before, you’ll never forget it after hearing the incredible backstory. A passionate and knowledgeable volunteer took the time to walk us through the space and shared an amazing tidbit: the iconic Lello Library actually inspired key visuals in the Harry Potter series. That’s right—J.K. Rowling lived in Portugal while writing the first book, and echoes of Portuguese culture are found in everything from the flowing cloaks to the Gothic woodwork and winding staircases at Hogwarts. Suddenly, the magic makes even more sense!

And speaking of magic—everywhere you turned, volunteers were willing to engage, teach, and immerse you in Portugal’s proud traditions. One standout was adult ambassador Dina, dressed in beautiful cultural attire, greeting every guest with a glowing smile. Her deep knowledge and warmth made everyone feel welcome and informed, as if we were guests in her own home.

We also had the pleasure of speaking with Sandra Clemente, one of the pavilion’s dedicated board members, who reminded us what Folklorama is really about: the people behind the scenes. Every dancer, every performer, every person working the kitchen or managing the stage—all volunteers. And they are the heart and soul of this incredible showcase.

And speaking of hearts and souls—there wasn’t a dry eye in the room when a young singer, flown in all the way from Portugal, took the stage. Her voice was captivating. She serenaded the crowd with several traditional folk songs that filled the room with pride, nostalgia, and goosebumps.

But let’s talk about the stars of the night: the dancers. This was no ordinary performance. This was world-class artistry—high energy, show-stopping, foot-stomping, skirt-twirling, full-throttle joy. The choreography was intricate, explosive, and delivered with a passion that can only come from years of dedicated practice. These performers didn’t just dance—they told stories with every stomp and spin. And for anyone who thinks performing is easy, just watching the spins and jumps was dizzying enough. Doing it at that level? Absolutely awe-inspiring.

Of course, none of this magic would flow so seamlessly without the MCs and hosts—who, honestly, could have been headliners themselves. They kept the crowd buzzing, shared fun facts, cracked jokes, and even jumped into a few dances. Their energy was contagious and set the tone for a night of pure celebration.

And what’s Folklorama without a little audience participation? No one—and we mean no one—does it better than the Pavilion of Portugal. From jigging on stage to clapping along to traditional beats, the audience was never just watching the show—they were in it.

To put it simply, the Pavilion of Portugal is not just a stop on your Folklorama passport—it’s a destination. An immersive, joyful, unforgettable experience that offers food, music, stories, and soul. Whether you’re Portuguese, part-Portuguese, or just a lover of culture and connection, this is a place where you’ll feel at home.

So bring your appetite, your dancing shoes, and your curiosity—because the Pavilion of Portugal is waiting to dazzle you. A Folklorama must-see in 2025.