Folklorama back in full swing

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This article was published 24/08/2022 (282 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

After two years of virtual festivals, Folkorama was finally able to return to its pre-pandemic activities this summer from July 31 to Aug. 13. Since it’s first year in 1970, Folkorama has been a staple of Winnipeg’s summer festival scene. Folkorama has come a long way since 1970, as it’s grown to become the world’s largest and longest-running multicultural festival. Pre-pandemic, Folkorama received over 400,000 visitors per year, many whom travelled from outside Manitoba for the festival. I’ve personally been eagerly awaiting Folkorama’s return, as it’s one of the highlights of my summer.

There were many amazing pavilions this year, which showcased various cultural groups from around the world. I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Ukraine-Kyiv, Tamil, Hungary, Egypt and Punjab pavilions, which were all unique in their own way. Unfortunately, it was impossible for me to attend all of the pavilions as there were 24 in total. I look forward to visiting more pavilions next year.

I loved the awesome dance performances at all pavilions, as well as the different kinds of food, the lovely music and the stylish attire worn by the performers. It was also very interesting to learn more about these different cultures and their unique languages through the cultural displays and performances. These pavilions really highlight how the wide diversity of cultures makes our province a fascinating place to live.

Folkorama is just one example of why I love to call Manitoba home. The festival highlights one of the best things about our province – the many different cultural groups that live in Manitoba. Folkorama brings people together and helps us learn more about different cultural groups from across the world. It gives us a greater understanding of other cultures, how each culture is different, but also how we are more alike than we realize. This festival plays an important role in helping build an inclusive and diverse community here in Manitoba.

I wanted to say thank you to all of the amazing volunteers that helped make Folkorama’s return to in person pavilions so successful. Whether it’s the volunteers handing out tickets, cooking the food, or performing on stage, the festival could not happen without you.

Please follow my Facebook page for updates. I can be reached via email at mintu.sandhu@yourmanitoba.ca or by phone at 204-417-3486 if you have any questions or concerns.

Mintu Sandhu
The Maples constituency report

Mintu Sandhu is the NDP MLA for The Maples.

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