Folklorama

Almost half of Manitoba’s population has roots in over sixty different ethnic areas and countries of the world, with roughly half of the population being a visible minority. This has made the province a marvellous mosaic of cultures.

To celebrate this unique diversity, more than forty of those groups participate in Folklorama, an event that began in the 1970s and has continued ever since, to show the world the cultural gold mine that is Manitoba.

At each “pavilion,” each ethnic group offers a showcase of traditional dance and music, special entertainment featuring everything from hunting weapons to homemaking tools along with traditional clothing and housewares.

Most popular is the wide variety of ethnic foods.

Nearly half a million visitors may attend the pavilions during the two-week festival in late July and early August in Winnipeg. It is a terrific way for each of us to learn about and appreciate each other’s heritage and is a significant contributor to our reputation as a friendly and welcoming province.