It is a folkloric adventure that began in Tarascon-sur-Ariège 50 years ago, during an exhibition at the Saint Joseph School. In 1973, a group of friends decided to honor their indigenous traditions, introducing enthusiasts to dances and songs such as “Fado,” an authentic Portuguese music designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2011.
Thus, the nostalgia of a handful of Portuguese immigrants brings to life the dances and songs of the country from which many fled: “I arrived in Ariege 52 years ago with my father and it was to escape poverty. At that time, we went through difficult circumstances.” mountains, and my father had a three-week trip before arriving in France,” recalls Jean Maciel, head of the Portuguese folk group.
An association open to everyone
“I am proud as President because I recently succeeded in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Folklore Group. It is already a group that highlights Portugal, but not only that, we also want to represent Tarascón sur Ariège.”
Between culture and tradition, today the Portuguese Folk Group has around fifty members who meet regularly to promote the culture of their country of origin: “The group is open to all people who wish to – Portuguese or not – c “We would be pleased to introduce them to our local traditions.”
As is the case every year, the popular band meets the public in the end-of-year show that will take place on Saturday evening from nine o’clock in the evening: “There will be traditional dances and songs,” confirms the association’s president. This show also aims to thank the people who participated in the group’s fiftieth anniversary, as You will be offered a friendly drink at the end.
