41st FolkMonção – The World Dancing 2026
The international folklore festival FolkMonção returns in August 2026 with groups from ten countries, from August 1 to 9. The closing ceremony takes place at Monção's Campo da Feira with the emblematic Gala do Alvarinho, a grand celebration of world culture with free admission.
FolkMonção – O Mundo a Dançar (The World Dancing) celebrates its 41st edition in 2026, confirming its status as one of Portugal's most important international folklore festivals and a highlight of summer in the Alto Minho region. From August 1 to 9, Monção and neighbouring towns fill with music, colour, emotion and tradition, featuring performances by groups from ten countries: Armenia, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, the United States, Mexico, Portugal, Kenya, Serbia and Taiwan.
The official opening takes place on August 1 in Valença, at the Cortinas de S. Francisco, but Monção is the beating heart of the festival. Over more than a week, the international groups perform on stages across the municipality and in neighbouring Galicia, with shows usually starting at 10:00 pm. One of the most anticipated moments is the parade of groups through the streets of Monção on August 6, when traditional costumes from four continents fill the historic town centre in a contagious festive atmosphere.
The festival's grand finale is the Gala do Alvarinho, closing the event on August 9 at Monção's Campo da Feira from 9:30 pm. This emblematic venue offers around 5,000 seats plus ample standing room. This year's closing gala also features a special opening performance by Azeituna – the science students' tuna (traditional musical group) of the University of Minho.
More than just a folklore festival, FolkMonção is a true celebration of cultural exchange: throughout the event, participating groups live alongside the local community, sharing dances, songs and traditions passed down through generations. For anyone visiting the Alto Minho in summer, it is a unique opportunity to travel the world without leaving Monção, home of Alvarinho wine and remarkable historic heritage.
Admission is free for all performances, making this a perfect event for families and travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Take the opportunity to explore Monção's historic centre, taste the famous Alvarinho wine and Minho cuisine, and enjoy the banks of the Minho river on warm August days.
