Andorran Casa de Portugal Group Performs at Vila Praia de Âncora's 50th Anniversary

The Casa de Portugal folklore group from Andorra performed Saturday evening at a special showcase in Vila Praia de Âncora, Portugal, as part of the Etnográfico de Vila Praia de Âncora's 50th anniversary celebrations in the Alto Minho region.

The event, titled *Uma Família, Muitos Trajes*, brought together Portuguese and Andorran performers for a parade of traditional Viana do Castelo costumes, regional dances, and cultural exchanges. It took place at the Cine Teatro dos Bombeiros, starting at 10 p.m., and also featured the Rancho das Lavradeiras de Carreço—Portugal's oldest folklore group and godparent to the hosts. The Etnográfico group, in turn, acts as godparent to the Andorran ensemble, reflecting their longstanding bond.

The trip marked a homecoming for many Casa de Portugal members, who trace their roots to the Viana do Castelo area and learned their dances there decades ago before emigrating to Andorra. It reciprocated the Portuguese group's visit to Andorra in early May for the *Danses del Món* festival, hosted by Casa de Portugal during its own 30th anniversary year.

Sunday's program included cultural visits and shared activities along the Atlantic coast, allowing participants to reconnect with traditions and strengthen ties across generations. The gathering highlighted shared Portuguese heritage, with subtle variations in style underscoring how customs evolve while preserving their core.