Three Portuguese Folk Groups Unite for Historic Janeiras in Andorra

Three Portuguese folk groups performed together for the first time in Andorra on Saturday, delivering a joint rendition of Janeiras—traditional Lusitanian songs welcoming the new year—at Sant Esteve church in Andorra la Vella.

The event marked a milestone for the Grup de Folklore Casa de Portugal, which has organized Janeiras in the Principality for 19 years to extend the Christmas festivities. This year, to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the group joined forces with the Rancho Folclórico dos Residentes do Alto Minho—another Andorran-based ensemble marking three decades—and a guest act from Viana do Castelo: the Grupo Folclórico de Sao Paulo-Barroselas.

Dozens of attendees filled about half the pews in the capital's parish church, enjoying songs, music, and short instrumental pieces from the local groups. They served as openers for the visiting ensemble, known for its theatrical flair. Performers from Sao Paulo-Barroselas staged vivid scenes from the Nativity, including shepherds heading to Bethlehem, the Magi adoring the crib, and the birth of Jesus, blending voices, instruments, and drama in a fresh take on the tradition.

José Luis Gonçalves Carvalho, president and artistic director of Casa de Portugal—the pioneers of Janeiras in Andorra—described the collaboration warmly. The Alto Minho group started a few years after them, and the two have long shared a friendly rapport, even overlapping on door-to-door caroling routes and hosting each other at events. "They began a few years after us, and truly, it's gone very well," he said.

The performance, lasting under an hour, capped a busy season for Casa de Portugal. This year brought nearly 20 outings, up from last year's challenges with young musicians facing end-of-degree exams. Highlights included singing before the new Bishop of Urgell and debuting at Massana's church, led by a Portuguese vicar. While they maintain a regular roster of venues, each January introduces novelties—like this three-group gathering.

Gonçalves Carvalho, pondering ways to mark the anniversary, suggested the joint event could become an annual fixture. Though Janeiras typically occur in early January, this late-month performance on the last Saturday closed the cycle on a high note, reconnecting participants with their roots.