The first week of August, the heart of Ribeira Grande came alive with rhythm and color for the 18th International Festival of Folk Dancing. Organized by the talented Porto Formoso Folk Dancer Group, this annual event is a beautiful tribute to cultural heritage from around the world. The Porto Formoso group, known for their captivating dances that pay homage to the tea plantation workers of the region, hosted this wonderful showcase of tradition.

Held in the vibrant town square, the free performance was a joy to watch. It’s truly inspiring to see how communities and dance groups are dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of their countries. The stage became a window into different parts of the world, with each group telling a story through their movements and music.

A particular highlight of the evening was the performance by the group from Mexico. Their dancing was truly amazing, with incredibly vibrant costumes and a lively energy that was infectious. Watching them, you could feel the passion and history behind every step, a testament to the rich traditions they represent.

This experience left me deeply inspired. I believe that dance is a powerful way to connect with joy, culture, and community. With this in mind, I am considering adding this kind of folk dancing to my future longevity retreats, as a way to celebrate movement and cultural traditions. I’d love to hear your thoughts—is this something you would be interested in?

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Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.