Global celebrations for World Folklore Day

As August 22 arrives, World Folklore Day continues to be observed globally to honor traditional expressions, customs, and identities. The term was originally coined in 1846 by William John Thoms, combining ‘folk’ (people) and ‘lore’ (knowledge) to describe a community’s traditional wisdom.

While official UNESCO recognition of the specific date remains a subject of debate, the day is widely linked to the First International Folklore Congress held in Buenos Aires in 1960. In Argentina, the date is also celebrated as Argentine Folklore Day, honoring the legacy of Juan B. Ambrosetti, recognized as the ‘father of Argentine Folklore’. Celebrations in Argentina include academic reflections at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Neuquén and cultural marches in Las Breñas.

International observances remain diverse. Spain is utilizing digital archives from the National Library (BNE) to showcase historical regional costumes and dances. In Mexico, traditions such as the Day of the Dead, the Dance of the Voladores, and Mariachi music are highlighted. In the Dominican Republic, oral traditions and myths like the Ciguapa are celebrated, while in Paraguay, groups such as Elenco Paraguay Tekoete have performed ‘El Canto de mi Selva’ at the Itaipú Binacional site to celebrate national identity. Additionally, Peru’s Universidad Nacional de Folklore José María Arguedas promotes the preservation of ancestral music and dance through specialized academic programs.

In Colombia, the day highlights the nation’s immense regional diversity, spanning the Caribbean, Pacific, Andes, Eastern Plains, and the Amazon, honoring the musicians, dancers, and artisans responsible for transmitting ancestral knowledge.