- Categories:
- Cultural
- Tags:
- Cultural HolidaysFestivitiesInternational
- Where:
- Brazil
- Date change rule:
- Every August 22
- Holiday emoji:
- 🎭
Folklore Day celebrates the rich tapestry of cultural heritage and folk traditions every August 22. This global observance highlights the importance of preserving stories, dances, and customs passed down through generations. Engage with local communities, share your favorite tales, and support efforts to keep folklore alive for future generations.
Want to sponsor Folklore Day? Learn how
Expected Folklore Day Deals
Folklore Day is primarily a cultural observance, focusing on education and community engagement rather than commercial deals. However, many cultural institutions, museums, and local craft markets may offer special programming. Look for events at local libraries and community centers, often featuring storytelling sessions, traditional dance performances, and craft workshops. Online, platforms like Etsy and independent artisans may highlight folk-inspired art and handmade goods. We encourage supporting local artists and cultural organizations by attending events or purchasing traditional crafts. We will update this page with confirmed live cultural programs as August 22 approaches.
Platform Guide for Folklore Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #FolkloreDay. Share photos and reels of traditional crafts, costumes, or local folklore events to inspire others.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #FolkloreDay. Organize a community event or share local legends and historical anecdotes on your page.
YouTube
Subscribe to @NationalToday for holiday video content. Create short documentaries or educational videos exploring different cultural folk tales and traditions.
Folklore Day Hero
Luís da Câmara Cascudo
History of Folklore Day
The term ‘folklore’ was first coined on August 22, 1846, when William John Thoms combined the words ‘folk’ and ‘lore.’ He defined the word as the “traditional knowledge of a people.” Because of this, countries worldwide chose to celebrate their folklore and folk traditions on August 22 every year.
The Brazilian Folklore Day was established through a decree in 1965 by then military leader Humberto de Alencar Castello Branco. The decree placed immense importance on the teaching of folklore to the country’s culture. Thus, Folklore Day was established as a means to preserve the cultural traditions of the Latin American country and encourage Brazilian folklore as a subject of study. Folklore is considered a topic of great importance within the education sphere, especially in a child’s early years of schooling.
On this day, the people of Brazil remember aspects of their folklore, ranging from dance to characters. The traditional legends of Brazilian folklore include the ‘Saci’ and the ‘Curupira.’ Brazilian folklore is a rich tradition that arose from indigenous, African, and Asian peoples’ cultures and a few European influences. The importance of folklore has even been enshrined in the Brazilian constitution. Articles 215 and 216 of the Federal Constitution guard the right of all Brazilians to “exercise cultural manifestations and define that Brazilian popular culture must be encouraged and that its preservation must be defended.”
Folklore Day timeline
William John Thoms coins the term ‘folklore’ on August 22, 1846.
The Brazilian government decrees the establishment of Folklore Day on August 17, 1965.
The first Folklore Day is celebrated on August 22, 1965.
The importance of folklore is enshrined in the Federal Constitution of Brazil.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Folklore Day
Local businesses can honor Folklore Day by integrating traditional stories and crafts into their offerings. Restaurants might feature regional dishes inspired by folk recipes, while bookstores could host storytelling events or display books on local legends. Craft stores can offer workshops on traditional artisan techniques, and tourism agencies might promote tours focused on historical sites tied to local folklore. Highlighting cultural authenticity helps connect with the community and celebrate shared heritage.
Folklore Day FAQs
When is Folklore Day?
Folklore Day 2026 falls on Saturday, August 22. This annual observance is a dedicated time to celebrate and preserve the diverse folk traditions across the globe.
What is the origin of Folklore Day?
Folklore Day, or ‘Dia do Folclore’ in Brazil, was established on August 22, 1965, by federal decree. This date was chosen to commemorate the day in 1846 when the term ‘folklore’ was first coined by William Thoms, highlighting the importance of studying and preserving popular antiquities.
How many countries celebrate Folklore Day?
While Brazil officially established August 22 as its national Folklore Day, the celebration of folklore and cultural heritage is a global phenomenon. Many countries observe similar days or weeks dedicated to their unique folk traditions, often through festivals and educational programs.
What is the difference between folklore and mythology?
Folklore encompasses the traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, typically passed down orally. Mythology, while a component of folklore, specifically refers to a collection of sacred stories or myths, often explaining natural phenomena or the origins of a people, usually featuring gods or supernatural beings.
Folklore Day Activities
Read Brazilian folktales and legends
Brazilian Folklore Day is meant to honor the folktales and legends of the country. Spend the day reading some Brazilian legends and folktales.
Look up Brazilian folk art
Brazil has a rich folklore culture. Do some research on folk art that forms an integral part of Brazilian culture.
Draw and paint folklore characters
If you’ve read about the legends, and are so inclined, paint a picture depicting your favorite scenes or characters. We promise you’ll have a lot of fun!
5 Facts About Brazil
First human settlement
Recent archeological evidence shows that the earliest human settlements in Brazil were about 30,000 years ago.
Etymology
The Brazil tree is the country’s namesake.
Fifth-largest country
Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world by landmass.
Abolishing slavery
Brazil was the last country in North and South America to abolish slavery.
World’s largest carnival
Brazil hosts the world’s largest carnival, ‘Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro,’ held annually in March.
Why We Love Folklore Day
It celebrates folk culture
The folklore of Brazil is integral to its culture. The day celebrates folklore’s role in shaping Brazil into the country it is today.
The festivities are fun
Brazilian Folklore Day festivities are fun and very often beautiful. Folklore Day allows us to witness them and perhaps even join in.
An excuse to explore folktales and legends
Brazil’s folklore is rich and vibrant. The day allows us to immerse ourselves in this tradition for a while.
Social Media Tips for Folklore Day
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