F.A.Q

Here are some frequently asked questions to assist in your planning!

Pavilions

Which Pavilions are participating in Folklorma this year?

Folklorama is thrilled to be back for its 52nd Festival. Plan your Pavilion visits here!

How are Pavilions chosen to participate in Folklorama?

Folklorama provides the opportunity for member ethno-cultural communities to promote and celebrate their intangible culture through the annual Folklorama Festival. To participate in the Folklorama Festival, ethno-cultural communities must be represented by a member organization of Folklorama for at least one full year prior to hosting a Pavilion. Once approved to begin the process, they must shadow another Pavilion for another year. After this process is complete, the new potential Pavilion will then need to apply for a Pavilion license and provide a detailed operational plan including details outlining the features of the Pavilion culture; food and safety, health and security, budget and other guidelines such as cultural display and entertainment. This plan must outline the organization that will be fiscally responsible for the execution of the Pavilion. Folklorama is about celebrating cultures and not countries. To learn how to become a member, visit Folklorama – Our Members

I am missing my favourite Pavilion, where did it go?

There are so many amazing communities that make up Folklorama. Putting on a Pavilion is a large undertaking that is done by very dedicated volunteers. We look forward to those returning and new Pavilions to join the Folklorama family in the years to come. Folklorama encourages you to try a Pavilion you haven’t been to before!

Where are the Pavilions located?

Folklorama gratefully acknowledges that we create, connect, and celebrate on Treaty One territory – original land of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Ojibway, Dene, and Dakota peoples, and homeland of the Métis nation. We are committed to building relationships and sharing knowledge, and cultural understanding of all communities. Understanding our diversity fosters pride and mutual respect. The Folklorama Travel Guide is back for all your Festival planning needs and includes a comprehensive Pavilion map! View digital Travel Guide.

Are there any Pavilions who are outdoors?

While all Folklorama Pavilions are hosted in venues indoors, there are some that have outdoor components with activities, food, and beverage outside. Look for the sun icon in the Travel Guide for those that have outdoor activities.

How does Folklorama support Pavilions financially?

The success of the Folklorama ethno-cultural communities is of the utmost importance to our organization. Folklorama collects a small fee to submit an application to be part of the annual Festival, as well as sharing 50% of Pavilion Admissions revenue.  No other fees are collected as revenue for Folklorama.  All food, beverage, souvenir, and sponsorship revenue in a Pavilion is kept by that community to support their ongoing programs in preservation of heritage. Folklorama wants the ethno-cultural communities to thrive and have no plans to change this structure.

How is Folklorama a fundraiser for communities?

What a lot of people do not know, is that funds that are made in a Pavilion during the Festival remain in that community and support year-round programming initiatives such as language classes, traditional dance, immigration transition support, and most importantly, community connections. A portion of the admissions is used to help cover the operational fees of the Festival.

How do I get to the Pavilions?

Folklorama encourages you to research the area your destination is in to figure out the best parking/transportation options for you. Please reference the Folklorama Travel Guide for tips as well. Think about taking a local transit bus Winnipeg Transit – Find a Route or don’t worry about driving at all and go on our VIP Tours!

Can I reserve my seating at a Pavilion in advance?

Only certain Pavilions take dinner reservations. At Pavilions that do not accept reservations, seating is first-come, first-serve. Volunteers are on hand to help with any accessibility needs. To find out which Pavilions offer reservations, check out the Travel Guide.

How does Folklorama work with local ethno-cultural communities?

All Pavilions are part of the Folklorama family– our membership. Each year they apply to be a Pavilion and Folklorama works with them to ensure their success. Minus a percentage of the admissions at the door, all money made in the Pavilions stays in the Pavilions. When you support a Pavilion, you are supporting their local community and the programs that they run to help culture thrive and survive.

I won a contest through a local media outlet. How do I claim my prize?

Follow the instructions on your prize letter. If you have any other questions, please contact our front desk at (204) 982-6210 or [email protected].

Accessibility

What accommodations are made at Pavilions for accessibility?

The comfort of our Folklorama guests is very important to all. Folklorama is committed to adhering to The Accessibility for Manitobans Act. We strive to make every effort to provide accessible access to events and materials who need them. Please refer to the Folklorama Travel Guide for all your needs. If you should have any questions, please reach out to us at [email protected] or call 204-982-6210.

Donate

I can’t attend Folklorama this year, but I want to support. How can I do so?

The Folklorama Cultural Preservation Fund was established to align with Folklorama’s mandate of celebrating diversity and promoting cultural understanding. This Fund will provide Folklorama members access to funds to support their ongoing or new projects that celebrate, educate, promote, and preserve culture. Support youth in the preservation of their intangible culture for years to come. You can call us directly to donate or do it on our website here – Folklorama Cultural Preservation Fund. Award applications open September 1, 2023.

Food Options

I have food allergies, what can I eat at each Pavilion?

The Folklorama Travel Guide is your one-stop planning option. In the Travel Guide, you can find which Pavilions cater to which dietary accommodations. Please note: Pavilions cannot guarantee an allergen-free zone and may contain potential allergens which may cause an adverse reaction. If you have any allergies to food or environmental elements that may negatively affect you, please use caution before entering a Pavilion or ordering food and beverage.

Can I bring my own food and drink to Pavilions?

Outside food and drink are prohibited. However, baby food and formula are permitted.

I love a dish I had at one of your Pavilions. How can I get the recipe?

Folklorama is known for its food! We were even named one of the Top 10 2019 Best Festivals for Food in North America by Forbes Magazine – so you’re not alone! Please e-mail [email protected] and we will do our best to track down the recipe for you.

Group Tours

What’s new in 2023 for Tours?

Folklorama has a brand new options for Tours in 2023. For those who enjoy desserts, we will be offering a Sweet Treats three Pavilion VIP experience. Why eat a meal when you can eat desserts all night long! Folklorama is also ecited to offer more pick-up and drop-off locations! To learn more click here!

Can I bring a group of people – like a bachelorette or birthday party – to Folklorama?

Yes! Whether you are looking at a two or three Pavilion experience, contact our Group Tours department to book your customized tour or VIP Tour! Click here to see Folklorama’s tour options.

When will tickets go on sale for VIP Tours?

VIP Tours are now on sale here!

I’m interested in your VIP Tours, but I don’t have a group – can I still come?

Yes! Click here to look at your VIP Tour options – from walking tours, cycle tours, and bus tours. There’s something for everyone!

I’m from outside of Winnipeg and would like to bring a tour group to Folklorama – is this possible?

Folklorama is proud to host thousands of tour guests from around the world each year during the Festival and outside of the Festival time. Please contact our Manager, Group Tour Programs to arrange your details at [email protected]!

What is the average cost of a custom tour?

A custom tour starts at $62.00 per person. The price increases depending on your transportation, location, Pavilion requests, as well if you would like an interactive Folklorama at Play experience.

How many people can I have on a custom tour?

The minimum booking for a custom tour is 30 paid people. When booking 30 paid people, you will get two additional complimentary tickets. For groups that are smaller than 30, Folklorama suggests booking a VIP Tour option online. To view the available options, Click here

I’m from outside Winnipeg and want to bring atour group outside of Festival time

The Folklorama Group Tours Program can help create a mini Folklorama, Ethno-Cultursal workshops, food events, and more for your guests. Please Contact our manager, Group Tours Program to arrange your details at [email protected].

Tell me more about the VIP Tour options.

Every night, different VIP Tours roll out from all around Winnipeg. Click here to see the different options. Travel with us today! 

Does Folklorama offer any tours for Supportive Housing residents?

Yes, Folklorama does offer Accessible tours through the VIP Tour program. Visit the options online here: VIP Tours. Also, access for Support Housing Group Tours are exclusively offered to retirement houses or personal care homes for a minimum of eight and a maximum of 15 guests. There are two options to book.
Option 1: $30.00 group. This includes a reserved parking spot for one vehicle and reserved seating with easy access entrance. Tickets must be purchased online in advance by the Housing Group.
Option 2: New for 2023. $25 per person. This includes a parking spot reserved for one vehicle, reserved seating with easy access entrance, dinner with non-alcoholic beverage served at table side and admission into the Pavilion. To book, contact [email protected].

I’m having a problem with the VIP Tours site on my Android.

Throughout heavy testing, we noticed that some Android may freeze screens. If you go back to the original screen, it will unfreeze and you can continue.

Where do I meet the bus for my VIP Pick- Up?

If you are travelling on a VIP Tours, here are the following locations and where the buses will pick you up. Please note locations are pre-selected when you purchase your ticket and are not available every night of Folklorama:
Grant Park (West) Doors between Shoppers Drug Mart and CIBC)
Kildonan Place (North East area) – Doors near the mall construction. Corner of Reenders & Stapon. Inside near the Lottery Booth.
RBC Convention Centre (Downtown)– Registration is set up at the main entrance on York Avenue.
St. Vital Centre  (South area) – Registration will be set up at Entrance 1 which is beside the Marshall’s/Home Sense (facing the corner of St. Mary’s Road and Abinojii Mihanah (formerly Bishop Grandin).
Wyndham Garden Hotel – Registration will be in the café. 460 Madison St. Near Polo Park Mall.

I missed my VIP Tour Pick-up. What happens next?

We are sorry to hear that. Please head to the next pick-up location or to your first destination. We will notify your Tour Guide that you are on your way. It is your responsibility to get to your location and not at the cost of Folklorama.

Why am I paying service fees?

The service fees are set at $4.00 (per ticket) for every Pavilion tour. Folklorama operates as a non-profit organization and as such this additional charge is to cover the cost of the credit card charges as well as to subsidize the cost of operating an online ticketing system.

Tickets

When will tickets go on sale?

Tickets are now on sale! Purchase here.

What are the ticket options?

There are so many to choose from! From individual Pavilion visits to Vickar Automotive Group Multi-Packs, or VIP Tours! Click here to start your adventure! 

How do I buy tickets?

Visit Folklorama.ca and click on buy tickets on the right-hand top side of your screen. You can also go to the Festival’s tab and pick “Find a Pavilion
Choose the Pavilion you would like to visit. Click buy tickets and a window will pop up on the right-hand side of your screen.
Scroll up or down to pick the show you would like to see.
Choose how many tickets you would like.
Click buy and go through the payment steps.
Once the payment process has been completed, you will receive two e-mails from Folklorama. One is your confirmation which includes access to the ticket portal. The next one is a receipt for your payment.

How do I bring my tickets to the Pavilion for entry?

Feel free to print them from your e-mail or download them to your apple wallet. Once you arrive at your chosen Pavilion, join in the pre-paid ticketing line.

I want to attend a certain show and it’s sold out. How can I go?

Folklorama highly advises that you plan your Folklorama experience in advance. Tickets sell out quickly, so planning early will avoid any missed opportunities. Folklorama does offer VIP Tours that include transportation, food options, and guaranteed seating. Click here for options. 

Are my children’s ticket free still free?

Yes, children 12 and under are still free when accompanied by a paying adult admission (maximum 5 children per adult). Even though it is a free ticket, it must be booked to secure entrance into the Pavilion. For Admissions information, click here.

I want to attend more than one Pavilion – is there a discount for buying more?

Yes! The Vickar Automotive Group Multi-Pack is an admission option available to guests which allow for the purchase of 10 tickets at a discounted rate. Tickets must be purchased online and do not need to be used at one time. Purchasing a multi-pack provides a $10 discount, but each ticket still has a $1.00 service fee. The total price with the service fee is $70.00. Click here to purchase your Multi-Pack today.

I want to change my time on my ticket or give to another person. How do I do this?

Tickets are non-transferable. Transferable guidelines are determined by Folklorama, not the Pavilion. Folklorama shall not be required to refund any fees or charges paid in addition to the face value of the ticket (for example, any service charge). If you have any questions, please contact the Folklorama office at (204) 982-6210 or [email protected].

Can I get a refund on my tickets?

Thank you for purchasing a ticket to Folklorama. Due the cost of maintaining a Festival, refunds are not available but please contact our office for other options.

Are tickets being sold at the door?

Tickets are sold at the door, but Folklorama recommends purchasing your ticket in advance online to guarantee you can get into a Pavilion.

How do I select the date and time for my ticket?

To select your preferred date and time, go to the ‘Find a Pavilion‘ page. Click on the Pavilion you would like to visit, then click “Buy Tickets”. A slide-out will appear on the righthand side of the screen. Find the date and showtime you would like to attend and click “Buy Tickets”. Dates and times that are sold out will not be available for selection. Capacity limits are in place for each date and time slot.

I never received a confirmation e-mail for my ticket. What do I do?

Please check the “Junk” folder in your email. If it’s not there, please contact the Folklorama office who can reissue your ticket. They can be reached at [email protected] or call 204-982-6210 Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm During the Festival, Folklorama office hours are: Monday – Sunday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

What time do the performances start?

Please refer to the Travel Guide to plan your day/night.

I heard about your Monday and Tuesday 9:45 p.m. shows are only $1.00 – is that true?

Unfortunately, the $1.00 program was only a special program in 2022.

Why are there fewer 9:45 p.m. shows during the beginning of the week?

This year, Pavilions were given an option to limit shows earlier in the week.  They are choosing to run the show times that work best for their volunteers and the community.

How can I access the ticket portal?

You can access your ticket account by clicking the “My Ticket Account” button on our Admission Options page.

My login isn’t working on the ticket portal. What now?

Please contact the office. They can be reached at [email protected] or Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. During the Festival, Folklorama office hours are:Monday – Sunday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.

How do I redeem my Vickar Automotive Group Multi-Pack admissions?

After you purchase your Multi-Pack, you will be sent a promotional (promo) code to your e-mail address. When you are ready to purchase your tickets, choose your Pavilion, click buy ticket, choose your preferred date and time, and then enter your offer code on the next screen.

Why did ticket prices go up?

After consultations with our Pavilions, Folklorama raised the ticket price by $.50 in order to cover additional operating costs. Up until last year, Folklorama had not raised their pricing in over 13 years.

Why am I paying service fees?

Thank you for your interest in attending Folklorama. The service fee is $1.50 (per ticket). $4.00 (per Tours ticket), and $12.50 (for Vickar pack) There is no service fee when purchasing a child ticket. Folklorama operates as a non-profit organization and as such,  this additional charge is to cover the cost of the credit card charges as well as to subsidize the cost of operating an online ticketing system.

I would prefer not to use my credit card online. How can I purchase tickets?

No problem. Feel free to call our office Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 204-982-6210 and one of your staff members would be happy to assist you. During the Festival, our hours are 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.

Ethno-Cultural Arts Programs

Are the Ethno-Cultural Arts programs Folklorama at Home, Folklorama at Work, Folklorama at School still running?

Yes, even during the Festival, you can book your own Folklorama at Home, Folklorama at Work, and Folklorama at School program. To book your expereince, email [email protected].E-mail our office directly if you have a vision you want to see become reality.

Health & Safety

What are Folklorama’s health and safety measures for the Festival?

The health and safety of our guests, volunteers, and staff is our top priority.
In addition to the Food Handlers certification, each Pavilion is required to implement their own increased cleaning protocols to supplement already well-established cleaning processes.
For our bus tours, our transportation team has undergone some incredible measures from airflow filters, hand sanitizer machines to disinfection with UV light to hygiene foggers and sanitization stations.

Vendors

How can I apply to be a vendor at a Pavilion?

Contact the Folklorama office with what you would like to sell and our staff can connect you with the right Pavilion coordinator. They can be reached at [email protected] or call 204-982-6210 Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Volunteers

How can I apply to be a volunteer?

Team Folklorama, our volunteer program, provides a variety of fun and engaging volunteer opportunities to our robust network of volunteers. Whether it is volunteering at one of our Pavilions, special events, or assisting in our Folklorama office! There are many benefits to volunteering, including being part of a new community, increased confidence, networking opportunities, supporting local organizations, and learning about new cultures. There are also tangible benefits like passes to Pavilions, discounts on group tours, and more! If you would like to get involved with Team Folklorama or the Folklorama Youth Council, please contact: Katie Green, Folklorama’s Coordinator, Member & Festival Services at (204) 982-6213 or [email protected]

How many volunteers make Folklorama happen?

In total, there are more than 8,000 volunteers who dedicate over 300,000 volunteer hours each year.

How do I choose a shift in the volunteer portal?

Once you have received your confirmation to volunteer, Katie Green, Coordinator, Member & Festival Services will be in touch. You can also reach out to Katie at [email protected].

Media

How can I apply for media accreditation?

Thank you for your interest in covering Folklorama. The Festival runs August 6-19, 2023. Accreditation will begin May 26 and close July 10, 2023. When accreditation is open: Please apply online here If you are interested in covering our Ethno-Cultural Arts Division’s Folklorama at Home, at School, or at Work programs and/or artists, please contact our Marketing & Communications team via email at [email protected].

How can I set up an interview for the Folklorama Festival?

Please send an e-mail directly to Tanya Williams, Director, Marketing, Communications & Engagement at [email protected].

Folklorama General

What’s the history of the Folklorama Festival?

Folklorama began in 1970 as a one-time celebration of Manitoba’s centennial but has since grown to be the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind in the world. Developing out of the success of the Festival, the organization offers year-round programs: Folklorama at Home, Folklorama at Work, Folklorama at School, Folklorama at Play. All the programs bring to life Folklorama’s mission of celebrating diversity and promoting cultural understanding.

Can I book a Folklorama party or educational experience?

Yes, you can book a Folklorama party or educational experience through our Folklorama Ethno-Cultural Arts Division’s Folklorama at Home, at Work, at School, or at Play programing. We encourage you to view some of our already established packages online at Folklorama.ca under Events & Workshops. We have some packages online at Folklorama.ca, or we can create custom ones for you.

What is Folklorama’s involvement in reconciliation?

Folklorama has been involved in the promotion of Indigenous culture since Folklorama’s beginnings over 50 years ago. Since the 1980’s, Folklorama Ethno-Cultural Arts division has employed and promoted Indigenous performers through Folklorama at Home, at Work, at School, and at Play programming as well as nationally and internationally.
In 2017, Folklorama became one of the original signatories to the City of Winnipeg Indigenous Accord. Since then, Folklorama has been promoting and encouraging Indigenous education through our Ethno-Cultural Arts Division of our company. Since 2017, over 300 events have occurred, as well as working towards our own internally established goals on an annual basis.
Folklorama recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th annually and became a founding member of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Manitoba in 2023.

I have noticed that not all traditions or languages are represented at the Festival– why is this?

Folklorama is unique in that it is the ethnocultural communities themselves that decide whether they are interested and able to run a Pavilion in any given year, it is not Folklorama that decides their choice to apply for participation or not. In 2022, not all our ethnocultural communities were prepared to return to hosting a Pavilion and that is why there was no representation from the communities you have mentioned. We can assure you that this has changed for 2023 as communities have had an opportunity to re-engage volunteers and put together plans for a great Pavilion.

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