Hello, good morning,

I hope you are in good spirits and good health.

Autumn has arrived gently, the leaves are starting to change color, and the days are growing shorter. And it is precisely now, when you crave a good book and a warm corner, that I come to talk to you about libraries.

I confess: for a long time, I too thought a library was a quiet place, filled with bookshelves and someone telling us to “shh!”. Well, think again. Today’s municipal libraries are anything but that.

Right around us, you can check out a ukulele, a telescope, an electric cooker, or a museum pass. You can record a podcast, 3D print an object, learn how to cook, digitize old VHS wedding tapes, or even get free legal advice. In Hamilton, there is a seed library; in Alliston, they keep the letters and eyeglasses of Sir Frederick Banting, the “father” of insulin.

And what about technology? Libraries didn’t run away from Artificial Intelligence; they embraced it. They teach how to use it wisely, lend laptops and internet access to those who don’t have it at home, and help older generations overcome their fear of smartphones. In Mississauga, more than half of those using these services say the library is the only place where they have access to this technology. In Toronto, 83% of those who used them improved their employability. Now that is a true public service.

For families, it is a real treasure. And at a time when everything costs an arm and a leg, a free treasure! Storytime for babies, coding and robotics clubs, youth spaces with snacks included, games, movies, and streaming platforms—all with a simple card. In Brampton, just living in Ontario is enough to get one without paying a single cent.

But perhaps the most important thing isn’t what you take home. It’s what you find inside: a place where no one forces you to buy anything, where a grandfather, a granddaughter, and a neighbor who just arrived in Canada sit at the same table. In times of screens, loneliness, and misinformation, that is no small thing.

So, I leave you with a challenge: if you haven’t stepped into a library in a few years, pay one a visit. Take the kids, take your parents, take your curiosity. I guarantee you’ll leave surprised—and, who knows, maybe with a ukulele under your arm.

It is what it is, and it will always be worth what it’s worth.

Take care and have a wonderful weekend,

See you soon,

Cristina DaCosta/MS

Today, the traditional image of a library with thousands of books, high shelves filled with history and stories, is far removed from reality. In fact, this is a reductive view, because the function of this type of public space is now far more comprehensive. Especially in a multicultural and fast-growing city like Toronto, where free public spaces are increasingly rare, the Toronto Public Library (TPL) has become a true meeting point filled with past, present, and future. Indeed, any regular user can attest that, today, a library is essentially bursting with life.

The numbers speak for themselves. With 100 branches spread across the city, TPL is the largest and busiest public library system in North America. In the last year alone, it welcomed over 14 million in-person visits, and eight in ten Toronto residents use the library—whether to study, work, look for a job, learn something new, or simply have a welcoming place to be.

But what can actually be found in a library today? Far more than one might imagine. Beyond books—both physical and digital—TPL offers free internet access and computers, training in digital skills and Artificial Intelligence, 3D printers, recording studios, and even a musical instrument lending library. There are dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, support for job seekers and small businesses, and initiatives that help residents participate in an informed way in the city’s democratic life.

In an era marked by loneliness, polarization, and misinformation, the library also assumes an essential civic role: bringing people together, promoting access to trusted information, and building bridges between different perspectives.

We spoke with Toronto’s City Librarian, Moe Hosseini-Ara, to understand how the library has reinvented itself, what impact it has on the lives of those who visit, and what might surprise those who haven’t been back in a while.

Milénio Stadium: For those who don’t know, how would you describe the Toronto Public Library and the role it plays in city life today?

Moe Hosseini-Ara: Eight in ten Toronto residents use their library as a place to work or study, borrow a book, attend a program, look for a job, develop skills, or simply to have somewhere to go.

As the city grows, so does the need for shared spaces, trusted information, and human connection. The Toronto Public Library (TPL) has become essential civic infrastructure.

TPL connects people to resources and opportunities through a trusted network of 100 branches, expert staff, and an extensive offering of online services. We are the largest and busiest public library system in North America.

MS: What role do TPL branches play as community gathering spaces?

MHA: TPL offers something increasingly rare: a free, welcoming public space where no purchase is required.

Our 100 branches across the city are vital community hubs that support individual and community resilience.

In the last year alone, TPL branches recorded over 14 million in-person visits, and our website (tpl.ca) had more than 32 million visits.

MS: In a fast-changing world, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence, how does TPL help residents keep up with these changes?

MHA: From early literacy to Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, TPL offers free lifelong learning opportunities for every stage of life, helping Toronto residents build the knowledge, digital skills, and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world, while helping close the digital divide.

The impact is real: 83% of users who accessed TPL’s technology services reported improving their employable skills or achieving career goals.

MS: We live in times marked by loneliness, polarization, and misinformation. What contribution can a public library make to bring people closer together and strengthen democratic life?

MHA: In an era of rising isolation, loneliness, and polarization, TPL is the gathering spot where Toronto residents come together, connect with one another, learn to combat misinformation, and engage with perspectives beyond their own.

This is a role valued by the public: 93% of Toronto residents agree that public libraries are an important resource for the community.

MS: Many people still associate libraries solely with books. Which TPL services tend to surprise those who discover them for the first time?

MHA: There are services people might not realize we offer… while books, both physical and digital, remain our core foundation, our free services go far beyond that. Many people may not know that we offer:

• Free internet access, computers, and printers;
• Help with tech and digital literacy, including AI upskilling (note: we have an AI policy that guides our staff toward the safe, responsible, ethical, and effective use of AI tools);
• Virtual interview rooms for job seekers, 3D printers, Adobe Creative Suite, and recording studios;
• Musical Instrument Lending Library;
• Programs for children, English as a Second Language (ESL) learners, job seekers, and small businesses;
• After-school clubs for children, featuring free activities like hands-on projects, coding, and robotics workshops;
• Youth Hubs—welcoming spaces for teenagers after school and during the summer, always staffed with support teams. Free, nutritious daily snacks are provided;
• We are also gearing up for the municipal election with our Celebrate Democracy initiative, which provides reliable, accessible resources to help residents understand key issues, learn about candidates, and actively participate in the process;
• Our popular tpl:map passes, which offer free access to Toronto’s arts, cultural experiences, and attractions.

The services mentioned here are just a small sample. Anyone who hasn’t visited the library in a while might be surprised by everything they will discover!

Madalena Balça/MS

Fifteen years of history, dedication, and passion for soccer. That is how the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto celebrated its 15th anniversary last Saturday (19), at a gala that brought together athletes, families, coaches, directors, guests visiting from Portugal, and the entire community.

Over these 15 years, the Academy has been much more than a space dedicated to soccer. It has been a place of growth, friendship, and development, where young people from diverse backgrounds learn values like respect, discipline, sportsmanship, and community spirit, both on and off the pitch.

During the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto’s 15th-anniversary ceremony, President Paulo Pereira highlighted the journey taken over a decade and a half and recognized the contributions of everyone who helped build and grow the project.

“Celebrating 15 years means celebrating the hard work, dedication, and trust of so many people who believed in this project from the very beginning. We must express our gratitude to the athletes, families, coaches, staff, sponsors, and community partners who have been part of this journey,” he stated.

Paulo Pereira also pointed out future challenges, noting that acquiring a new soccer stadium is among the board’s main goals. “After the forced closure of Brock Stadium, we realized even more how crucial it is to have our own home and better facilities for our youth,” he explained.

The president further emphasized that achieving this goal requires support from the community, school boards, and different levels of government, stressing that “the future of the Academy relies on creating more opportunities for young people through soccer.”

Visiting from Portugal, André Lourenço and Filipe Costa—technical coordinators for youth development at Sporting Clube de Portugal, the Academy’s parent club—were in attendance to share their expertise and vision regarding young athlete development. Both coaches praised the work being done in Toronto and expressed pride in the players’ progress, reinforcing the importance of an education built on strong values, methodology, and a passion for soccer.

Recognition and Opportunities

A key highlight was once again the Christopher McCurbin-Parkin Award, presented to Sebastian Pedrosa. For the first time, the Founders Scholarship Award was also presented, awarded to Michael Fonseca, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to supporting youth development both on and off the field.

Currently, the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto boasts around 250 athletes, 14 coaches, three Technical Leads, and an Operations Director.

The evening, featuring entertainment by Tuga Nights, was filled with emotion and celebration. Together, athletes, families, coaches, and guests celebrated 15 years of history while looking ahead to the future.

Because at the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto, they don’t just develop athletes: they shape individuals, discover talent, and instill values for life.

Francisco Pegado/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

With 18 libraries spread across the city, including the renovated Hazel McCallion Central Library, Mississauga offers its residents multiple free services that are essential in building a better-informed community. Beyond providing traditional access to reading material, today’s libraries allow visitors to borrow musical instruments, sports kits, carbon dioxide detectors, or museum passes. It is also possible to 3D print an object, record a song, cook in a community kitchen, or take home a laptop and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

In a diverse and fast-growing city like Mississauga, the public library has transformed into a true community hub: a place where people of all ages and backgrounds gather to study, learn, create, and socialize without having to pay a dime. In a climate where the cost of living weighs heavily on so many family budgets, the library provides free services that would otherwise be inaccessible to many—from streaming platforms and online courses to digital newspapers and creative software tools.

Technology has been a major priority. According to a recent survey, more than half of the users of the library’s tech services state that this is their only way to access these tools, highlighting the vital role the institution plays in bridging the digital divide.

However, the library does not stop at offering resources. It also provides guidance, family programs, partnerships with community organizations, and social spaces that help combat social isolation.

To better understand how the library has reinvented itself and what it has to offer families and the broader community, we spoke with Irene McCutcheon, Senior Communications Advisor for the City of Mississauga.

Milénio Stadium: Beyond borrowing books, what services does the library currently offer that the public might not be aware of? Which of these services has grown the most in recent years?

Irene McCutcheon: Many residents might be surprised to discover the variety of items they can borrow from the Mississauga Library of Things, such as game and sports kits, carbon dioxide detectors, musical instruments, park passes, and museum passes. One of the areas of largest growth in recent years has been the technology available to patrons—such as portable Wi-Fi hotspots, printers, photocopiers, and makerspaces equipped with 3D printers and music recording equipment. And for those looking to save money, residents can check out movies and video games, as well as access free streaming services with their library card.

MS: If you had to describe the public library to someone who only associates it with “a place for books,” how would you describe it?

IM: A public library is so much more than books on shelves. It is a community hub where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to socialize, study, and explore. It is a welcoming space where residents can participate in programs for all ages, study, meet up, and discover new interests. It is one of the few spaces where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background, or abilities, at no cost at all.

MS: What concrete changes have you made recently to keep up with technological evolution (such as Artificial Intelligence)? Are there concerns or red lines in this process?

IM: The library has made significant investments in technology to support how residents learn, create, and access information. We provide free Wi-Fi access, laptop and tablet loans, self-service checkout and return systems, and makerspaces equipped with various technologies, like 3D printing and sewing machines. These services give residents access to the technology they need at a low cost. In fact, a recent user survey revealed that 56% of respondents who use these library services say it is their only way to access this technology. As technology evolves, the library’s focus remains on providing access to learning and skill development so that patrons can use these tools effectively.

MS: In an era when information is just a click away, what do you do to ensure people still have reasons to visit the library, either in person or online? What recent initiative do you consider to have been most successful in attracting new audiences?

IM: Libraries offer much more than access to information. The Mississauga Library offers experiences, guidance, and a sense of social connection that help residents develop skills, connect with the community, and explore their interests. Patrons can participate in in-person programs and events, as well as access services that would otherwise be expensive, such as creative software, 3D printers, and sound and video recording equipment. The Hazel McCallion Central Library features a kitchen for cooking and nutrition programs, as well as a games room and other facilities that can be booked for free.

Library staff are also available to help residents navigate existing services, find materials, and build their skills. As for the online experience, the library provides free access to learning and entertainment services that would otherwise require a paid subscription. This includes LinkedIn Learning, The New York Times, PressReader, Ancestry, e-books, and streaming platforms for music and movies.

MS: What concrete benefits can a family with children get from the library today that they couldn’t ten or twenty years ago? Are there programs specifically designed to reduce costs or social isolation for families?

IM: The modern library is a center for community development, outreach, and programming for people of all ages and backgrounds. Families can participate in free programs, access community services, and engage in activities that help them learn, grow, and build connections. For budget-conscious families, the library offers free access to a wide variety of activities and materials, such as streaming services and games, children’s activities, passes to local attractions, drop-in social gatherings, book clubs, safety equipment, and language learning programs.

Through partnerships with local non-profit organizations, the library also provides outreach services, community development, and educational programs. These programs help reduce social isolation by giving residents a space to meet others, learn new skills, and build community. One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the expansion of technology available at the library—such as laptop loans, makerspaces, Wi-Fi hotspots, and other services that support skill development and help lower the cost of access.

Madalena Balça/MS

Quinze anos de história, dedicação e paixão pelo futebol. Foi assim que a Sporting FC Academy of Toronto celebrou, no passado sábado (19), o seu 15.º aniversário, numa gala que reuniu atletas, famílias, treinadores, dirigentes, convidados vindos de Portugal e toda a comunidade.

Ao longo destes 15 anos, a Academia tem sido muito mais do que um espaço dedicado ao futebol. Tem sido um lugar de crescimento, amizade e desenvolvimento, onde jovens de diferentes origens aprendem, dentro e fora das quatro linhas, valores como respeito, disciplina, companheirismo e espírito de comunidade.

Durante a cerimónia dos 15 anos da Sporting FC Academy of Toronto, o presidente Paulo Pereira destacou o percurso realizado ao longo de década e meia e reconheceu o contributo de todos os que ajudaram a construir e desenvolver o projeto.

“Celebrar 15 anos é celebrar o trabalho, a dedicação e a confiança de muitas pessoas que acreditaram neste projeto desde o início. Temos de agradecer aos atletas, famílias, treinadores, dirigentes, patrocinadores e parceiros da comunidade que fizeram parte desta caminhada”, afirmou.

Paulo Pereira destacou também os desafios para o futuro, com a aquisição de um novo estádio de futebol entre os principais objetivos da direção. “Depois do encerramento forçado do Brock Stadium, percebemos ainda mais a importância de termos uma casa própria e melhores condições para os nossos jovens”, explicou.

O presidente reforçou ainda que este objetivo exige o apoio da comunidade, dos conselhos escolares e dos diferentes níveis de Governo, salientando que “o futuro da Academia passa por criar mais oportunidades para os jovens através do futebol”.

Vindos de Portugal, André Lourenço e Filipe Costa, coordenadores técnicos da formação de jovens do Sporting Clube de Portugal, clube-mãe da Academia, estiveram presentes para partilhar a sua experiência e visão sobre o desenvolvimento dos jovens atletas. Os dois técnicos destacaram o trabalho realizado em Toronto e mostraram-se orgulhosos da evolução dos jovens, reforçando a importância de uma formação baseada em valores, metodologia e paixão pelo futebol.

Reconhecimento e oportunidades

Em destaque esteve, mais uma vez, o Christopher McCurbin-Parkin Award, conquistado por Sebastian Pedrosa. Pela primeira vez, foi também atribuído o Founders Scholarship Award, entregue a Michael Fonseca, reforçando o compromisso da Academia com o desenvolvimento dos jovens dentro e fora do futebol.

Atualmente, a Sporting FC Academy of Toronto conta com cerca de 250 atletas, 14 treinadores, três Technical Leads e um diretor de operações.

A noite, animada pelos Tuga Nights, foi marcada por emoção e celebração. Juntos, atletas, famílias, treinadores e convidados celebraram 15 anos de história e olharam para o futuro.

Porque na Sporting FC Academy of Toronto não se formam apenas atletas: formam-se pessoas, revelam-se talentos e fortalecem-se valores para a vida.

Franciso Pegado/MS

SENTIR, PENSAR E AGIR

Music entered César Russo’s life at an early age and never left. Originally from São Miguel, it was in his homeland that he began building his connection to music and to the traditions of his people. Today, after several years of pursuing his professional career as an emigrant, he is preparing to fulfill a dream: the release of his first CD, consisting mostly of original songs. In Sentir, Pensar e Agir (Feel, Think and Act), he acknowledges that before the album came the years of learning, performing on stage, and gaining experiences that helped shape the artist he is today.

One of the most significant stages of his journey was joining the Folklore Group of Ribeira Grande, where he found a true school of music, tradition, and culture. It was through folklore that he was introduced to the stage, to other musicians, and to a cultural heritage that would become part of his identity. More than entertainment, he discovered in music a way of preserving the memory and roots of a people.

When he left the Azores and came to Canada, that connection to his roots took on an even greater meaning. Far from his homeland, music became a way of keeping his Azorean identity alive. Over the years, he participated in various Portuguese community events and gradually built his career as a singer.

Now, with the release of his first CD, he is beginning a new chapter. Most of the songs are original, some written by him and others by his wife, Silvia, allowing him to move from being an interpreter to becoming a songwriter and to share his own ideas, emotions, and experiences with the public. This work brings together different moments from his journey: his Azorean roots, his learning through folklore, his experience as an emigrant, and his years performing on stage.

Between the Azores and Canada lies an ocean, but César Russo found in music a way to make it feel smaller. His first CD therefore represents more than a new recording project. It is the continuation of a journey shaped by music, memory, identity, and passion — a journey that began in the Azores and now continues on the stages of the Portuguese diaspora. The CD will be released on September 26.

Romulo Ávila/MS

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

The 2026 Beirã Cultural Week began on September 19 and concludes tomorrow, September 26, bringing the community together around traditional cuisine, folklore, culture, music, and fellowship. Over the course of eight days, the event featured a diverse program, including regional lunches and dinners, performances by folk groups, musicians and guest artists, providing opportunities to celebrate the culture and traditions of the Beiras region.

The program began on Saturday, September 19, with the official opening, followed by a regional dinner featuring caldo verde, pork, and oven-roasted veal. The evening included a performance by Telmo Rodrigues, who traveled from Portugal, as well as the Santa Fé Musical Ensemble.

On Sunday, September 20, the program continued with traditional cuisine and a Folklore Festival featuring the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, among other entertainment. The evening concluded with a regional dinner and a performance by Jéssica Vidal. On Monday, traditional cuisine once again took center stage, accompanied by performances from the Rancho Folclórico de Vaughan and Telmo Rodrigues.

A Week of Tradition and Fellowship

Tuesday was dedicated to sponsors and members of the media, with an evening featuring the Rancho Folclórico da Associação Cultural do Minho and Telmo Rodrigues.

On Wednesday, the traditional Soup Festival was held as a competition, with participation from Casa das Beiras, Casa do Alentejo, Casa dos Açores, and Casa da Madeira. The evening also featured performances by the Rancho Folclórico do Académico de Viseu and the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu.

Thursday focused on youth. The program featured performances by So Dance Studios, Performance Teen, Os Desafinados da Casa das Beiras, and DJ Anthony, providing a different kind of evening aimed at younger generations.

Fado Brought the Program to a Close

One of the highlights took place on Friday, September 25, with a Night of Fado. The event featured João Brito and his musicians, who came from Portugal, as well as Cláudia Leal, accompanied by José Geladas on Portuguese guitar and Francisco Moreira on bass guitar.

The Beirã Cultural Week concluded on Saturday, September 26, with another day dedicated to food and fellowship. The closing celebration featured a performance by the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, as well as Pedro Joel and his band.

Throughout the week, gastronomy also held a prominent place, bringing to the table flavors from different regions of Portugal — from chanfana to lagareiro-style cod, from rojões to suckling pig, as well as duck rice and pork prepared in the traditional Beiras style.

The 2026 Beirã Cultural Week was therefore much more than a week of gatherings. It was a journey through the Beiras — Baixa, Alta and Litoral — made of flavors, music, folklore, memories, and fellowship.

At the tables and on the stages, traditions that remain alive and are passed down from generation to generation came together. Because Beira is not simply a region: it is the land of our parents and grandparents, of villages, celebrations, flavors, and stories that we carry with us.

Among different lands, one common bond remains. One identity, made up of many memories.

Many lands, one soul — the soul of those who never forget their roots.

Bernardino Nascimento and his entire team deserve congratulations for bringing this celebration to life and for keeping our roots, traditions, and pride in being Beirões so alive.

Romulo Ávila/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

A Semana Cultural Beirã 2026 iniciou-se a 19 e termina amanhã, 26 de Setembro, reunindo a comunidade em torno da gastronomia tradicional, do folclore, da cultura, da música e do convívio. Ao longo de oito dias, a iniciativa apresentou um programa diversificado, com almoços e jantares regionais, atuações de grupos folclóricos, músicos e artistas convidados, proporcionando momentos de celebração da cultura e das tradições das Beiras. 

A programação arrancou no sábado, dia 19, com a abertura oficial, seguida de um jantar regional que incluiu caldo verde, carne de porco e vitela assada no forno. A noite contou com a participação de Telmo Rodrigues, vindo de Portugal, e do Conjunto Musical Santa Fé.

No domingo, dia 20, o programa prosseguiu com gastronomia tradicional e um Festival de Folclore, que contou com a participação do Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, entre outros momentos de animação. A noite terminou com jantar regional e a atuação de Jéssica Vidal. Durante a segunda-feira, a gastronomia voltou a estar em destaque, acompanhada pela atuação do Rancho Folclórico de Vaughan e de Telmo Rodrigues.

Uma semana de tradição e convívio

A terça-feira foi dedicada aos patrocinadores e à comunicação social, numa noite que contou com a presença do Rancho Folclórico da Associação Cultural do Minho e de Telmo Rodrigues. Na quarta-feira realizou-se a tradicional Festa da Sopa, em formato de concurso, com a participação da Casa das Beiras, Casa do Alentejo, Casa dos Açores e Casa da Madeira. A animação ficou ainda marcada pelas atuações do Rancho Folclórico do Académico de Viseu e do Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu.

A quinta-feira teve como tema central a juventude. A programação contou com atuações do So Dance Studios, Performance Teen, Os Desafinados da Casa das Beiras e DJ Anthony, proporcionando uma noite diferente e direcionada às novas gerações.

Fados encerraram a programação

Um dos momentos de destaque aconteceu na sexta-feira, dia 25, com uma Noite de Fados. A iniciativa contou com João Brito e os seus músicos, vindos de Portugal, bem como com Cláudia Leal, acompanhada por José Geladas, na guitarra portuguesa, e Francisco Moreira, na viola baixo. A Semana Cultural Beirã terminou no sábado, dia 26, com mais um dia dedicado à gastronomia e ao convívio. O encerramento contou com a atuação do Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, e de Pedro Joel e sua banda.

Ao longo da semana, a gastronomia teve também um lugar de destaque, trazendo à mesa sabores das diferentes regiões portuguesas — da chanfana ao bacalhau à lagareiro, dos rojões ao leitão, passando pelo arroz de pato e pela carne de porco à moda das Beiras. 

A Semana Cultural Beirã 2026 foi, assim, muito mais do que uma semana de encontros. Foi uma viagem pelas Beiras — Baixa, Alta e Litoral — feita de sabores, música, folclore, memórias e convívio. À mesa e nos palcos, cruzaram-se tradições que continuam vivas e que passam de geração em geração. Porque a Beira não é apenas uma região: é a terra dos pais e dos avós, das aldeias, das festas, dos sabores e das histórias que levamos connosco.

Entre terras diferentes, permanece uma ligação comum. Uma só identidade, feita de muitas memórias.

Muitas terras, uma só alma — a alma de quem nunca esquece as suas raízes.

Bernardino Nascimento e toda a sua equipa estão de parabéns por terem dado vida a esta celebração e por manterem tão vivas as nossas raízes, tradições e o orgulho de sermos beirões.

Romulo Ávila/MS

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

De 9 a 16 de outubro, a Casa do Alentejo Toronto volta a celebrar a cultura, as tradições e a identidade alentejana com a 41.ª edição da sua Semana Cultural. Fado, música, gastronomia e comédia fazem parte de um programa que, este ano, aposta também na aproximação às novas gerações. 

Considerada já uma tradição no calendário da comunidade portuguesa em Toronto, a Semana Cultural tem, há mais de quatro décadas, procurado manter viva, longe do Alentejo, a cultura de uma região fortemente ligada às suas raízes. 

O tema escolhido para esta edição — “Do alto ao baixo, do interior à costa… é o Alentejo” — pretende destacar a diversidade geográfica, cultural e gastronómica da região. O programa foi apresentado numa conferência de imprensa, onde a direção deu a conhecer as várias iniciativas previstas para uma semana dedicada ao Alentejo e à sua gente.

Uma aposta nas novas gerações

Uma das principais novidades desta edição é a aposta na juventude. A direção pretende aproximar os mais jovens da Casa do Alentejo, criando oportunidades para que participem mais ativamente na vida da instituição e reconhecendo o seu papel na continuidade da mesma.

Entre os destaques está um espetáculo de comédia com a humorista alentejana Ana Arrebentinha, numa iniciativa que procura trazer uma linguagem diferente ao programa tradicional da Semana Cultural. 

Também a tradicional Noite de Fados vai acontecer para mostrar que a cultura alentejana/portuguesa pode continuar a ser vivida e transmitida pelas novas gerações, sem perder a ligação às suas raízes. Fado, comédia, música e gastronomia cruzam-se, assim, numa programação que procura equilibrar a tradição com novas formas de participação.

Tradição e identidade

Apesar da aposta nos jovens, a identidade alentejana continua no centro da Semana Cultural. Para Luis Costa, presidente do executivo da Casa do Alentejo, a gastronomia, a música e as manifestações culturais ligadas ao Alentejo continuam a ocupar um lugar de destaque, contribuindo para preservar e transmitir um património que atravessou o Atlântico e permanece presente na comunidade.

“É fundamental não fugir da nossa identidade e daquilo que é a nossa base enquanto Casa do Alentejo”, sublinha a direção, reforçando a importância de preservar a história da instituição e, ao mesmo tempo, criar espaço para que os mais novos se sintam parte dela.O tema desta edição procura precisamente refletir a diversidade do Alentejo, desde as zonas do interior ao litoral, com diferentes paisagens, costumes, sabores e expressões culturais.

 Em Toronto, a Semana Cultural transforma essa diversidade numa oportunidade de encontro entre gerações. Recorde-se que haverá comédia, fado, dia dedicado à criança, dia da literatura, dia do sénior, dia do sócio, dia da juventude, exposições e lançamento de livros. 

Um desafio para o futuro

Manter uma iniciativa desta dimensão exige um esforço financeiro e logístico significativo, sendo a angariação de apoios e patrocínios um dos principais desafios. Para esta edição, a Casa do Alentejo contou com o apoio de empresários, jovens empresários da comunidade e algumas câmaras municipais de Portugal, fundamentais para a realização do evento e a preservação de uma tradição com mais de 40 anos.

A 41.ª Semana Cultural celebra as raízes alentejanas através da música, do fado, da gastronomia e das tradições, ao mesmo tempo que abre espaço para uma nova geração. Com “garra, força e união”, de 9 a 16 de outubro, o Alentejo volta a marcar presença em Toronto. Consulte o programa e participe nesta semana dedicada à nossa comunidade.

Romulo Ávila/MS

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

From October 9 to 16, Casa do Alentejo Toronto will once again celebrate Alentejan culture, traditions, and identity with the 41st edition of its Cultural Week. Fado, music, gastronomy, and comedy are part of a program that, this year, also focuses on connecting with younger generations.

Already considered a tradition on the calendar of Toronto’s Portuguese community, Cultural Week has, for more than four decades, sought to keep the culture of a region deeply connected to its roots alive, even far from the Alentejo. The theme chosen for this edition — “From high to low, from the interior to the coast… it’s Alentejo” — aims to highlight the region’s geographical, cultural, and gastronomic diversity.

The program was presented at a press conference, where the organization announced the various initiatives planned for a week dedicated to the Alentejo and its people.

A focus on younger generations

One of the main new features of this edition is its focus on youth. The organization wants to bring younger people closer to Casa do Alentejo by creating opportunities for them to participate more actively in the institution’s activities and recognizing their role in ensuring its continuity.

Among the highlights is a comedy show featuring Alentejan comedian Ana Arrebentinha, an initiative that seeks to bring a different style of entertainment to the traditional Cultural Week program.

The traditional Fado Night will also take place, demonstrating that Alentejan and Portuguese culture can continue to be experienced and passed on by younger generations without losing its connection to its roots.

Fado, comedy, music, and gastronomy thus come together in a program that seeks to balance tradition with new forms of participation.

Tradition and identity

Despite the focus on young people, Alentejan identity remains at the heart of Cultural Week.

For Luis Costa, president of Casa do Alentejo’s executive board, gastronomy, music, and cultural expressions connected to the Alentejo continue to play a prominent role, helping preserve and pass on a heritage that crossed the Atlantic and remains very much alive within the community.

“It is essential not to move away from our identity and from what forms our foundation as Casa do Alentejo,” the organization emphasizes, reinforcing the importance of preserving the institution’s history while also creating space for younger generations to feel that they are part of it.

The theme of this edition specifically seeks to reflect the diversity of the Alentejo, from inland areas to the coast, with their different landscapes, customs, flavors, and cultural expressions.

In Toronto, Cultural Week transforms this diversity into an opportunity for different generations to come together.

A challenge for the future

Maintaining an initiative of this scale also requires significant financial and logistical effort. The organization acknowledges that securing financial support and sponsorships remains one of its main challenges.

To make this edition possible, Casa do Alentejo received support from business owners and young entrepreneurs within the community, as well as from several municipal governments in Portugal.

The organization highlights the contribution of these partners to the event and to preserving a tradition that has continued for more than 40 years.

The 41st Cultural Week thus presents itself as a bridge between the past and the future. While celebrating Alentejan roots through music, fado, gastronomy, and traditions, it also seeks to create space for a new generation.

With “determination, strength, and unity,” in the words of Luis Costa, Casa do Alentejo is preparing another edition of its Cultural Week.

From October 9 to 16, the Alentejo will once again be present in Toronto — from high to low, from the interior to the coast. See the full program and take part in what is, as always, another week dedicated to all of us.

Romulo Ávila/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.