Santarém Folk Festival Updates Rules for 2026-2028 Editions
The Santarém Folk Festival, held annually in western Pará, Brazil, will operate under a new set of regulations for its 2026, 2027, and 2028 editions. These rules, published by the Santarém Prefecture, outline guidelines for event organization, group participation, judging criteria, and disciplinary measures. The festival, traditionally held in early August, retains its competitive format featuring Quadrilha Tradicional, Quadrilha Humorística, Quadrilha Estilizada, and Carimbó performances. Under the new regulations, only the top six finishers from the previous year and two groups from a selective phase will be eligible to compete. All participating groups must be registered in the official system by July 20th. Each group must consist of at least 16 pairs, and their time in the arena, including setup and breakdown, is capped at 42 minutes and 59 seconds. Judging will be conducted by a three-member jury plus a presiding officer, with scores ranging from 8 to 10 points based on specific category criteria, such as choreography and artistic ensemble. For Carimbó, the 'Dança do Peru' remains a mandatory evaluation item. The rules also introduce stricter conduct policies, prohibiting discriminatory or offensive expressions related to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other form of discrimination, with penalties including immediate disqualification and up to a two-year suspension. The use of real weapons or bladed weapons, as well as the entry of vehicles and animals into the arena, are also forbidden. Offenses or aggressions among group members or against organizers can lead to point deductions and other sanctions. A new Commission of Verification of Regulatory Obligations will monitor compliance. Results will be announced in a public session the Monday after the festival concludes, with winning groups receiving trophies and monetary prizes.
This updated regulatory framework for the Santarém Folk Festival signals an effort to professionalize event management and ensure a more structured competitive environment. By formalizing eligibility, time limits, and judging protocols, the organizers aim to enhance fairness and predictability. The introduction of stricter conduct rules, particularly addressing discrimination and prohibiting weapons, reflects a broader societal trend towards safeguarding public spaces and promoting inclusivity. From a systems perspective, these measures are designed to mitigate risks, reduce potential conflicts, and uphold the festival's cultural integrity. The establishment of a verification commission and clear penalty structures indicates a move towards more robust governance, balancing artistic expression with accountability and participant safety. Future iterations may benefit from exploring digital platforms for broader community engagement and transparent feedback mechanisms.
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