Grupo Tradição keeps the Carnival celebration alive with a parade of diversity and joy

This year, the parade was even more special, with the participation of people of all ages - young, not so young and even children, all united around the preservation of the carnival tradition. Over the decades, Grupo Tradição has been a reference in promoting the typical festivities of Cape Verde, celebrating the country's cultural heritage, even when far from home.

The parade began with a contagious energy, accompanied by traditional rhythms, joyful dances and a sea of colors that invaded one of the premises of the Portuguese Social Club building in Pawtucket. The audience, which gathered in large numbers to watch the event, was enchanted by the joy of the participants and the diversity of costumes, which reflected the traditions and customs of Cape Verdean culture. Grupo Tradição's main mission has always been to honor its cultural roots, and over the years it has played a key role in passing on Carnival culture to new generations.

This group, which has deep roots in the Cape Verdean community in the United States, has been one of the most important institutions in the preservation of cultural and folkloric traditions, especially with regard to Carnival festivities. Founded in the city of Pawtucket, Grupo Tradição is made up of members of the Cape Verdean community, many of whom were born in the United States, but who maintain a strong connection with their origins. For them, the Carnival festival is a way to connect with their heritage, to celebrate the culture of the archipelago and to pass on these cultural values to younger people.

The presence of children in this year's parade is one of the most striking features, reflecting the group's commitment to continuing the tradition. By seeing their parents and grandparents parading, the younger ones have the opportunity to learn and experience the traditions up close, thus becoming an active part of the celebration. The involvement of the younger generations ensures that the Carnival culture is kept alive and that future editions continue to be full of joy and meaning.

The parade was undoubtedly a true manifestation of identity and cultural resistance. In a globalized world, where many traditions can be lost over time, Grupo Tradição stands out as an example of perseverance. Even far from Cape Verde, the members of the group manage to keep the essence of the Carnival celebrations alive, honoring King Momo with the same intensity and enthusiasm with which the festivities are celebrated in their homeland. The Carnival festival represents, for many, a moment of cultural resistance, where Cape Verdean identity is reaffirmed and valued.

This event also serves as a meeting point for the Cape Verdean community of Pawtucket, a space for unity and celebration. Carnival is more than a party; it's an occasion to strengthen the bonds between community members, to exchange experiences and to celebrate what it means to be Cape Verdean, no matter where you live.

The parade and all the festivities were supported by the Xaxe and Boys Band and the well-known singer Djosinha.

This year's edition was not only another opportunity to celebrate Carnival, but also a way of reaffirming the importance of the Tradition Group in the continuity of cultural celebrations. Although many may think that traditions are harder to maintain as time goes by, Grupo Tradição proves that with dedication, unity and respect for their origins, traditions can be passed on, lived and celebrated for generations. And so, Carnival will continue to be a symbol of the joy, culture and unity of the Cape Verdean community.

With a vibrant parade full of emotions, Grupo Tradição not only celebrated Carnival, but also ensured that the flame of Cape Verdean culture and traditions continues to shine brightly, no matter where its members are. The group's commitment to keeping this tradition alive is an inspiring example of how culture, when well preserved and passed on, can overcome geographical and temporal barriers, connecting people with their roots and the history of their people.