Portuguese pride takes over Galt as residents celebrate Portugal Day

The Cambridge Portuguese population was out in full force on Saturday in Galt.

Flags could be seen waving and horns could be heard honking in celebration of Portugal Day.

The national day, which is June 10, honours the cultures and traditions of Portuguese communities in Canada.

For Bruno Cordeiro, it's an opportunity to recognize his heritage.

"It allows us to celebrate our roots and where we're from," Cordeiro said.

"There's a large Portuguese community here in Cambridge and it's important for the older folks who are still around to see it and celebrate the country."

There's a lot to be proud of, Cordeiro said, and he was excited to share it with others.

"We've been here for 50-plus years and Cambridge feels like home for a lot of these people," he said.

"Our passion, food and family values definitely make me the proudest."

The day began with a parade from Galt Arena Gardens to Queen's Square.

A flag raising, games, music and a dance followed at the Oriental Sports Club.

It's the first time Cambridge has celebrated the day since the pandemic and Marissa Jorge is happy to see it return.

"Our family has been coming out for years but we haven't been able to do this for a few years," Jorge said.

"It's really nice, the community has come out larger than before."

Similar to Cordeiro, Jorge believes it's important to recognize the day given the impact in the community.

"It's part of who we are and it's important we pass on those traditions to the next generation," she said.

"We're very proud, we're kind and we're friendly."