The traditional dances of Portugal & costumes

Folk dancing is a very traditional type of dancing which still happens in Portugal today, these dances are usually celebrating a Saint as Portugal is a very Catholic and religious country. There are many types of dances depending on which part of Portugal you are living in, each with a different story to tell. Some types of dances include the Vira, Chula, Corridinho, Malhão and Fandango.

Vira

Vira is a traditional dance from the north of Portugal (Minho). It is similar to the Australian Waltz, where couples form a circle facing each-other and go around a circle doing different steps, changing partners as they go, or sometimes the women may have ‘solos.’

The costume is a long length red and black skirt with a flower pattern on the hem of the skirt. Women wear a white shirt and a red head-piece.

Chula

The Chula is very similar to the Vira in the way that you are still a couple going around in a circle, but it is also very popular in Douro which is also in the North of Portugal.

While the Vira is danced as the waltz, this dance is danced to a piano accordion and also a guitar with a singer. There are a lot of fast moves and feet stomping while hands are clicking. The costumes are fairly similar however the patterns on the women’s skirts differ.

Corridinho

This dance is very popular in Algarve, danced in pairs forming two circles, girls on the inside and boys on the outside. This is one of the most popular kinds of dances that people do, as it is said to be easier faster and more fun. The music is fast and there is also stomping involved, and changing direction within the circles.  

The costume is more detailed and uses more of the Portuguese colors in the design (green and red).

Malhão

Malhão dancing is very well known in Estremadura. It is not really one of the dances that is done as it is not very popular.

The costumes are plainer with no bright colours of designs, a red and black skirt.

Fandango

The fandango is similar to the Vira, however the steps and music is much different. It is a dance which is originally formed in Spain. This dance is much loved and celebrated in Portugal not only on special saint celebrations but also at Christmas. 

The costume is a long red skirt and a red shirt. Also, the design is different as well.