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World Portuguese Language Day May 5

Imagine stepping back in time to the 15th and 16th centuries, when the world was vast and uncharted, and the Portuguese language began its incredible journey across the globe. From the misty landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula, this Romance language, with its melodious sounds and expressive syntax, embarked on an epic voyage of discovery, trade, and conquest. As Portuguese explorers set sail to unknown lands, they not only expanded their empire but also planted the seeds of their language in far-off territories. Today, Portuguese is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world, a testament to its enduring influence and the adventurous spirit of its speakers. With roots deep in history and branches that stretch across continents, the Portuguese language is a living bridge connecting diverse cultures and peoples. Celebrated annually on May 5, World Portuguese Language Day is not just a nod to the language's rich heritage but also a celebration of its vibrant present and promising future. Why does this language continue to captivate hearts and minds across the globe? Let's embark on a journey through time to uncover the legacy of the Portuguese language, a story of exploration, identity, and global connection.

Key Takeaway

World Portuguese Language Day is celebrated on May 5th to promote the Portuguese language and its cultural and historical significance.
Portuguese, the sixth most widely spoken language in the world, originated in Portugal and spread through the Portuguese Empire, leaving a profound impact on the world’s cultural and historical landscape.

Timeline

1996
Establishment of World Portuguese Language Day
The Council of Portuguese Language decides to establish World Portuguese Language Day (Dia Mundial da Língua Portuguesa) to celebrate the Portuguese language and its cultural diversity.
2009
First World Portuguese Language Day
The first World Portuguese Language Day is celebrated on May 5, 2009, under the theme ‘Portuguese Language: A Bridge to Unity and Diversity’.
2010
Portuguese Language in the Digital World
The theme for the 2010 World Portuguese Language Day is ‘Portuguese Language in the Digital World: Overcoming Challenges, Fostering Opportunities’.
2011
Portuguese Language and Intercultural Dialogue
The 2011 World Portuguese Language Day focuses on ‘Portuguese Language and Intercultural Dialogue: Sharing Diversity, Building Common Ground’.
2012
Portuguese Language and Globalization
Under the theme ‘Portuguese Language and Globalization: Challenges and Opportunities’, the 2012 World Portuguese Language Day highlights the importance of the language in an increasingly globalized world.
2013
Portuguese Language and Education
The 2013 World Portuguese Language Day, themed ‘Portuguese Language and Education: Quality, Access, and Creativity’, emphasizes the role of education in promoting the language and its cultural heritage.
2014
Portuguese Language and Science
The 2014 World Portuguese Language Day, with the theme ‘Portuguese Language and Science: Bridging Continents, Connecting People’, explores the connection between the language and scientific development.
2015
Portuguese Language and Cultural Diversity
The 2015 World Portuguese Language Day, themed ‘Portuguese Language and Cultural Diversity: A Rich Heritage, A Promising Future’, celebrates the language’s diverse cultural expressions and influences.
2016
Portuguese Language and Sustainable Development
The 2016 World Portuguese Language Day, under the theme ‘Portuguese Language and Sustainable Development: Promoting Dialogue for Action’, discusses the role of the language in promoting sustainable development and social responsibility.
2017
Portuguese Language and Creativity
The 2017 World Portuguese Language Day, themed ‘Portuguese Language and Creativity: Expressions of Identity and Diversity’, showcases the language’s creative potential and its ability to foster cultural identity and diversity.
2018
Portuguese Language and Multilingualism
The 2018 World Portuguese Language Day, with the theme ‘Portuguese Language and Multilingualism: Achieving Mutual Understanding and Solidarity’, promotes the value of multilingualism and linguistic diversity in fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among nations.
2019
Portuguese Language and Information Technology
The 2019 World Portuguese Language Day, themed ‘Portuguese Language and Information Technology: Breaking Barriers, Fostering Inclusion’, highlights the importance of integrating the Portuguese language in information technology to promote social inclusion and accessibility.
2020
Portuguese Language and the Arts
The 2020 World Portuguese Language Day, under the theme ‘Portuguese Language and the Arts: Celebrating Creativity, Inspiring Dialogue’, celebrates the rich artistic heritage of the Portuguese-speaking world and its contribution to global cultural diversity.
2021
Portuguese Language and Sports
The 2021 World Portuguese Language Day, themed ‘Portuguese Language and Sports: Building Bridges, Fostering Unity’, highlights the role of sports in promoting the Portuguese language and its cultural values, as well as fostering unity and solidarity among nations.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Workshops: Kick off World Portuguese Language Day with hands-on workshops designed to immerse participants in the beauty of Portuguese. From calligraphy sessions showcasing the unique script styles of the language to cooking classes where you can whip up traditional Portuguese dishes, there's no shortage of ways to dive deep into the culture. These activities not only celebrate the language but also highlight its influence on global cuisine and arts.

  2. Afternoon Cultural Performances: As the day unfolds, attendees are treated to a vibrant showcase of Portuguese culture through music and dance. Picture local and international artists hitting the stage, their performances echoing the soulful tunes of Fado music or the energetic steps of traditional folk dances. This segment of the day is a living testament to the Portuguese language's ability to convey emotion and connect communities across continents.

  3. Evening Film Screenings: Cap off the celebration with a series of film screenings under the stars. These films, all masterpieces in Portuguese, range from classic cinema to contemporary hits, offering a glimpse into the storytelling prowess of Portuguese-speaking filmmakers. It's a perfect way to wind down, as viewers are transported into narratives that span the globe, all while paying homage to the language that binds these diverse stories together.

Interesting Facts

1. Origins in Galicia

Portuguese originated in Galicia, Spain, before becoming Portugal's primary language.

2. Global Expansion

In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portuguese explorers spread the language globally.

3. Language of an Empire

Portuguese was the official language of one of history's largest empires.

4. Official Language in Nine Countries

Portuguese is the official language in nine diverse countries today.

5. Celebrating Cultural Richness

World Portuguese Language Day promotes Portuguese cultural and historical significance.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating a Global Language
    Who wouldn't want to celebrate a language that connects continents? On May 5, we honor World Portuguese Language Day, a nod to the sixth most widely spoken tongue across the globe. From the cobblestone streets of Lisbon to the bustling markets of Brazil, Portuguese weaves together a tapestry of diverse cultures and histories. This day isn't just about the language itself but the rich cultural heritage and the unbreakable bonds it forms among people from different corners of the world.

  • A Journey Through Time
    Let's take a trip back in time, shall we? The story of Portuguese is like an epic tale, beginning in the Iberian Peninsula and spreading its wings as far as Africa, Asia, and South America during the age of exploration. Celebrating this day, we're not just tipping our hats to a language; we're diving into centuries of history, acknowledging the adventurers and the common folk who shaped the world as we know it. It's a chance to marvel at how languages evolve and influence global culture, politics, and even trade.

  • Unity in Diversity
    Here's the kicker: World Portuguese Language Day is more than just words; it's about unity. With Portuguese as the official language in nine countries, this celebration highlights the incredible diversity within the Portuguese-speaking community. Imagine the variety of music, literature, and traditions that come from this vast linguistic family. On May 5, we're reminded that despite our differences, we can find common ground and appreciate the beauty in diversity. It's a powerful message, especially in today's world, and a great reason to love this day.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
MAY 5 2022
MAY 5 2023
MAY 5 2024
MAY 5 2025
MAY 5 2026
MAY 5 2027
MAY 5 2028

FAQ

What is the 5th of May in Portugal?

Did you know that the 5th of May is a special day both in Portugal and elsewhere? The Portuguese speaking countries have celebrated this day as their special language day for several years.

Is Brazil the only country that speaks Portuguese in South America?

Brazil represents the sole South American country that speaks Portuguese as its official language. Over 214 million people speak Portuguese in Brazil, making it the largest Portuguese-speaking country in the world.

What is the official language for Portugal?

Portuguese is currently the fifth most spoken language in the world and an official language of Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe and East Timor.

What are the top three languages spoken in Portugal?

Portuguese, unsurprisingly, tops the list as the most spoken language in Portugal. Following closely are Mirandese, recognized in some northeastern parts of the territory, and Portuguese Sign Language, catering to the deaf community. English, due to its global influence, is widely studied and understood, especially in tourist areas.