Actress Margarida Vila-Nova will be the host of a multidisciplinary show featuring local institutions such as the Bomfim Choir, the percussion groups Bomboémia, Equipa Espiral and Batalá Braga, members of various folk groups from Braga and a breakdance collective. A drone show will bring the evening to a close.

Braga will officially assume the title of Portuguese Capital of Culture 2025 on 25 January, with an opening programme spanning the entire day, offering a preview of the diverse artistic events to be presented throughout the year. The opening day of Braga 25 will culminate in a major multidisciplinary show on Avenida Central (9.00 pm).

Actress Margarida Vila-Nova will be the host of “Abre a tua Porta”, embodying the motto chosen for Braga 25. Curated by John Romão, the show brings together institutions and collectives from Braga with some of the country’s leading artists.

Mariza, today’s most internationally renowned fado singer, will be one of the voices of the evening, performing not only songs from her repertoire but also pieces prepared especially for Braga 25.

Also on stage will be Iolanda, winner of the latest edition of the Festival da Canção, and Dino d’Santiago, a key figure in contemporary Portuguese music, who will make a special appearance at the opening show of the Portuguese Capital of Culture.

“Abre a tua Porta” blends music, spoken word and dance, featuring members of various folk groups from Braga and a breakdance collective, directed by choreographers Filipa Francisco and Deeogo Oliveira. Visual artist Maria Imaginário will design the set for the show.

The involvement of Braga’s residents in this show also extends to percussion, with members of the groups Bomboémia, Equipa Espiral and Batalá Braga, as well as the Bomfim Choir.

At the end of the show, the skies over Braga will be illuminated by a spectacle that combines technology, art and history, affirming the city’s role as a centre of invocation. A drone show featuring a voice-over and a traditionally inspired soundtrack, with the participation of artist Daniel Pereira Cristo, invites the audience to embark on a unique journey marking the opening of Braga as the Portuguese Capital of Culture.

The full programme for the Braga 25 Opening Programme, as well as for the first quarter of the Portuguese Capital of Culture, will be presented on 13 January at a public event taking place at Theatro Circo (5.00 pm).