Looking for an all-expenses-paid wedding this year?

Couples from all ethnicities and backgrounds are invited to apply be part of the ‘Lisbon Style Group Wedding’ at Mississauga Celebration Square, in Mississauga, Ontario, to be held on September 9, 2023.

This unique tradition that originated in Lisbon, Portugal, is being offered in Canada for the second year in a row.  The initiative was started in 1958 by the Diário Popular newspaper to offer couples encountering financial hardship the opportunity to realize the dream of being able to wed.

The group wedding is a highlight of Portugalo Fest, a festival that showcases Portuguese traditions, exceptional cuisine, folklore, talent, vast history and offers fun activities.

“This is a great opportunity for newcomers to plant their feet in Canada with their partners. The wedding ceremony will be a wonderful experience for those lucky couples selected,” says Portugalo Fest’s marketing director Devin Meireles.

Maria de Fatima Esteves

“Inspired in the ‘Noivas de Santo António’ (Brides of St. Anthony) group weddings, the essence of the weddings always spoke to my heart even as a child growing up in Lisbon. Couples entered a contest and the chosen received a free ceremony with the bride’s and groom’s attire, as well as the ceremony completely free,” says the Festival’s co-founder and president, Maria de Fatima Esteves.

“Portugalo Fest is the perfect setting for a tradition so very close to my heart. Everyone is welcome to apply, you don’t have to be of Luso [related to the Portuguese culture] descent. My heart and soul sings when I am able to witness the happiness of the wedded couples!”

Applications are open until June 23rd, 2023. Learn more. 

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