The Manitoba government is supporting the province’s largest multicultural festival and major tourist attraction by providing $400,000 in funding to the pavilions of Folklorama, Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage Andrew Smith told the Winnipeg Jewish Review in a telephone interview.

As Smith explained, the province is providing $300,000 to help support the Folklorama pavilions participating this year, as well as those who participated in 2019 but are not yet able to return for this year’s 51st edition due to the effect from the global pandemic. Smith noted that this means that each Folklorama pavilion that is going ahead this year, including the Israel pavilion, will receive $7500 from the Manitoba government. "Each pavilion can decide how it wants to maximize the use of these funds," Smith stated.

As well, as Smith indicated, $100,000 will be used to offset the admission price of the 9:45 p.m. Folklorama shows on Monday and Tuesday nights to help boost attendance by reducing ticket costs. "Hopefully this measure will help get people through the door," Smith emphasized.

Smith referred to Folklorama as an "iconic festival," which showcases our rich cultural diversity. Smith added that by supporting the pavilions of Folklorama and by supplementing admission fees, the provincial government hopes  to ensure as many Manitobans and visitors as possible can enjoy the unique opportunity to experience this miniature world tour.

"Prior to Covid 19, I would go to every  Folklorama pavilion," Smith said. "This year I hope to go to as many as I can," he added.

A May 26, 2022 press release issued by Folklorama noted that "The health and safety of our guests, volunteers and staff is our top priority. Taking into account the high vaccination rate of Manitobans, feedback from our Pavilions, and consultation with public health authorities, Folklorama will proceed with the policy that masks are encouraged, not required. In addition to an already robust health and safety program, Pavilions also will be certified in the Manitoba Tourism Education Council’s Clean it Right program. Proof of vaccination will not be required."

The above announcement accords with the policy of the Asper Jewish Community Campus, which as of June 1, 2022 no longer  proof of vaccination, and as of July 1, no longer requires wearing a mask. 

Folklorama 2022 will take place from July 31 to Aug. 13 at venues all across Winnipeg including schools and local community and cultural centres. This year’s event will feature over 25 pavilions, including the Israel pavilion at the Asper Campus. Each pavilion is being staffed by volunteers and will feature authentic food, lively entertainment and informational displays celebrating their culture, Smith noted.

The Chai Folk Ensemble will be performing at the Israel Pavilion.