The International Folk Dance Festival “FOLK THE WORLD DANCING” was recognized by the C.I.O.F.F. (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Traditional Arts, UNESCO status B) in November 2006.It enjoys growing success, both for the quality of the invited groups and the organization, as well as for the warm welcome and the friendly atmosphere that prevails between the groups and the population. Approximately 80,000 people attend the shows during the 9 days of the festival, and its closing gala in Monção, the festival's headquarters, has 5,000 seats and ample standing room. The event takes place in 9 locations in the Viana do Castelo district and one in neighbouring Spain.