Patrimônio Cultural imaterial: história social do festival folclórico no município de Autazes-AM

Abstract

The Autazes Folklore Festival was established in 1973 to celebrate the anniversary of the Raimundo Sá School on June 23rd, beginning as a small *arraial* (traditional festival gathering) involving students, parents, and the community. It expanded year by year—attracting visitors from neighboring towns and showcasing regional dances and diverse folkloric cultural expressions—until it gained statewide renown, eventually being considered the second-largest festival in Amazonas. Due to a lack of public investment, the event stagnated between 1994 and 2008, after which it resumed on a sporadic basis. Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Autazes, the Folklore Festival has been part of local history for over fifty years; it has endured across generations and remains central to the memory and identity of Autazes, driving the community to fight for the preservation of this tradition. Since 2023, the event has taken place without interruption, featuring a grand scale that requires detailed planning and involves approximately six hundred people—including coordinators, performers, and members of the various acts presented in the arena. In doing so, it generates income, keeps young people productively engaged, and instills values of respect for the region's traditions and customs. The event fosters social interaction, stimulates the local economy and the tourism sector, and—above all—promotes the municipality, making it known for its unique cultural characteristics.