Rhode Island Welcomes 2026 International Portuguese Music Awards

To all the good Portuguese people of the SouthCoast, I have one question for you: are you ready for a good time?

April is here, and with it comes the return of one of the most vibrant cultural celebrations in Rhode Island: the International Portuguese Music Awards.

Set to take over the Providence Performing Arts Center once again, the IPMAs shines a spotlight on Portuguese artists locally here on the SouthCoast and from around the world.

A Natural Fit for Rhode Island

Hosting the awards in Providence is no coincidence. With roughly one in every 12 residents identifying as Portuguese immigrants or descendants, the Ocean State has one of the strongest Portuguese communities in the country.

From Fall River to the International Stage

Closer to home, SouthCoast native Josh Pereira is earning well-deserved recognition on an international stage.

The Fall River artist is nominated for Best Rock Performance for his deeply personal track “Saudade,” a song that pulls directly from his roots and lived experience. With strong ties to São Miguel in the Azores, Pereira’s music is grounded in family, faith, and real-life moments, carried by a rugged, soulful voice that feels as authentic as it gets.

Courtesy Diane Fontes

“Saudade” is especially meaningful, written in memory of his close friend and musical partner, Manel “The Island Man.” The song balances heartbreak with warmth, capturing the kind of emotion that doesn’t need flash to hit hard. It’s that honesty that continues to define Pereira’s work, creating music that connects first and lets the recognition follow.

A Star-Studded Night of Music

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by Ricardo Farias and Daniela Ruah.

Photo: Djecy Ramos

The performance lineup is stacked with international talent, including:

Calema
D.A.M.A.
Richie Campbell
Assol Garcia
Nemanus
Nelson Sobral

From pop and rock to traditional fado and global fusion, the night will showcase the full spectrum of Portuguese music.

Awards Across Every Genre

The International Portuguese Music Awards recognize excellence across a wide range of categories, including Music Video of the Year, Song of the Year, New Talent, and the fan-favorite People’s Choice Award. Genres span everything from rap and hip-hop to traditional and instrumental performances, ensuring every corner of the Portuguese music scene gets its moment.

Don’t Miss It

The 2026 International Portuguese Music Awards take place on Friday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Tickets range from $75 to $130, and with a lineup like this, it’s expected to be a packed house.

If you’ve been looking for a night filled with culture, energy and unforgettable performances, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Additional reporting by Hannah Fraga

Here's a look back at previous IPMAs:

Scenes From The 10th Annual International Portuguese Award Show

On April 23rd, the Providence Performing Arts Center hosted the 10th annual International Portuguese Music Awards.

Gallery Credit: Gazelle

Fall River Photographer Captures the Pure Essence of Portuguese Culture

Helder Sousa has an eye for photography and a beautiful way of capturing the pure emotion of the Portuguese Romeiros, a group whose annual pilgrimage is a demonstration of faith and tradition.

Gallery Credit: Gazelle

5 Underrated Foods at New Bedford's Portuguese Feast

Besides the bifanas, cacoila and carne de espeto, here are five underrated Portuguese dishes and treats you have to try at the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament.

Gallery Credit: Gazelle