Gospel Choir to Perform at the National Wine Tourism Awards Gala

19/05/2026APENO – the Portuguese Association of Wine Tourism has announced the performance of the Saint Dominic’s Gospel Choir at the National Wine Tourism Awards Gala 2026, which will take place on 29 May at Quinta Conde de Valadares, in Loures.

The group’s performance — a nationally and internationally recognised gospel reference — forms part of the artistic programme of the gala and is also intended to acknowledge the growing importance of the North American market for tourism and wine tourism in Portugal.

“The North American market has been one of the fastest-growing in Portuguese tourism in recent years, and has today established itself as one of the most strategic markets for Portugal. We therefore felt it was fitting to pay tribute through a musical moment rooted in American culture, one that typically creates a strong connection with audiences. It is going to be a very lively evening,” said Maria João de Almeida, president of APENO.

According to data from TravelBI, the United States recorded approximately 2.37 million guests, 5.46 million overnight stays, and over 3.1 billion euros in tourism revenue in 2025, consolidating its position as one of Portugal’s leading source markets. Compared with the pre-pandemic period, the North American market has shown one of the most significant rates of growth in Portuguese tourism, with guest numbers running around 90 per cent above 2019 levels.

Founded on 7 October 2002, the Saint Dominic’s Gospel Choir quickly established itself within the Portuguese music scene and is now one of the most recognised gospel projects in the country. Over the course of its career, the group has garnered national and international acclaim, receiving praise from gospel luminaries including the Reverend Milton Biggham, Ricky Dillard, and Kirk Franklin.

The choir’s connection to the international gospel world was further cemented through its participation in the GMWA — Gospel Music Workshop of America — considered one of the most significant international gatherings in the gospel industry. During the pandemic, the group contributed to the track “The Best Day”, recorded remotely with several international artists, among them American singer Shantell Hankerson.

Led by João Castro, the Saint Dominic’s Gospel Choir surpassed the milestone of 1,400 concerts in 2025. With regular appearances at concert venues, institutional and corporate events, the group also maintains a frequent presence on Portuguese television and has collaborated with a number of national artists.

The performance is part of the programme of the 2026 National Wine Tourism Award Gala, an annual initiative that brings together professionals, producers, municipalities, regional tourism bodies, and companies connected to the wine, tourism and hospitality sectors.

The event recognises projects and initiatives that contribute to the promotion of national wine tourism, the territory, and Portuguese wine culture, drawing representatives from several regions of the country.

The 2026 edition takes place at Quinta Conde de Valadares in Loures and is held under the High Patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic.