International Folklore Festival

Sozopol, Bulgaria

10 - 14

Jun 2026

2026

Bulgaria

Sozopol

10 - 14

Jun 2026

2026

Bulgaria

Sozopol

Host City

Sozopol is a historic town and seaside resort located in southeastern Bulgaria, in Burgas Province. It is approximately 35 kilometers south of Burgas, on the Black Sea coast, and is one of the oldest settlements in the country, founded in the 7th century BC as the ancient Greek colony Apollonia Pontica. Today, it is a popular destination combining rich history, art, and summer recreation. The town features picturesque cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and two main beaches – Central and Harmanite. The average temperature in July ranges from 26–28°C, making it ideal for tourism. Nearby attractions include the natural reserve of St. Ivan Island and Ropotamo Park.

Purpose of the Festival

The main goal of the organizers is to enable artistic ensembles to present their work and participate in a competitive program that highlights the best, while promoting their work. The festival provides a platform for cultural exchange, where participants can showcase their rich cultural heritage through various forms of folk art: music, song, and dance. Simultaneously, it strengthens the expression of cultural identity, promotes mutual respect and understanding among different nations and communities, encourages the formation of new friendships, and contributes to the preservation and promotion of traditional cultural elements, which are passed down from generation to generation through artistic performances.

Indicative Program

June 10

  • Early morning departure by bus from your area.
  • Reception of participants, guided tours, free program, beach.

June 11

  • Reception of participants, guided tours, free program, beach.
  • 4:00 PM – Meeting of the organizers with the artistic directors of the groups.

June 12

  • 9:00 AM – Guided tours, free program, beach.
  • 5:00 PM – Start of the competitive program.
  • 9:30 PM – End of the competitive program.

June 13

  • 9:00 AM – Guided tours, free program, beach.
  • 5:00 PM – Start of the competitive program.
  • 9:00 PM – Official closing ceremony and announcement of winners by category.
  • 9:30 PM – End of the program.

June 14

  • 12:00 PM – Check-out from hotels & departure of participants by bus.

The organizers reserve the right to change the program.

Awards

  • The festival also has a competitive character and is an official qualifying round of the World Association of Folklore Festivals system.
  • The grand prize is the Golden “Orpheus” and a diploma.
  • First prizes “Orpheus” in the respective categories and a diploma.
  • All participants receive an Honorary Symbol, a participation diploma, and titles in the corresponding ranks, at the discretion of the jury.
  • Recommendations for participation in a higher-level Championship.
  • The awarding of the final ranking winners takes place at a special ceremony after the end of the competitive program.
  • At the discretion of the jury and the production, distinguished artistic directors are honored with a Diploma conferring the title of Maestro or Maestro Academic.
  • All artistic directors, teachers, choreographers, and leaders of groups and ensembles also receive the festival’s Certificates of Appreciation.

Notes

  • The T-shirts with the logo (branded T-shirts) are manufactured according to the dimensions provided. You will receive a size chart upon ordering. Festival Packages 2 and 3 must be ordered at least 30 days before the start of the festival.
  • Information for personalized diplomas and branded badges must be submitted up to 30 days before the start of the festival.
  • For groups participating without using the organizers’ accommodation package, the accreditation fee increases by €10.00 per person.

 

Participation Fee (full package)

The participation cost is determined by the means of transport chosen by each club, as well as its departure region. Open Ways Events & Travel can provide you with comprehensive offers for all types of transportation (by road, by air), regardless of the departure point throughout Greece and abroad.

The Participation Fee Includes

  • Participation in the festival and the competitive program.
  • Professional sound, video, and lighting equipment.
  • Diplomas, awards, and presentation materials.
  • Accommodation in 2 / 3 / 4* hotels (triple or quadruple rooms).
  • Transportation from your area by 50-seater bus.
  • Accommodation and meal expenses for drivers.
  • Internal transfers / excursions in the cities you will visit.
  • Our agency’s fee.
  • Civil Liability Coverage.

The Participation Fee Does Not Include

  • Optional excursions.
  • Insurance.
  • Surcharge for a double room: €12.00 per person per day. Surcharge for a single room: 50% of the double room price.
  • Additional day: €48.00 / €53.00.
  • Anything not mentioned in the section “The Participation Fee Includes”.

Additional Packages

  • Festival Package 1 (Included in the Participation Fee)
  • Participation in the competition.
  • Printed program.
  • Poster, magnet with the festival logo.
  • Festival Package 2 – €18.00 per person (Optional)
  • Festival T-shirt with logo (branded).
  • Personal card / ID (branded badge).
  • Festival Package 3 for groups – €8.00 per person (Optional)
  • Personal medal.
  • Personal participation diploma.

Information

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