WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

With pleasure we INVITE Folk Ensembles, Choral Groups, Brass Bands, Orchestras, Modern Dance Groups, and Majorette Teams (children, youth, and adult groups) participate in XXXIII International Music & Dance Festival “DURRES FEST”, in Durres, Albania.

The intention of our invitation and the Festival light motive is to present the cultural tradition of different countries and to provide an opportunity for the members of groups to get together, to establish friendships and culture presentation through dance and music.The idea of the Festival is to bring the music closer to the people and to present the music on the streets and the squares.The festival is open for folk and choir ensembles, as well as orchestras and majorettes regardless of the members gender and age.

Durrës, one of Albania’s oldest and most captivating coastal cities, beautifully merges ancient heritage with vibrant seaside life. Situated on the Adriatic Sea, it is known for its long sandy beaches, lively promenade, and rich history dating back over 3,000 years. The city’s centerpiece, the Roman Amphitheatre—one of the largest in the Balkans—stands as a testament to its glorious past. Strolling through Durrës reveals a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences alongside modern cafés, seafood restaurants, and a bustling marina. With its golden sunsets and Mediterranean charm, Durrës offers the perfect mix of history, leisure, and coastal beauty.

 General Rules:

A maximum of 3 groups from each country may participate.
Each group should consist of no more than 70 members (including dancers, managers, musicians, and family members).
Groups must prepare at least 2 folk dances (10–15 minutes each, with orchestra or USB) or a 15-minute choral program.
Groups should provide a short CV, 5 photos, and a video link showcasing their performances.
Participants must bring their national flag.
Transport for arrival and departure must be arranged by the groups themselves.

Flights:
Low-cost flights are available via Wizz Air and Ryan Air to Tirana Airport.

 Accommodation Cost:

The festival will be held at Hotel Bonita (5★), a luxury hotel featuring an outdoor swimming pool, private beach, spa center, and gym.link of hotel: https://hotelbonita.al/luxury/
Accommodation is provided in double rooms for leaders and drivers. Triple rooms are also available.

Participation Fee:
153 EUR per person – 3 HB (3 nights with 2 meals)
193 EUR per person – 4 HB (4 nights with 2 meals)
233 EUR per person – 5 HB (5 nights with 2 meals)

After the festival, participants may extend their stay at the hotel for 45 EUR per person (HB).
Double room supplement: 10 EUR per person per day
Single room supplement: 20 EUR per person per day

 Festival organizers provide:

For 25 dancers – one gratis

Souvenir and gift for each group

Welcome cocktail with leaders

Certificate for attendance

Drinks during the performance

Advertising of the festival (press release, social media promotion, posters and flayers)

Free parking

Insurance: Groups must have their own personal responsibility and health insurance.

First aid and medical services will be available and covered by the group.

A tourist tax of 1 EUR per person per day is an additional cost.

Transportation: for groups who are coming by plane, we can arrange transport from Tirana airport to Durres. (Paid additionally).

 Program Information

Day 1
13:00 – Arrival in Durres, hotel accommodation, and free time (beach time)
18:00–19:00 – Dinner (buffet) in hotel
21:00 – Welcome reception with leaders of the groups

Day 2
09:00–10:00 – Breakfast (buffet)
11:00–15:00 – Sightseeing in Durres
18:00–19:00 – Dinner (buffet) in hotel
21:00–23:00 – Party at Bonita Pool

Day 3
09:00–10:00 – Breakfast (buffet)
10:30–15:00 – Beach time or optional visit to Kruja (entrance 2 EUR)
17:00–18:00 – Dinner (buffet) in hotel
19:30–23:00 – Defile on the main street leading to the square for the Opening of the Festival, followed by performances of each group

Day 4
09:00–10:00 – Breakfast (buffet)
10:30–15:00 – Beach time or optional visit to Kruja (entrance 2 EUR)
17:00–18:00 – Dinner (buffet) in hotel
21:00 – Party with all participants around the swimming pool

Day 5
09:00–11:00 – Breakfast (buffet)
11:00 – Departure of participants

COMMUNICATION STEPS

Step 1 — Apply

Fill out the online application form with your group details.

Step 2 — Confirmation

You’ll instantly receive an email confirming we got your application.

Step 3 — Application Number

Within 2 days you’ll receive your Application Number and required materials list.

Step 4 — Review

WOFA reviews your application and checks availability.

Step 5 — Acceptance

If accepted, you’ll receive an Invitation Letter and deposit instructions.

Deposit must be paid within 10 days.

Step 6 — Secure Your Spot

Send us your deposit confirmation. Your participation is officially confirmed.

Step 7 — Finalization

A WOFA coordinator will guide you through the final steps: participant list, travel details, and performance info.

 Important Details

The organizers provide a stage for all performances.
Festival location:https://www.google.com/maps/@41.3138911,19.4462747,83m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkwNy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

 The official festival program will be provided one month before arrival.

Festival Highlights

See videos of performances on our official YouTube playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8RE8ufsZ316vYNOijWI2d2Rjq-OaT24M

 Excursions Information

BERAT – UNESCO Full-Day Tour
Visit the historic city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique architecture of white Ottoman houses climbing the hill to the castle. Explore its fortress, old quarters, and rich cultural heritage.

KRUJA – Half-Day Tour
Discover the historic town of Kruja, the fortress of Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg, and its famous Ottoman-era bazaar, offering a glimpse into traditional Albanian culture.

TIRANA & KRUJA – Full-Day Tour
Experience the vibrant modern capital of Tirana combined with the historic legacy of Kruja. Explore Skanderbeg’s fortress and the colorful boulevards of Tirana.

TIRANA – Half-Day Tour
Explore Albania’s capital, visiting Skanderbeg Square, Ottoman and Italian architecture, and the city’s colorful buildings and lively cafés.

Divjakë–Karavasta National Park – Full-Day Tour
A nature excursion to one of the Balkans’ most unique ecosystems, home to the rare Dalmatian pelican. Explore wetlands, lagoons, and pine forests through birdwatching and light hiking.

 NEWS FROM THE FESTIVAL                                            Published on 25.06.2025

From  17-21 June  2025 in Durres  was held  XXXII International Music & Dance Festival “DURRES FEST”,with great success.

At the festival over 200 participants from Ukraine, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Poland

On the welcome reception with the leaders of the groups on 17 June director of the festival Mr Zoran Strezovski wished them welcome in the beautiful city and explained the detailed program.

On 19 June festival evening was held on the stage of the city of Bar where all ensembles had their performances. Organizers of the festivals were WOFA - World Festival Association

In 2023 the festival had over 300 participants and 6 ensembles from 6 EU countries..

NUMBER OF SEATS IS LIMITED on 280 participants and 8 ensembles!!

-----------------

Reviews from the groups:

This festival has review of 5 groups and average estimation is EXCELLENT - 9,3/10