WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

With pleasure we INVITE you (Folk ensembles, Ballroom dance teams, Art schools, Music theatre, Modern dance teams, Orchestras, and Majorette teams), (children and youth groups) to participate in the XXXV International Folklore Festival “ATATARIA LAMZDŽIAI” 2026, taking place from 06 – 08 June in Kaunas, Lithuania.

The theme of the Festival is EARTH, reflecting the traditional Lithuanian respect for the land as a source of life, prosperity, and national pride. Participants are encouraged to present folklore performances aligned with this theme. The festival aims to promote ethnic culture, folklore traditions, and national consciousness while fostering intercultural cooperation and artistic excellence. Objectives include organizing diverse cultural events for all age groups, offering engaging performances showcasing traditional folklore, and encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing between folklore ensembles. Interested folklore groups must complete the online participant application by April 4, 2026.

 PARTICIPATION INFORMATION

Eligible Participants: Folk ensembles, Ballroom dance teams, Art schools, Music theatre, Modern dance teams, Orchestras, and Majorette teams (children and youth groups).

Performance Requirements: Programs should align with the festival theme EARTH and include authentic singing, storytelling, instrumental, and choreographic folklore.

Performance Durations: Stage performances last 10-20 minutes, outdoor city performances (streets, squares) last 30-40 minutes, and instrumental and choreographic folklore performances last 20-30 minutes including audience participation. All performances must be live and no pre-recorded audio is allowed.

ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION

International Ensembles can include a maximum of 20 people per group including leaders, drivers, and assistants. Additional members must cover their own travel, accommodation, and meals. Participants may arrive a day before and leave a day after the festival depending on flight schedules. Travel costs must be covered by participants.

The participation fee is €40 per person per day, covering accommodation, meals, cultural programs, and transport within Kaunas. Fee exemptions are available for groups arranging their own accommodation, meals, and transport or if the festival secures sponsorship covering these costs. The payment deadline is May 23, 2025, and no refunds are issued for cancellations.

 PROGRAM INFORMATION

Performances should include authentic singing, storytelling, instrumental, and choreographic folklore in alignment with the festival theme EARTH. All stage and outdoor performances, as well as instrumental and choreographic programs, will take place at Kaunas National Culture Centre and other locations throughout the city.

 EXCURSIONS INFORMATION

The festival will offer cultural activities and excursions to provide participants with an immersive experience of Lithuanian heritage. Groups may request their own dedicated concert or musical night by informing the organizers at least two months in advance. The festival locations include Kaunas National Culture Centre (A. Jakšto str. 18, Kaunas) and other city landmarks, allowing participants to enjoy both performances and the rich cultural environment of Kaunas.