WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

 We invite you to take part in the International Festival of Folklore, Music, and Dance in Istanbul, Turkey.
This non-competitive cultural gathering brings together folklore groups, orchestras, majorette teams, modern dance groups, choirs, and music bands from around the world.
It is a celebration of unity through art and tradition in one of the most vibrant and historic cities in the world — Istanbul.

 PARTICIPATION INFORMATION

Eligible groups include folklore ensembles, orchestras, majorette teams, modern dance groups, choirs, and music bands.
This is a non-competitive event featuring both traditional and modern performances.
Groups should prepare at least two dances lasting 8–12 minutes each, performed using either USB recordings or live orchestras.
Each group should bring their national flag and at least four gifts for official visits.

Application Process:
To apply, groups must submit a completed and signed Application Form, confirming acceptance of the festival’s terms and conditions.
Each group should also provide a short CV and at least six photos by email.
A full list of participants (including names, gender, date of birth, and passport numbers) must be submitted before the deadline.
Only three groups from each country may participate.

Additional Notes:
Groups are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Istanbul.
For groups arriving by plane, the festival committee will provide free airport and festival transfers.

 ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION

Participants will stay at either the 5-star Marinem Princess Hotel Kumburgaz or the 5-star Eser Hotel in Büyükçekmece, Istanbul.

Participation Fees:
144 EUR per person for 3 nights with breakfast (Half Board).
179 EUR per person for 4 nights with breakfast (Half Board).
Additional days can be booked for 40 EUR per person per day with breakfast.
For every 25 participants, one group leader will stay free of charge.

Room Supplements:
Double room – 10 EUR per person per day.
Single room – 18 EUR per person per day.

Fee Includes:
Accommodation in 5-star hotels (3-bedded rooms), half board (breakfast and one additional meal), participation in festival concerts, professional sound, stage, and lighting equipment, welcome cocktail for group leaders, souvenirs and gifts for each group, certificate of attendance, and drinks during performances.

Fee Does Not Include:
Transport for arrival and departure, optional boat tours, and insurance.

 FESTIVAL PROGRAM

Day 1
14:00 – Arrival in Istanbul, hotel check-in, and free time.
21:00 – Welcome reception for group leaders.

Day 2
07:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast.
10:00 – 15:00 – Istanbul sightseeing tour with a local guide (visiting Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Byzantine Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, and more). Optional Bosphorus boat tour (25 EUR).
19:30 – Ensemble parade.
20:00 – Official festival opening ceremony with welcome speech, open-air performances, and cultural dance exchange.

Day 3
07:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast.
10:00 – 18:00 – Visits to Galata Tower, Taksim Square, and Uskudar – Maiden’s Tower.
20:00 – Optional second festival evening.

Day 4
07:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast.
10:00 – 13:00 – Optional visit to Maiden’s Tower or Princess Island (boat tour).
21:00 – Workshop and folklore party at the hotel.

Day 5
07:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast.
12:00 – Departure.

 EXCURSION INFORMATION

While participating in the festival, groups will have the opportunity to explore Istanbul, a city that bridges Europe and Asia, known for its rich cultural heritage and modern attractions.

Optional Excursions:
Bosphorus Boat Tour – 25 EUR per person (museum tickets not included).
Visits to Maiden’s Tower – Uskudar or Princess Island (boat tour).