WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

We are pleased to invite folk ensembles, choral groups, orchestras, brass bands, modern dance groups, and majorette teams (children and youth) to participate in the XI International Çanakkale Children & Youth Folk Dance and Music Festival, taking place from 20–24 April 2026 in Çanakkale, Turkey. The festival aims to celebrate cultural traditions from around the world and provide an opportunity for participants to form international friendships through the presentation of dance and music. The festival welcomes all folk and choir ensembles, orchestras, and majorette teams, regardless of age or gender. Groups will have the opportunity to perform in public spaces, bringing music and dance closer to the people. To express interest, groups must submit a completed Application Form, along with a brief CV and a minimum of three photos of the group. All participant information, including names, surnames, gender, dates of birth, and passport numbers, must be provided by 10 April 2025.

ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION

Accommodation will be provided at Kumru Hotels in Çanakkale with two meals per day (breakfast and dinner). The participation fee for three nights with two meals per day is 100 Euros per person, and for four nights with two meals per day is 130 Euros per person. Accommodation is offered in 2* or 3* hotel rooms with triple and quadruple occupancy, with additional fees for double or single rooms. Each group will receive a souvenir and gift, as well as a certificate of attendance. For groups of 25 participants, one leader is entitled to complimentary participation. Additional costs include 7 Euros per person per day for a double room, 15 Euros per person per day for a single room, and 35 Euros per person per day for extra nights. Groups must pay a 10% guarantee fee in advance, which will be deducted from the final payment, and a 20% deposit for accommodation booking. The remaining payment is due before the festival or upon arrival as agreed with the organizers. The participation fee does not cover transportation, optional tours, insurance, or any other expenses not explicitly stated.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

On 20 April, participants will arrive in Çanakkale, check in at the hotel, and have free time. Dinner will be served at 18:30, followed by a meeting with the festival director and choreographer at 20:30. On 21 April, breakfast will be served from 07:00 to 10:00, followed by an optional visit to Çanakkale city, Cordon, and the ancient Bazaar, or free time. At 16:00, an open-air performance will take place, followed by dinner at 19:00. On 22 April, breakfast is from 07:00 to 10:00, followed by free time until 15:00. From 16:00 to 19:00, the festival party will take place, and dinner will follow from 19:00 to 20:00. On 23 April, breakfast is from 07:00 to 09:00, followed by an open-air performance from 10:00 to 12:00. From 16:00 to 18:00, the gala performance will be held, followed by dinner at 19:30. On 24 April, breakfast will be served from 07:00 to 10:00, and groups will depart at 12:00. The organizers reserve the right to modify the schedule if necessary.

EXCURSIONS INFORMATION

During free time, participants may explore the city of Çanakkale, including the city center, Cordon, and the ancient Bazaar, as well as historical sites such as Alexandria Troas, Assos, Gallipoli Peninsula, the ancient city of Troy, and the Apollo Smintheus Sanctuary. Optional tours are available at additional cost. Free time is available on 21 and 22 April, with a festival party on 22 April and a gala performance on 23 April. Detailed excursion and tour options will be provided closer to the festival dates.