WorldFestivalAssociation

I N V I T A T I O N

   With pleasure we INVITE (folk ensembles, choral groups, orchestras, brass bands, modern dance groups, and majorette teams...) (children and youth) to participate in XI “International Çanakkale  CHILDREN & YOUTH Folk Dance and Music Festival” 

20 – 24 April 2026 Çanakkale, Turkiye.

  The intention of our invitation and the Festival 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 trough 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 member’s gender and age.

Çanakkale, adorned with its extensive and azure-flagged beaches, stands out as one of the most significant and captivating tourist destinations situated at the entrance of the Aegean Sea. The historical narrative of Çanakkale unfolds from the ancient city of Troy, the backdrop of the Trojan Wars, and extends to the triumph of Çanakkale. This historically rich city is nestled in the Marmara Region. The festival is set to take place in the heart of Çanakkale, providing groups with the opportunity to explore the city and the remnants of these two historical marvels during their leisure time.

With its blend of natural wonders and historical treasures, Çanakkale holds a unique position globally as the site where the ancient city of Troy witnessed numerous destructions and rebuilds. Noteworthy locations include Alxandria Troas, Anatolia's largest ancient city, recognized as the capital by Emperor Constantine; Assos, where Aristotle, a pivotal figure in history, spent a portion of his life; the Apollo Smintheus Sanctuary; Parion near Biga Kemer; Neandreia, once home to the Aiolia Temple; the Zeus Altar, mentioned by Homer in the renowned Iliad; Babakale, Çimenlik, and Kilitbahir castles; the Gallipoli Peninsula, the stage of one of the bloodiest battles of the 20th century; the historic town of Gallipoli; Turkey's largest island, Gokceada; Bayramiç Ayazma with its natural splendor; and Bozcaada, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and wines, securing its place among the top 10 islands of authentic Europe. All these treasures in the Turkish Riviera and an abundance of enjoyment await you at our festival. Come and partake in the most extraordinary festival experience. Travel and dance with us in Çanakkale, Turkey…

Festival program:

20 April 

14.00 Arriving in Çanakkale, hotel accommodation after the meeting with the festival representatives

and free time

18.30 – 19.30 Diner in hotel

20.30 Meeting (with director and choreographer)

21 April

07.00 – 10.00 Breakfast

10.00 – 14.00 Visiting Çanakkale city, Cordon of the city and ancient Bazaar (optional) or free time

16:00 Open air performance

19.00 – 20.00 Diner in hotel

22 April 

07.00 – 10.00 Breakfast

09.00 – 15.00 free time

16.00 – 19.00 festival party

19.00 – 20.00 Diner in hotel

23 April 

07.00 – 09.00 Breakfast

10.00 – 12.00 open air performance

16:00 – 18 :00 Gala performance

19.30 – 20.30 Diner in hotel

24 April 

07.00 – 10.00 Breakfast

12.00 Departure

*Festival organizers keep the right to chance the festival schedule

General rules for participation:

• The festival welcomes participation from folklore groups, orchestras, majorettes, modern

dance groups, choirs, and music bands hailing from various corners of the globe.

• Ensembles are required to prepare a minimum of two dances, each lasting 8-15 minutes, to

be presented with a USB or live orchestra.

• Folklore groups are expected to bring their country's flag and a few gifts for municipal visits.

• To express interest in participating, any group must complete and submit an Application

form. Submission of filled and signed applications implies agreement with the terms outlined

in the present regulations.

• Groups are requested to forward a brief CV and a minimum of three photos of the group via

email.

• By April 10, , each group must provide a list of participants, including names, surnames,

genders, dates of birth, and passport numbers.

• Folklore groups should arrange for their own transportation for both arrival and departure

Participation fee:

-  100 Euro for 3 HB per person (3 nights with 2 meals per day)

-  130 Euro for 4 HB per person (4 nights with 2 meals per day)

It covers hotel accommodation (leaders and drivers are provided 2 double rooms, the rest will stay in

triple and quadruple rooms) with 2 meals per day in Kumru HOTELS in Çanakkale, Turkey.

An additional day can be reserved at 35 euros per person per day.

For groups comprising 25 persons, one group leader is entitled to complimentary

participation (24 paying + 1 free).

The participation fee covers:

 Participating to the festival concerts

 Professional sound, stage, and light equipment

 Accommodation in 2* or 3* Hotels (3-4 bedded rooms, with a supplemental cost of 7€ per

person per day for a double room and 15€ per person per day for a single room)

 Half-board hotel accommodation

 A souvenir and gift for each group

 A certificate of attendance

The participation fee excludes:

 Transportation (for arrival and departure)

 Optional Tour Programs

 Insurance

 Anything not explicitly stated in the section the fee includes above.

Any group willing to participate must submit an Application form.  

Approved groups pay in advance a 10% guarantee fee, which is to be deducted at the final

payment. Next payment of 20% for booking of accommodation needs to be sent to the organizer. Rest of the sum will be paid before the beginning of the festival or upon arrival regarding the permission and agreement with organizers.