WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

We are pleased to invite folk ensembles, choral groups, orchestras, brass bands, modern dance groups, and majorette teams of all ages (children, youth, and adults) to the XVI. International Folk Dance & Music Festival in Bodrum, Türkiye, taking place from 31 August – 06 September 2025. The festival brings together ensembles from around the world to celebrate dance, music, and culture in the beautiful coastal town of Bodrum, offering opportunities to engage with local culture, explore historical landmarks, and enjoy the stunning beaches. Participants will meet new people and build international friendships.

CONDITIONS FOR PARTICIPATION
There is no limit on the number of dancers. Participants must be 14 years or older. Twenty plus one participants will be hosted free of charge. Performance duration is 5-10 minutes per group, with playback or live instruments. Groups must bring their national flag and provide group photos upon application. Groups must arrive and depart with their own transport, which will be used throughout the festival. Free parking is available during the festival. Each group will receive three commemorative gifts. Guide assistance is provided from arrival to departure. Protocol visits with the Governor, Mayor, and Chamber of Commerce President are included. Festival DVD and photos will be sent to each group after the event.

 ACCOMMODATION

Participants will be accommodated in rooms with 2-3-4 beds and private bathrooms at selected hotels: Grand Didyma Hotel, Meryemana Hotel, Pamukkale Hotel, Efsane Hotel, and Mood Hotel. Hotel allocation will be managed by the organizing committee. Each group is responsible for personal health insurance. First aid and hospital services are available, but medical costs must be covered by participants.

PARTICIPATION FEES
Hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner (open buffet) is €35 per person per day. Twenty plus one free accommodation is arranged.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Application deadline is 30 May 2025. Groups must fill out and submit the application form. A 10% deposit should be paid 10 days after the application is sent. A 20% deposit of the total participation fee must be paid by 30 May 2025. Invitation letters will be sent upon deposit payment.

 PROGRAM INFORMATION

Day 1
13:00 – Arrival and hotel check-in. Free time to relax or enjoy the beach.
14:00–16:00 – Lunch at the hotel.
18:00–21:00 – Dinner at the hotel.
21:00–22:30 – Welcome meeting with the festival director and group leaders. Orientation and overview of festival activities.

Day 2
08:00–10:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
10:00–16:00 – Optional boat excursion with swimming and lunch on board.
16:00–19:00 – Free time for rest, beach, or individual activities.
19:00–21:00 – Dinner at the hotel.
21:00–23:00 – Festival presentations with group performances at the festival stage.

Day 3
08:00–10:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
11:00 – Official reception with the Mayor of Bodrum; presentation of gifts to group leaders.
13:00–14:00 – Lunch at the hotel.
14:00–17:00 – Optional excursions or beach time for participants.
17:00–19:00 – Preparation for evening performances.
19:00–21:00 – Dinner at the hotel.
21:00–23:00 – Opening ceremony with parade of all festival groups, followed by evening performances and awarding of certificates.

Day 4
08:00–10:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
11:00–17:00 – Full-day optional excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus or local sightseeing and beach activities.
13:00–14:00 – Lunch during excursions or at the hotel (depending on chosen activity).
17:00–19:00 – Free time or rehearsal for evening performances.
19:00–21:00 – Dinner at the hotel.
21:00–23:00 – Second festival evening with performances and cultural exchange.

Day 5
08:00–10:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
11:00 – Check-out and departure.

Optional Extended Stay
Additional days include meals, beach relaxation, and optional evening activities such as farewell parties or informal group performances.

 EXCURSIONS INFORMATION

During the festival, participants will have opportunities to explore Bodrum and its surroundings. Optional excursions include a boat trip with stops for swimming and lunch, visits to Bodrum’s historic Old Town, and a day trip to Ephesus. Local highlights include Bodrum with its resort beaches, yacht-filled harbor, and historical sites, and the ancient city of Ephesus with well-preserved ruins.