WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

With pleasure, we invite folk ensembles, choral groups, art schools, majorette teams, orchestras, ballroom dance groups, and modern dance teams — including children, youth, and adult groups — to participate in the XXVI International Music & Dance Festival “MUSIC, DANCE AND SEA”, taking place from 3–7 September 2025 in Paralia, Katerini, Greece.

The festival aims to present the cultural traditions of different countries and provide an opportunity for members of groups to come together, establish friendships, and showcase their culture through dance and music. The festival’s idea is to bring music closer to the people and present it on the streets and squares.

 General Rules

The festival is a non-competitive showcase of traditional and modern dances and music performed by groups.
Children and youth folklore dance groups, modern dance groups, vocal groups, ballroom dance teams, art schools, instrumental groups, soloists, and performers from other art styles may participate.
Participation is limited to three groups from each country.
Each group may consist of up to 60 members including dancers, managers, and musicians.
Each ensemble should prepare at least two folk dances totaling 15–20 minutes with orchestra or USB.
Choral groups should prepare a free program of about 15 minutes.
Performances will take place in the evening, allowing for daytime excursions and sightseeing.
Participants should send a short CV and photos of their group.
Groups should bring their country’s flag.
Each group must arrange their own transportation for arrival and departure.

 Accommodation Information

Participants will stay in hotels such as Xenia Zeus, Ifigenia, Katerina, To Limani, and Bambus.

 Participation Fees

129 EUR per person for 3 nights and 4 days half board (HB).
155 EUR per person for 4 nights and 5 days half board (HB).
179 EUR per person for 5 nights and 6 days half board (HB).
All double and single rooms are available upon request. Multiple-bed accommodations are assigned based on availability.
Additional double rooms available at 12 EUR per person per day.
Additional single rooms available at 40 EUR per person per day.
Accommodation includes triple and quadruple rooms. Two double rooms are reserved for drivers and leaders.
A tourist tax of 2 EUR per person per day applies as an additional cost.

 Festival Organizers Provide

One free participant for every 24 dancers (e.g., 24+1, 48+2).
Souvenir and gift for each group.
Certificate of attendance.
Free parking.
Advertising of the festival via press releases, social media, and posters.

 Insurance

Health insurance and personal responsibility are the groups’ obligations.
Emergency medical services will be available but costs must be covered by participants.

 Extended Stay Information

Extended stays are available at 37 EUR per person per day (HB), special for festival participants.

 Program Information

Day 1 (3 September):
13:00 Arrival in Paralia, hotel check-in, and free time (beach).
18:00–19:00 Dinner.
21:00 Welcome reception with group leaders.

Day 2 (4 September):
09:00–10:00 Breakfast.
11:00 Free time (beach) or optional excursion to Thessaloniki or Katerini.
18:00–19:00 Dinner.
19:30–23:00 Joint party with all participants at Aloha Beach.

Day 3 (5 September):
09:00–11:00 Breakfast.
09:00–16:00 Optional boat excursion (€20 per person, includes lunch and drinks).
17:30–18:30 Dinner.
19:30 Festival evening in Paralia.

Day 4 (6 September):
09:00–10:00 Breakfast.
10:00–14:00 Free time (beach) or optional excursion to Meteora.
14:00–15:00 Lunch at a local restaurant.
18:00–19:00 Dinner.
21:00 Optional Greek night or free time for shopping.

Day 5 (7 September):
08:00–10:00 Breakfast.
10:30 Departure of participants.

 Excursions Information

Thessaloniki or Katerini Visit:
Guided exploration of these historic cities.

Boat Excursion:
Full-day adventure on Thermaikos Gulf including swimming stops, lunch on Variko Beach (grilled fish, Greek salad, drinks), relaxation, and optional beach activities.

Meteora Visit:
Visit to the world-famous historical monasteries and breathtaking views.

 Transportation

Transfers from Thessaloniki Airport (75 km from Paralia) can be arranged.
Costs depend on group size and will be agreed separately.