XI International Dance & Music Festival OHRID SUNSET
Location: Ohrid, Macedonia
Director: Z.S.& WOFA
Application Deadline: 15 August, 2025
INVITATION
With pleasure we INVITE you—folk groups, choral groups, orchestras, and majorette teams (children, youth, and adult ensembles)—to participate in the XI International Dance & Music Festival “OHRID SUNSET” from 7 to 10 November 2025 in Ohrid, North Macedonia.
The aim of the festival is to present the cultural traditions of different nations, create opportunities for cultural exchange, and promote friendships through music and dance in one of the most beautiful lake cities in the Balkans.
FESTIVAL CONDITIONS
The festival is non-competitive and open to traditional and modern dance groups, vocal ensembles, instrumental groups, and solo performers.
Participation is limited to 3 groups per country.
Each group may consist of up to 60 members, including dancers, musicians, and staff.
Groups should prepare 2 choreographies of 10–15 minutes each (live orchestra or USB).
Performances will be held in the evening to allow daytime sightseeing.
Groups must send a short group description and 2–3 photos.
Each group should bring their national flag.
Transport must be arranged by participants.
ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION
The participation fee is 89 EUR per person for 3 nights with Half Board (breakfast and dinner).
It includes accommodation in 3-star hotels in the center of Ohrid, in double, triple, or quadruple rooms with private bathrooms.
On request, groups can extend their stay at a discounted rate of 29 EUR per day (Half Board).
Accommodation options include:
Hotel De Lux Apartments (city center)
Modern style apartments located centrally.
Hotel Montenegrin
https://www.montenegrininn.com
A charming hotel in the heart of Ohrid.
Villa Fortuna
A centrally located villa with in-house restaurant.
Additional Central Hotels (3 & 4-star)
Various room types available. Prices for extended stay and additional hotel options available upon request.
For every 20 participants, one person is free of charge.
FESTIVAL PACKAGE INCLUDES
Accommodation for 3 nights with Half Board
Participation in all festival activities
Souvenir and gift for each group
Welcome cocktail
Certificate of attendance
Drinks during performance
Festival guide and city orientation
Media coverage (press, social media, and posters)
INSURANCE
All participants are responsible for their own medical insurance. First Aid and hospital access will be available, but medical costs must be covered by the group.
PROGRAM
Day 1 – Arrival
13:00 – Hotel check-in and accommodation
19:00 – 20:00 – Dinner at the hotel
20:00 – Welcome reception with group leaders
Day 2 – Cultural Exploration & Festival Opening
09:00 – 11:00 – Breakfast
11:00 – 14:00 – Ohrid sightseeing tour (St. Sofia Church, Samoil Fortress, Antique Theatre, Plaosnik, Kaneo Church, Bridge of Wishes)
18:00 – Group Parade through the old town
18:30 – Official festival opening ceremony
20:30 – Dinner
Day 3 – Excursion Day (Optional)
09:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast
11:00 – 14:30 – Boat cruise on Ohrid Lake, visit to Museum on Water and St. Naum Monastery (optional, 11 EUR/person incl. lunch package)
16:00 – 18:00 – Free time for shopping in the city center
18:00 – 20:00 – Dinner
21:00 – Macedonian evening party (optional) or free evening
Day 4 – Departure
09:00 – Breakfast
11:00 – Departure of participants
Optional Extension (Day 4 & Day 5)
Groups staying longer can enjoy:
Day 4
10:30 – 14:00 – Visit Struga (Miladinovci House, Crni Drim River, Kalishta Cave Church)
14:00 – 15:00 – Lunch and free time
19:00 – 20:00 – Dinner
21:00 – 00:00 – Farewell party
Day 5
08:00 – 09:00 – Breakfast
09:00 – 14:00 – Guided tour to Skopje (Alexander the Great statue, Macedonian Gate, Stone Bridge, museums)
14:00 – Departure from Skopje
All excursions are optional and prices are available upon request.
EXCURSIONS (Optional)
Ohrid City Tour (included in base program)
Explore historical landmarks such as St. Sofia, Samoil Fortress, Ancient Theatre, Plaosnik, and Kaneo Church.
Ohrid Lake Cruise & St. Naum Monastery
A scenic cruise with a visit to the famous monastery and lakeside sites. Includes lunch package.
Struga Day Trip
Visit the cultural highlights of Struga and enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
Skopje Excursion
A guided city tour of the capital, including major monuments and museums.
Participants will also have ample free time for personal activities and shopping.