WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

We invite you to join us in the beautiful Hersonissos – Heraklion, on Crete Island, Greece.

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The Municipality of Hersonissos combines historical heritage with modern tourism, offering a lively, welcoming atmosphere for visitors from around the world.

The festival welcomes traditional folk dance groups, choirs, and orchestras from all countries.

General participation rules state that performances should last up to ten minutes and may be accompanied by a live orchestra or CD/USB. Groups are asked to bring their national flag and banner, if available. There are no age limits or restrictions on the number of participants. The completed Entry Form should be submitted by 20 May 2026, and the advance payment is due by 30 May 2026.

The event is organized by Open Ways Events & Travel – Folkway in cooperation with the Municipality of Hersonissos and local cultural associations.

 ACCOMMODATION

Participation Fee (Full Package – 5 days / 4 nights)

210 EUR per person for a 3-star hotel with half board
330 EUR per person for a 4-star hotel with half board

The full package includes accommodation in double or triple rooms, half board with breakfast and lunch or dinner, participation in all festival events, individual certificates, souvenirs, photos, videos, a traditional feast with unlimited drinks and live music, and transfers between the hotel and event venues. One free place is provided for every 25 participants.

Not included are extra nights, priced at 45 EUR per person per day in 3-star hotels or 74 EUR per person per day in 4-star hotels, optional excursions, and medical care or insurance.

Simple participation without accommodation is available at 35 EUR per person.

 PROGRAM

Day 1 – Thursday, 24 September 2026
Arrival in the afternoon and hotel check-in at 14:00.
Welcome meeting with the festival representative.
Free time for rest, swimming, or exploring Hersonissos.
Dinner.

Day 2 – Friday, 25 September 2026
Breakfast.
Free day with optional excursions.
At 20:00, traditional feast with live Greek music, DJ, dinner, and unlimited drinks, followed by the distribution of gifts and certificates.

Day 3 – Saturday, 26 September 2026
Breakfast.
Free day with optional excursions.
Lunch.
At 18:30, departure to the performance venue in traditional costumes.
Festival performance with souvenirs and traditional drinks.

Day 4 – Sunday, 27 September 2026
Breakfast.
Free time or optional excursions.
Lunch.
At 18:30, departure to the performance venue in traditional costumes.
Evening performance with memorial gifts from the Municipality.

Day 5 – Monday, 28 September 2026
Breakfast and departure.

 EXCURSIONS

Optional excursions include guided tours of Hersonissos and the surrounding region, as well as cultural and historical tours across Crete. Prices vary depending on the number of participants.

Additional services such as transfers by bus or air, extra nights, and tailor-made guided tours are available upon request.