WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

Istanbul, a city where continents meet, is bounded by the Black Sea to the north and the Sea of Marmara to the south. The Bosphorus Strait divides the city, with its western half in Europe and its eastern half in Asia. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and bustling metropolis, Istanbul is a hub of social and artistic life. Every year, we organize festivals for children and youth, offering participants an opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s unique charm. Join our festival and experience the mystery of the Bosphorus Sea.

Festival Details

The festival begins on 14 July 2025 at 16:00 and concludes on 18 July 2025 at 10:00.
Participants must be 8 years old and above. Eligible groups include singing ensembles, majorettes, choruses, folk dance troupes, and modern dance groups. Performances should last 5, 10, or 15 minutes, and groups may use live music or pre-recorded tracks (CD). Photos of participating groups must be sent to the organizing team.

Preliminary Program

• Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul in the afternoon. Free time followed by dinner and a meeting with group leaders.
• Day 2: After breakfast, groups will visit the Byzantine historic district, including the Blue Mosque (free entry), St. Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Free time will be followed by dinner and performances at an open-air municipality stage.
• Day 3: Breakfast will be followed by shopping at a local center or a visit to the Marmara Sea beach for groups wishing to enjoy the seaside. Festival performances will take place at an open-air municipality stage, where groups will also teach their country’s traditional dances for entertainment purposes. Participants will learn traditional Turkish rhythms and dances.
• Day 4: A special Bosphorus boat tour (20 Euro per person) will be organized, or groups can choose to go shopping. The day ends with performances at the open-air municipality stage.
• Day 5: Departure from Istanbul.

Note: The organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program.

Participation Fee

The participation fee is 195 Euro per person for 4 nights, including breakfast, dinner, and accommodation in a 3-star hotel with 2-3 beds per room and private toilets and showers. Groups larger than 30 people receive one free leader or driver (30+1). For groups of 45 people or more, two leaders or drivers participate free of charge (45+2).

Exclusions

The participation fee does not include transportation to festival venues and excursions. Groups are responsible for their own transportation costs. A special Bosphorus boat tour can be arranged for an additional 20 Euro per person. Diesel fuel will not be provided for group buses.

Airport Transfer Costs (Round Trip)

• 42 people on the bus: 25 Euro per person
• 30 people on the bus: 30 Euro per person
• 20 people on the bus: 35 Euro per person
• 10 people on the bus: 40 Euro per person

For groups arriving by plane, a bus will be provided for all ground transportation during the festival. This includes airport transfers, excursions to the historical areas on the European side (one-time visit), and transfers to performance venues. The transportation fee must be paid to the festival committee on the first day.

Medical Insurance

All participants are required to secure their own medical insurance before attending the festival. The organizing committee will not cover any medical or hospital expenses. However, emergency ambulance services will be provided if necessary.

Application & Payments

Groups must submit an application form to confirm participation. Approved groups are required to pay a 10% guarantee fee in advance, which will be deducted from the final payment. Hotel reservations will be secured after 20% of the total fee is deposited.

This festival is an incredible opportunity to explore Istanbul’s rich culture, make lasting connections, and share your artistic talents. Join us for a magical celebration of art and culture along the Bosphorus!