WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

FESTIVAL DETAILS

• Dates: October 3 – October 6, 2025
• Location: Sankt Michael im Lungau, Salzburg Lungau region, Austria

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

We are delighted to invite you to the XI International "Welcoming the Alps" Festival, held in the picturesque village of Sankt Michael im Lungau, nestled in Austria’s enchanting Salzburg Lungau region.This vibrant event honors the natural beauty of the Alps and celebrates cultural diversity through music, dance, and the arts. Each year, this international gathering becomes a hub of joy, talent, and cross-cultural connection. In 2025, you’ll enjoy a unique blend of performances on alpine stages, outdoor excursions in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and community spirit in one of Austria’s most charming regions.Whether you're a long-time friend of the festival or a first-time guest, we invite you to share your culture and create unforgettable memories with us in the heart of the Alps.

FESTIVAL PROGRAM

Day 1 – October 3, 2025

• Arrival in Sankt Michael im Lungau
• Hotel check-in and welcome from festival representatives
• Distribution of Lungau Card
• 19:00 – Welcome dinner with local specialties
• Evening at leisure

Day 2 – October 4, 2025

• 08:00 – Breakfast
• Daytime excursion options:

• E-Choo-Choo Train ride
• Chairlift to Aineck Peak (2,220m)
• Visit to indoor pool in Tamsweg
• Full-day trip to Salzburg (Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s Birthplace, Mirabell Gardens)
• 19:00 – Gala dinner and closing ceremony
• Final performances
• Awarding of diplomas and gifts

Day 3 – October 5, 2025

• 08:00 – Breakfast
• Morning excursions (optional):

• Visit to Mariapfarr and the Silent Night Museum
• Tour of Castle Mauterndorf
• 15:00 – Official opening ceremony on an outdoor stage
• Performances from international groups
• 19:00 – Dinner and free time

Day 4 – October 6, 2025

• 08:00 – Breakfast
• Group departures
• Optional excursions (for groups staying longer):

• Visit to Hallstatt (lake, salt mines)
• Visit to Murau (historic brewery town)

Note: Organizers reserve the right to make changes to the program based on logistics or weather.

PARTICIPATION RULES

Open to:

• Folk dance groups
• Orchestras
• Majorettes
• Modern dance groups
• Choirs and music bands

No participant limits or age restrictions
Each group must submit:

• Completed application form
• Group photos (at least 3)
• Brief group biography

All participants are responsible for their own transport.

PARTICIPATION FEE

• €135 – 2 nights / Bed & Breakfast (BB)
• €170 – 2 nights / Half Board (HB)
• €185 – 3 nights / Bed & Breakfast (BB)
• €235 – 3 nights / Half Board (HB)

Supplements:

• Double room: +€18 per person/day
• Single room: +€68 per person/day

INCLUDED IN THE PARTICIPATION FEE

✅ Festival concert participation
✅ Accommodation in 3* Hotels, Apartments, or Guesthouses
✅ Lungau Card (free entry to regional attractions)
✅ Diplomas and festival gifts

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PARTICIPATION FEE

❌ Transportation (arrival and departure)
❌ Optional tours and excursions
❌ Tourist tax (€2.50/person/day – paid on site)
❌ Insurance and personal expenses