WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

Welcome to the VI. International Folklore Festival in Istanbul! Held in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia, this festival is a celebration of cultural-artistic expression, unity, and tradition. With iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul provides the perfect stage for your performance and an unforgettable cultural experience.

 Festival Highlights

• Open to folk ensembles, dance groups, and cultural-artistic performers.
• Welcomes children, youth, and adult groups.
• Experience Istanbul’s rich history, architecture, and cultural diversity.
• Visit famous landmarks including the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Camlica viewpoint.

 Participation Details

Eligibility & Rules

• Maximum 3 groups per country.
• Group composition and limit (e.g., 50 persons per group) to be specified.
• All groups must bring their national flag.
• Performance duration: To be confirmed (live or recorded music accepted).
• Each group must send a CV and group photos via email.
• Transportation to Istanbul is arranged by the group.
• Transfers within Istanbul are available at extra cost.

 Participation Fee Options

Accommodation Packages (3 Nights):

Option 1 – €145 per person

• Stay at 4-star hotels (e.g., Hotel Martinenz, Hotel Ilkbal De Luxe)
• Breakfast included

Option 2 – €135 per person

• Stay at 3- or 4-star hotels (e.g., Hotel Glorius, Hotel Barin, The Biancho Old City)
• Breakfast included

Additional Costs:

• Double room surcharge: €5 per person per night
• Dinner: €10–15 per person per night (depending on hotel)

Included by Organizers:

• Invitation letter
• Diplomas and plaques for participating groups
• 1 free participation per 25 performers
• Comfortable hotel rooms in single, double, or group arrangements

 Festival Program

Day 1 – 13 November 2025

• Arrival in Istanbul
• Optional city sightseeing tour (Golden Horn, Bosphorus Bridge, Camlica viewpoint, Dolmabahçe Palace)
• Check-in at hotel
• Welcome meeting for group representatives

Day 2 – 14 November 2025

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Optional sightseeing tour of Istanbul’s historic core (Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace)
• Free time for shopping or personal activities
• Return to hotel

Day 3 – 15 November 2025

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Rehearsals and sound checks
• Official opening of the VI. International Folklore Festival
• Performances by all groups
• Diploma presentations
• Optional final hangout for all participants

Day 4 – 16 November 2025

• Breakfast
• Hotel check-out
• Optional “Joyful Istanbul” tour (Miniaturk Park, Balat, Fener neighborhoods)
• Optional Bosphorus Cruise
• Departure from Istanbul

 Optional Excursions (Extra Paid)

• City Tour – Golden Horn, Bosphorus Bridge, Camlica viewpoint: from €10
• Historic Core Tour – Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace: from €20
• Joyful Istanbul Tour – Miniaturk Park, Balat, Fener: from €20
• Bosphorus Cruise – Scenic boat trip between Europe and Asia: from €25
• Traditional Turkish Night – Dinner with unlimited drinks & live entertainment: €35

 Application & Contact

• Groups must submit their CV and photos via email.
• Participant numbers and group limits to be finalized by the organizers.
• Transport to Istanbul must be arranged by the groups.
• Registration is now open!