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WOFAWorld Festival Association

XXII INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “LAKE OF TRADITIONS” 2027

Date:
26–30 Jul 2027 · 5 days / 4 nights
Location:
Ohrid, North Macedonia
Categories:
All Performance
Director:
Z.S. & WOFA
Application deadline:
15 Nov 2026
Status:
Last 2 days
Price:€119Application Form

Applying is free. No payment is taken when you apply.

About the festival

Ohrid, North Macedonia, known as the “Pearl of the Balkans,” is a UNESCO World Heritage destination famous for its lake, historic churches, traditional old town and rich cultural heritage.

The festival brings together international groups for performances in one of the region’s most attractive destinations.

Participation conditions

Participation rules

Who Can Participate

Category: All Performing Arts. The festival welcomes:

  • Folk dance groups
  • Modern dance groups
  • Choirs
  • Majorette teams
  • Brass bands
  • Orchestras

There is no age limit and no limit on the number of participants.

Group Preparation

  • Bring your national flag.
  • Prepare a board with the group name and country.
  • Bring approximately 12–15 small gifts for cultural exchange.
  • Send a CV, photos and videos for promotional purposes.
  • Arrange your own transport to Ohrid.

Health Insurance & Personal Responsibility

Personal responsibility and health insurance are required for all groups. First aid and medical services are available.

Performance and stage requirements

  • Each group should prepare a performance of approximately 12–15 minutes.
  • Groups may perform with a live orchestra or recorded music on CD/USB.

Accommodation & prices

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Booking and payment terms

Groups must submit the required application and promotional information according to the organizer’s instructions.

Festival programme

  1. Day 1

    Monday 26 July

    Arrival in Ohrid

    • 13:00

      Arrival, welcome by the organizer, program meeting and hotel accommodation.

    • 19:00–20:00

      Dinner at the hotel.

  2. Day 2

    Tuesday 27 July

    Ohrid Sightseeing & Festival Opening

    • 09:00–10:00

      Breakfast.

    • 10:00–14:00

      Guided sightseeing of Ohrid and cultural monuments.

    • 18:00

      Dinner at the hotel.

    • 19:00

      Parade of participating ensembles through the Old Town.

    • 20:00

      Official festival opening with welcome speech, fireworks and outdoor performances.

  3. Day 3

    Wednesday 28 July

    Lake Ohrid Cruise & Festival Evening

    • 09:00–10:00

      Breakfast.

    • 10:00–15:30

      Optional boat cruise on Lake Ohrid, including the Museum on Water and St. Naum Monastery.

    • 17:00–19:30

      Dinner at the hotel and parade of ensembles.

    • 20:00

      Second festival evening with all participating groups.

  4. Day 4

    Thursday 29 July

    Ohrid / Struga & Closing Activities

    • 08:00–10:00

      Breakfast.

    • 10:00–14:00

      Visit to Stara Carsija, Biljanini Izvori, Ohrid pearl factory and shopping, or optional visit to Struga.

    • 14:00–15:00

      Lunch.

    • 19:00–00:00

      Optional traditional Macedonian dinner with live music, entertainment and certificate-awarding ceremony.

  5. Day 5

    Friday 30 July

    Departure

    • 09:00

      Breakfast.

    • 11:00

      Departure of participants.

Excursions and transfers

Excursions

Optional Excursions

1. Lake Ohrid Boat Cruise & St. Naum Monastery

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise across Lake Ohrid to the historic St. Naum Monastery. Explore the famous natural springs, beautiful lakeside surroundings, and one of North Macedonia's most important cultural landmarks.

2. Macedonian Wine & Traditional Food Tasting – Ostrovo

Discover authentic Macedonian flavors through a tasting experience featuring selected local wines and traditional dishes at the beautiful Ostrovo Restaurant near St. Naum. Non-alcoholic alternatives are available.

3. Ohrid Old Town – Guided Cultural Tour

Explore Ohrid's UNESCO-listed cultural heritage, including Samuil's Fortress, the Kaneo Church viewpoint, historical streets, traditional architecture, and spectacular views of Lake Ohrid.

4. Struga – City & Black Drin River

Discover the picturesque town of Struga, enjoy a guided walk along the Black Drin River, explore local cultural attractions, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this lakeside destination.

Available with the group's own transportation or transportation arranged by WOFA.

5. Skopje & Matka Canyon – Full-Day Excursion

Explore North Macedonia's capital, including Skopje's main square, the Stone Bridge, and the historic Old Bazaar. Continue to Matka Canyon to discover its spectacular cliffs, natural scenery, and beautiful walking areas.

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Apply for this festival

XXII INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “LAKE OF TRADITIONS” 2027

26–30 Jul 2027 · Ohrid, North Macedonia · Apply by 15 Nov 2026

Application Form

Questions about this festival? Contact our team

From €119 / person

26–30 Jul 2027

Application Form