The XXX International Music & Dance Festival “Ohrid Lake” invites diverse groups such as folk ensembles, choral groups, orchestras, brass bands, majorette teams, modern dance groups, vocalists, instrumental groups, and soloists to participate in a vibrant, non-competitive festival. This renowned event will be held from June 28 to July 2 on Ohrid’s main square, showcasing the beauty of this historic region. Eligibility: Open to children, youth, and adult ensembles across various art styles. Each country may send up to 3 groups, with a maximum of 70 participants per group, including dancers, managers, musicians, and family members.
Performance Requirements:
Folk ensembles: At least two dances, 10-15 minutes each, with music accompaniment (USB or live orchestra).
Choirs: 10-15 minutes of free-category music.
Additional Requirements:
Groups are asked to bring their country’s flag.
Please submit a short USB video and photos of the group.
Each group should arrange their own transport for arrival and departure.
Provided by Festival Organizers:
One complimentary spot for every 24 dancers.
Souvenirs, certificates, and a welcome cocktail.
Organized disco party with drinks, festival guides, and drink provisions during performances.
Promotion of the festival through newsletters, social media, and posters.
Fees: Tourist tax and insurance fees of €1 per person per day are additional and required.
Accommodation Information
The World Festival Association offers a variety of accommodation options for a comfortable stay in Ohrid, from city-center hotels to lakeside properties. Bookings are on a first-come, first-served basis. Suggested Hotels:
Hotel Delago & District Villa (4-star): Located 100m from Ohrid’s main square.
BB (Bed & Breakfast): €99 for 3 nights / €132 for 4 nights / €164 for 5 nights
HB (Half Board): €114 for 3 nights / €149 for 4 nights / €189 for 5 nights
HB (Half Board): €119 for 3 nights / €149 for 4 nights
Hotel De Luks Apartments:
HB: €82 for 3 nights / €109 for 4 nights
FB: €99 for 3 nights / €129 for 4 nights
Additional 3- and 4-star hotels in the city center, including Hotel Plaza, Hotel Internacional, and Hotel Montenegrin, are available with various room configurations.
On your request, you can continue your stay in Ohrid. Price will be 35 Euro per day per person FB and 30 Euro in HB – price is special for the participants in festivals that we can provide. For additional days, we will prepare a special program for you.
Details will be provided upon application.
Program Information
Day 1:
Arrival and hotel check-in at 13:00.
Dinner at 19:00, followed by a welcome reception for group leaders at 21:00. Day 2:
Breakfast at 09:00, followed by sightseeing from 10:30 to 13:00.
Parade of ensembles through the old town at 19:30, festival opening ceremony at 20:00 with fireworks, performances, and group dancing. Day 3:
Breakfast at 09:00, followed by a visit to Struga or Ohrid’s cultural sites.
Workshop at 20:00 for groups to exchange and learn dances from each other. Day 4:
Breakfast at 09:00, followed by a boat cruise on Lake Ohrid with lunch and a stop at St. Naum Monastery.
Dinner at 19:00, with a disco party for participants from 21:00 to midnight. Day 5:
Breakfast at 09:00, followed by participant departures at 11:00.
Groups are welcome to extend their stay with special daily rates and additional excursions arranged by the organizers. Airport transfers from Ohrid, Skopje, Tirana, or Thessaloniki are available at extra cost.
Excursions Information
During the festival, groups are encouraged to explore Ohrid’s rich heritage and surrounding attractions, including the lake and nearby cities.
Highlights:
Ohrid Sightseeing: St. Sofia Church, Samoil Fortress, Antique Theatre, Plaosnik, St. Kaneo Church, and the Gallery of Icons. Cultural Sites Tour: The Cinar tree, Biljanini springs, Ohrid pearl and paper manufactories, and the historic town of Struga. Lake Ohrid Cruise & St. Naum Monastery: A full-day cruise on Lake Ohrid, including a visit to the Water Museum and St. Naum, with swimming at a popular beach (€12 per person). Extended Stay Options: Additional excursions to nearby villages like Vevcani and the cave church in Kalista are available for groups extending their stay.