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World FestivalAssociation
FestivalsNorth Macedonia
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Official WOFA festivalMixed / All PerformanceApplications open

XXII INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “LAKE OF TRADITIONS” 2027

Destination
Ohrid, North Macedonia
Dates
26–30 Jul 2027
Length
5 days · 4 nights
Apply by
26 Mar 2027
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OverviewGalleryProgramStay & pricesTravelDetails

Overview

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.

Program

Day by day

Monday 26 July

Arrival in Ohrid

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

  2. Dinner at the hotel.

Stay & prices

Participation & prices

Booking & Payment Terms

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

Plan your arrival

Travel & Logistics

Ohrid

Full destination guide

Closest airports

  • Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) — ~10 km (about 15 min)

  • Skopje International Airport (SKP) — ~180 km (about 2 h 30 min)

    Budget airlines serving this airport: Wizz Air, Pegasus, AJet

  • Tirana Airport (TIA), Albania — ~150 km

    Budget airlines serving this airport: Wizz Air, Ryanair, Pegasus

Train & coach arrival

• Ohrid coach station — coaches from Skopje (no railway)

Organised by WOFA

• Airport & port transfers: available on request — share your flight or ferry details and our team will send a quote and coordinate private group transport to your hotel. • Local group coaches: private transport can be booked on request for concerts, performance venues and day trips. • Excursions & guided tours: tailored sightseeing and activities can be arranged for your group with upfront pricing. • All additional services are optional and priced on request, based on your group size and schedule.
Contact WOFA

Getting around

Walk around central and lakeside areas; use taxis or arranged transport for outlying sites.

Practical notes

Road travel is the main intercity option. Prearrange airport transfers and check group-coach access in the historic centre.

Before you go

Rules, excursions & practical details

Participation

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 & Stage

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

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.

26–30 Jul 2027154 days left
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