57th Zagreb International Folklore Festival: Homage to Tradition and Folklore Amateurism

From 19 to 23 July, life in Zagreb will again be marked by the International Folklore Festival. In this long string which started in 1966, when the festival took place for the first time, the Folklore Festival in Zagreb has had the same task: to keep and cherish cultural traditions, local heritage and affirm folklore amateurism. This year’s main topic of the festival is the centenary of the expedition in Croatian historical region of Pokuplje. The aim is to pay tribute to the group of experts and enthusiasts who sailed on the Kupa River in kayaks and used words, paintings and expert papers to record significant segments of tradition and construction heritage of 34 villages in the area where they travelled. As a dedication to the important anniversary of this expedition, this year’s programme will include folklore troupes from the area of Pokuplje whose performances will undoubtedly attract the attention of many visitors.

The performances of folklore ensembles from Croatia and abroad, among which there will also be folklore groups from the Croatian diaspora, will be held on three stages in the very centre of the city, in Ban Josip Jelačić Square, Zrinjevac Square and European Square. The programme will be accompanied by interesting dance and music workshops which are always very sought after.

The Zagreb International Folklore Festival is a festival of national importance. It is a member of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF) and has the EFFE Seal of the European Festivals Association.