Genuine folklore, fun and joy of the participants and visitors. This characterizes the largest presentation of the Slovak traditional culture – Folklore Festival Východná in Liptov cultural-historical region.
This year from July 4th to 7th, 2019, it takes place in an archetypal Liptov region village called Východná located under the peaks of High Tatras. A festival held in an area surrounded by beautiful nature will appeal to ethno-lovers from all over the world. The 65th annual Festival will be held this time.
Folklore Festival “Východná” with interactive and adventure programs such as dance, music, singing workshops, craft workshops and programs for children is the unique presentation of regular and systematic work of many institutions, organizations, associations and individuals in the field of the traditional folk culture.
Within more than 1400 performers in dozens of artistic author programs are presented also the winners of the national folklore competitions in the field of folklore dance, music and songs. Very important is also participation of craftsmen, producers and artists.
The Festival is a presentation of the year-long work of the Slovak folklore ensembles, children's ensembles, folk music, vocal groups, solo musicians and dancers. Top-class folklore ensembles from all around the world participate in the Festival every year. On five amphitheatre's stages, dozens of hundreds of participants perform in front tens of thousands of spectators.
A manifold accompanying programme for all generations is also a part of the Festival – folk art products market, crafts school and dance houses where those interested will learn to dance traditional dances originating in various Slovak regions. Tradition-lovers will have a chance to taste the traditional Slovak cuisine.
Folklore Festival Východná founded in 1953 is the largest nationwide festival with international participation in Slovakia and also the top of the presentation of manifestations of traditional folk culture and its elements in the process of folklorism. The festival takes place annually on the threshold of the summer tourist season on the first weekend in July in a frequently visited tourist area near the High and Low Tatras, in Východná village. During its existence, the festival contributes significantly to the revival, preservation, development of creative and public presentation of the values of our precious cultural treasure.
