Director: Kseniya Ulitovskaya The International Multi-Genre Festival "BEST FEST Brussels" is one of the largest and brightest cultural events in Europe. Held in the heart of Europe, the city of Brussels, this festival gathers participants from all over the world, showcasing their originality, artistic talent, and cultural diversity. The festival’s purpose is to promote art and culture while introducing the European audience to the creativity and performance skills of participants from various countries. Its mission includes fostering creative connections, cultural exchange, and the discovery and support of gifted children, talented youth, and adults. The festival aims to showcase abilities, enhance performance skills, strengthen international relations, and exchange cultural traditions and values. Festival participants: The festival welcomes groups of 5 or more participants, including: Folklore ensembles, dance groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette ensembles, vocal ensembles, vocal-dance groups, professional and amateur collectives, and other genres upon agreement with the organizers. Solo performers and small groups may apply only upon request and with special approval from the organizers. Key festival rules: Non-competitive, multi-genre festival. Limited participant slots (3-4 groups per country). Each group must prepare at least three performances or a program lasting 10-15 minutes, with live or recorded musical accompaniment. Festival program includes: Visit to the European Parliament, with a possible performance (TBC). Festive parade through the main streets of Brussels. Festival performances on the main squares of Brussels and in a concert hall. Festival objectives: Create a platform for professional interaction among participants, exchange of experience and repertoire, and the establishment of future contacts in the fields of art and culture. Host collaborative performances of professional and amateur groups from around the world. Additional information: Submit a brief group description and 2-3 photos. Bring your country’s flag and group banner. Optional: Gifts for exchange with other participants. Excursions must be booked 25 days before the festival. Application submission confirms acceptance of all festival rules. Detailed information will be provided upon participation confirmation. Festival program: April 9, 2025 Arrival in Brussels. Accommodation in 3-star hotels (4-6 people per room; 2-3 people per room for group leaders with 40+ participants). Performance in the European Parliament concert hall (TBC). Dinner and a welcome reception for group leaders. April 10, 2025 Breakfast. Walking tour of Brussels, including the European Quarter: House of European History, Wiertz Art Gallery, and the European Parliament Museum. Entrance to the European Parliament for group representatives (5-7 members per group, upon prior approval). Meeting with MEPs and gift exchange. Free time to visit the Dinosaur Museum or History Museum (free admission). Lunch/dinner. Festival preparation and a festive parade through Brussels’ main streets. Official opening and performances on one of the city’s central squares. April 11, 2025 Breakfast. Optional: Free time or a tour to Antwerp (65 Euro per person, including roundtrip transport). Discover one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities, home to Peter Paul Rubens, the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Our Lady, and the historic city square. Guided city tour included. Return to Brussels. Lunch/dinner. Festival evening in one of Brussels’ theaters (stage size TBC). Award ceremony and festival closure. April 12, 2025 Breakfast. Check-out. Free time and departure from Brussels. *The sequence of events may change. Awards and recognition: Diploma "Cultural Ambassador" - every participant receives a diploma recognizing their contribution to cultural development. Festival Medal - awarded to each participant as a memento and acknowledgment of their efforts. Festival Cup "BEST FEST Brussels" - one cup per group as a symbol of collective achievement. Special Recognition for Leaders - awards for group leaders and instructors for their organizational and inspirational efforts. Artistry Award - for participants or groups demonstrating outstanding artistic expression. Innovation Award - for performances showcasing unique or innovative approaches. Memorable Souvenirs. Festival package: 250 Euro per person - 3 HB Additional day: 60 Euro per person (breakfast included). *1 free spot per group of 20 participants (20+1) Participation fee: Groups of 5-10 participants: 25 Euro per person. Groups of 11+ participants: 20 Euro per person. Festival package includes: Hotel accommodation (4 days/3 nights) in rooms with facilities (4-6 people per room; 2-3 people for group leaders with 40+ participants). Half-board meals (dinner on arrival day and breakfast on departure day). Walking tour of Brussels. European Parliament visit for group representatives. Official invitations, coordination, technical support, and festival advertising. Festival package does not include: Visa fees. Transportation and personal expenses. Personal responsibility and medical insurance (medical assistance is available but must be covered by the group). Transfers between Brussels (Charleroi/airport) and the hotel/festival venues. Transfers can be arranged at an additional cost. Any group willing to participate must submit an Application form. Approved groups pay in advance a 10% guarantee fee, which is to be deducted at the final payment. As a next step: 20% deposit to the organizing committee.