Director: Sevinch Mamedova Folklore Fusion Fest Slogan: Uniting Cultures Through Dance Baku, Azerbaijan 27-30 June 2025, Baku - Azerbaijan Azerbaijan: The Land of Fire, Music, and Culture: Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan is a land where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Known as the Land of Fire, it is a country rich in history, music, dance, and cultural diversity. From the rhythmic beats of mugham to the electrifying moves of traditional yalli, Azerbaijan’s artistic heritage is a celebration of its deep-rooted identity. Baku, the vibrant capital, stands as a symbol of this harmony - its historic Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, coexists with futuristic skyscrapers like the Flame Towers. The Caspian Sea whispers tales of centuries-old trade, while the Gobustan rock carvings remind us of the region’s prehistoric artistic spirit. Azerbaijan’s music and dance are a testament to its multicultural soul. Traditional ashiq music, the soulful mugham, and dynamic folk dances reflect the energy, passion, and unity of its people. Festivals and performances bring together the rhythms of Turkic, Persian, and Caucasian influences, making Azerbaijan a hub of artistic fusion. This festival proudly showcases Azerbaijan’s cultural richness, inviting the world to experience its hospitality, art, and spirit. Whether through mesmerizing music, dazzling performances, or heartfelt traditions, Azerbaijan welcomes you to celebrate its legacy - where every beat tells a story and every dance step bridges the past and future. Festival overview: The Folklore Fusion Festival invites dancers, dance ensembles, and cultural organizations from across the globe to celebrate the vibrant world of folklore through dance and music. Set in the dynamic city of Baku, Azerbaijan, this event is a celebration of cultural heritage, artistic expression, and global unity. With a focus on folklore dance, Folklore Fusion provides a stage for participants to showcase their traditions, exchange ideas, and captivate audiences amidst Azerbaijan’s rich cultural backdrop. Conditions of participation: Groups should prepare a performance of 10-15 minutes showcasing folklore dance, with live or recorded music (details to be specified in the Application Form). Participants are encouraged to bring traditional costumes and props to enhance their cultural representation. The festival welcomes ensembles of all ages and experience levels, provided they align with the folklore theme. Program: Day 1: Checking in the hotel, free time for individual activities Dinner Day 2: Breakfast Performance Visiting the old city of Old City and Bulvar (optional) Dinner Day 3: Breakfast Performance Visiting the City (optional) Dinner Day 4: Breakfast Checkout Participation fee: The festival operates on a self-funding principle. Each foreign participating group is responsible for the following fee per participant, based on accommodation preferences: 250 Euro per person - 3 nights in a 2-3 star hotel (2, 3, or 4-bed rooms), meals 3 times a day; transportation provided free on concert days. 350 Euro per person - 3 nights in a 3-star hotel (2, 3, or 4-bed rooms), meals 3 times a day; transportation provided free on concert days. 400 Euro per person - 3 nights in a 4-star hotel (2 or 3-bed rooms), meals 3 times a day; transportation provided free on concert days. 500 Euro per person - 3 nights in a 5-star hotel (2 or 3-bed rooms), meals 3 times a day; transportation provided free on concert days. Note: Accommodation will be located in the City of Baku. Specific hotels will be confirmed after each participating group selects their preferred type and level of accommodation. Supplement for double room: 10 Euro per person per day. Supplement for single room: 20 Euro per person per day. Festival Medical insurance: All participating groups are required to secure their own medical insurance prior to arriving at the festival. The organizing committee will not cover any medical or hospital costs incurred during the festival period. However, in emergency situations, an ambulance will be provided to ensure immediate assistance. Join us in Baku for Folklore Fusion - uniting cultures through dance in a celebration of tradition, creativity, and connection. We can’t wait to welcome you to Azerbaijan! 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. Next payment: Participants are required to pay 40% of the total participation fee. Final Payment: The remaining 50% must be paid no later than the festival’s launch day.