Director: Zoran Leveski With great pleasure, we invite you - Folk Groups, Choral Ensembles, Orchestras, Majorette Teams, and Children, Youth, and Adult Groups - to participate in our spectacular International Festival in Ohrid, a city where history and modern life beautifully intertwine. Welcome to Ohrid - The Eternal City Nestled on the mythical Balkan Peninsula, Ohrid is a timeless city whose heartbeat connects ancient and modern civilizations. With over 2,400 years of history, Ohrid stands among Europe’s oldest continually inhabited towns. Once home to 365 churches, one for each day of the year, it is often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” Lake Ohrid, affectionately known as “Macedonia’s Freshwater Sea”, enchants visitors with its crystal-clear, sky-blue waters and magnificent views, offering the serenity and grandeur of the sea itself. Participation fee: Basic Category Hotels 145 Euro per person - 5 days (4 nights HB - breakfast and dinner) Accommodation: Participants will be housed in hotels or apartments, with rooms for 3–4 persons, each featuring a private bathroom. Each group is entitled to 2 double rooms for leaders or drivers. Additional double rooms: €10 per person/day Single rooms: €20 per person/day Extra nights (half board): €40 per person/night 1 free place for every 25 participants Check-in: after 14:00 PM | Check-out: before 09:00 AM Tourist tax and insurance (€0.70 per person/day) are not included in the price and are payable upon arrival. Conditions of the festival: Open to Choirs, Orchestras, Folklore, and Modern Dance Groups from around the world. No age limits. The number of participating groups is limited. Each group will receive Diplomas and Gifts from the organizers. Includes a parade and organized performances for all participants. After submitting the Application Form and advance payment, an official invitation letter will be issued. Participant requirements: Each group should include dancers, musicians, leaders, and staff. Prepare a performance of 10–12 minutes. Performances may use live music, CD, or USB. Groups must bring their national flag and group banner for the parade. Groups arriving by bus must use their own transportation during the festival. Visa arrangements (if required) are the responsibility of the group. Rooming lists must be submitted at least one month before the festival. Insurance & Medical Support: All participants are responsible for their personal health and travel insurance. A First Aid team and local hospital will be available if needed, but any medical expenses are to be covered by the group. Promotion & Media Coverage: The festival will be promoted through press, radio, television, flyers, and posters. All photos and video recordings remain the property of the Festival Organization. By applying, participants agree to all festival terms and media rights conditions. Program: Day 1 – Arrival & Relaxation Hotel check-in and free time for individual activities Dinner at the hotel Free evening to explore or rest Day 2 – Discovering the Spirit of Ohrid Breakfast Guided tour of the Old City of Ohrid: Samuil Fortress Antique Theater St. Kliment Ohridski – Plaošnik St. Jovan Kaneo Dinner Festival Night – Performances and cultural celebration Day 3 – Beauty of the Lake Breakfast Boat cruise on Lake Ohrid with visits to: Museum on the Water St. Naum Monastery – the most famous lakeside resort Dinner Day 4 – Exploring Surroundings Breakfast Excursion to Struga and Vevčani (optional beach or free time) Dinner Day 5 – Departure Breakfast Hotel check-out and farewell * The organizer reserves the right of changes in the festival program. 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. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 15 days before the festival, via bank transfer or upon arrival (as previously agreed). The deposit is non-refundable. In cases of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances, the organizers reserve the right to modify the festival dates. Any bank fees are the responsibility of the applicant. Price adjustments may apply if significant economic changes occur in Europe.