From 22 to 26 April 2026, the Turkish resort towns of Alaçatı and Çeşme will host the first edition of the International CESME Folk Dance and Music Festival – an international festival dedicated to folk dance, music, and choral art. The event will bring together folk and choir ensembles, orchestras, majorette groups, and dance formations from different countries, presenting their cultural traditions through stage performances and traditional costumes.

The festival will take place in the Çeşme region, located on the Aegean Sea coast in western Turkey. The area is known for its clear sea, distinctive Aegean landscape, and the combination of traditional architecture with a modern tourist atmosphere. Alaçatı stands out with its restored stone houses, windmills, and well-established cultural scene, making it a natural setting for an international folklore forum.

The festival programme includes official festival evenings, a participants’ parade, open-air stage performances, joint performances, and a closing ceremony. Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in cultural visits in the region and to exchange experience with ensembles from different countries in an informal and creative atmosphere.

The International CESME Folk Dance and Music Festival is non-competitive and open to ensembles of all age groups, presenting traditional and contemporary dance and music forms. The main focus is on cultural exchange, live interaction, and shared experience through stage art.

Groups wishing to participate in the festival can apply by submitting the required information and materials within the deadlines set by the organisers.