VÝCHODNÁ

 

Folklore Festival “Východná”  is the oldest and 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. 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.In recent years, one of the most interesting part of the festival have been interactive and adventure programs such as dance, music, singing workshops, craft workshops and programs for children. Folklore Festival “Východná”  is the unique presentation of regular and systematic work of many institutions, organizations, associations and individuals in the field of the traditional folk culture. 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.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.

 

DETVA

 

An annual folk festival that takes place below the Poľana Mountain is well known not only in Slovakia, but also abroad. It is an international festival of the folk music, dance and songs organized not only for Slovaks living in homeland but also for those living abroad. The festival takes place in an amphitheatre in Detva and it is connected with a fair where are sold different traditional handicraft products. 

 

PARADE of HONT

 

A unique folk festival that takes place within whole village, where every cottage and every yard host some kind of handicraft performance, folk singers, dancers, cooks, thread makers, artists and local crafters. Three days of one of a kind experience of past rural life.

 

MYJAVA

 

An annual open air folk festival with international attendance.

 

HEĽPA

 

TERCHOVÁ

 

 

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

 

Roma People and their Culture

There live about 90,000 of citizens registered to have Romani nationality in Slovakia. Some speak Romani/Gypsy language. They have their own traditions and culture. Very often they have natural musical talent. Usually they are good singers, dancers and they can play on musical instruments. Roma people have their special type of the music and dance, they have their own folklore. Typical musical instruments are for example cymbalo and violin. Several famous artists performing on the national scene come from the Roma people. Their culture is characteristic by specially rhythmical and dynamic music and dancing. Their costumes are very colourful and usually they are embellished by different scarves and jewellery. There are few Roma groups and singers that publish their music on CDs. As their music is full of fun and energy, it is quite popular. Except traditional folk festivals there are also organized Roma folk festivals. A Museum of the Romani culture can be found in Martin.