21^st International Cultural Festival 'FOLKWAY'

21^st International Cultural Festival in Pieria

Pieria in the Multicultural Dance of Tradition

Pieria, a place that enchants with its natural beauty and deep cultural heritage, is the ideal destination for hosting International Cultural Festivals. With the imposing Mount Olympus, the mythical mountain of the gods, dominating the horizon and the crystal blue shores of Thermaikos Gulf offering serenity and beauty, the region uniquely combines history, tradition and the warm hospitality that characterizes its people.

This enchanting place stands out for its varied landscapes: lush forests, gurgling riversand award-winning Aegean Sea coastlines that are honored with Blue Flags every year. Olympus offers unique opportunities for adventure and contact with nature, while archaeological treasures, such as the ancient Macedonian sanctuary at Dion, and picturesque traditional villages create a complete cultural experience for every visitor.

Open Ways Events & Travel, a company with extensive experience in organizing events throughout Greece, organizes the 21^st International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY”, promoting Pieria internationally and enhancing its cultural identity. It is worth noting that this is the only international cultural festival in the region, which is under the auspices of the Regional Unity of Pieria and is implemented in official cooperation with local Municipalities. This cooperation ensures the quality and authenticity of the event, while highlighting the dynamics of the local community and its contribution to the preservation and promotion of tradition. The 21^st International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY” is the continuation of this successful course.

With a variety of participants, vibrancy and authenticity, the festival promises once again to be a multicultural celebration of traditional dance and music. We invite you to become part of this unique experience and discover the magic of Pieria!

Program

Thursday 12 June 2025:

• • Arrival at the hotel & check in after 14:00.
  • Welcome by a representative of the organizers.
  • A detailed programme with all the information needed will be given.
  • Free time for rest, walking in the area, swimming, etc.
  • Dinner at the hotel.

Friday 13 June 2025:

• • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Free day for activities / Optional Excursion.
  • Traditional feast/party at 20:30, with Greek and international traditional music from the countries of the participants, with food and drinks (Lunch).
  • Gifts and participation certificates will be given away by the organizers.

Saturday 14 June 2025:

• • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Free day until afternoon / Optional excursion.
  • Lunch at the hotel.
  • Departure from the hotel at 19:00, dressed in traditional costumes, to a seaside region of the local Municipality Pydna Kolindros, where the event will take place.
  • During the event, souvenirs will be given away by local organizations. As well as
    water to all participants.

Sunday 15 June 2025:

• • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Official meeting of the group leaders with the organizers at 10:00 (Drinks and refreshments will be served).
  • Free day until afternoon / Optional excursion.
  • Lunch at the hotel.
  • Departure from the hotel at 19:00, dressed in traditional costumes, to a village of Municipality Pydna Kolindros, where the event will take place.
  • During the event, souvenirs will be given away by local organisations. As well as water to all participants.

Monday 16 June 2025:

• • Breakfast at the hotel. Departure of the groups.
  • Departure of the groups.

Cost of participation

1. The cost for the full package (accommodation & participation) is:

• • • In Apartments → 187€.
    • In 1*- 2* hotels → 197€.
    • In 3* hotels → 245€.
    • In 4* hotels → 295€.

The full package includes:

• • • Accommodation 5 days (4 nights), in triple/quadruple rooms (plus 2-3 double rooms only for the leaders) with half board (breakfast & dinner), in selected hotels by the sea of Pieria (Olympus Riviera) in Paralia Beach, Olympic Beach and Korinos Beach.

Note: In 4* hotels most rooms are double rooms.

• • • Participation in the Festival (individual participation certificates, souvenirs,
      photos, videos).
    • Traditional party with food, drinks & introduction to traditional dances of all countries in the event hall of Mediterranean Village Hotel & Spa 5* in Paralia beach.
    • Leaders’ meeting (drinks & refreshments).
    • Gifts and treats on the days of the performances.
    • Note: Per 25 participants, the 26th is free of charge.

The full package does NOT include:

• • • Longer length of stay. Every extra day costs:
      • In Apartments and 1* – 2* hotels with half board → 40€ per person.
      • In 3* hotels with half board → 50€ per person.
      • In 4* hotels with half board → 65€ per person.
    • Accommodation in double rooms in apartments & hotels. The extra cost ranges from 6€ to 10€ per person per day.
    • Residence Taxes (Climate Resilience Fee – Resident Tax).
    • Optional excursions.
    • Medical care and insurance for participants.

2. The cost of simple participation without accommodation and participation in the feast is:

• • • 30€ per person.

Notes

All groups will be given offers by our office for:

• • Travel: by road, by air (air tickets).
  • Optional excursions and guided tours. Prices depend on the number of participants.

Participants

Participation is open to:

• • Traditional Folk Dance Groups
  • Choirs
  • Orchestras

From all over the world!

Terms of Participation

Each group should:

• Send the completed Entry Form with a deadline of March 20, 2025.

Note: Once participation is accepted, written confirmation and instructions will be sent to the group. 60% of the total entry fee must be paid no later than March 30, 2025. After payment of the amount, an official invitation and accommodation information will be sent. The remaining amount can be paid in cash on the day of arrival or 20 days in advance by bank deposit.

• Carry the flag of its country and the club banner.
• Prepare for each performance a programme of up to 12 minutes accompanied by an orchestra or CD/flash.

Note: There is no age limit, nor is there a limit to the number of participants in each group.

We invite you to become part of this unique celebration of tradition and culture, todiscover the magic of Pieria and share with us unforgettable moments full of music, dance and hospitality. Come and experience the 21^st International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY” in Pieria and create memories that will last forever!

The team of Open Ways Events & Travel remains at your disposal for any information or clarification.