2^nd International Cutural Festival "FOLKWAY"

 2^nd International Cultural Festival in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki – One City, One Cultural World

Thessaloniki, the “Nymph of Thermaikos”, at the northwest corner of the Aegean Sea, is a place where history meets vibrant everyday life and tradition harmonizes with modern urban rhythm. As a crossroads of cultures for centuries, the city is the ideal destination for the organization of an International Cultural Festival.

With the iconic White Tower dominating its beach, Thessaloniki offers a unique atmosphere, enriched by its numerous monuments, which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Byzantine churches, Roman and Ottoman remain, as well as the city’s rich Jewish history, make up a colorful cultural mosaic.

Open Ways Events & Travel, with its many years of experience in organizing events throughout Greece, brings for the second time the International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY ” in Thessaloniki, continuing to add a new cultural institution in the heart of Macedonia. With an emphasis on authenticity and multiculturalism, the festival brings together traditional dances and music from around the world in a grand celebration that honors diversity and common roots.

Οur previous festivals in our homeland Greece, including the inaugural International Cultural Festival in Thessaloniki, were met with great success, combining high-quality standards with deep respect for tradition and culture.

The participation of local authorities and the dynamics of cooperation ensure the success of the event, while highlighting Thessaloniki as an international cultural destination. We invite you to live this unique experience, to wander the streets of a city full of history and vitality, and to discover the magic of the 2^nd International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY ” in Thessaloniki!

Program

Friday 17 July 2026:

• Arrival at the hotel & check in after 14:30.
• Welcome by a representative of the organizers, who will give you also full support for anything you will need during your participation in the festival.
• Free time for rest, walking in the city, entertainment, optional excursion.

Saturday 18 July 2026:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free day for activities / Optional Excursion: Thessaloniki City Tour – Food Tour – Cruize with a wooden boat in Thermaicos Gulf with the view of Mt Olympus.
• Dinner at the hotel (for the groups with HB)
• Traditional party at 20:30 for all the participating groups, with Greek, global and traditional music from the countries of the participants, with snack and drinks, in 5* Grand Hotel Palace event hall.
• Memorial gifts and participation certificates will be given away by the Organizers.

Sunday 19 July 2026:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Optional excursion to the nearest beautiful sandy beaches for swimming, coffee, and outdoor activities.
• Lunch at the hotel (for the groups with HB)
• Departure from the hotel at 19:00, dressed in traditional costumes, for the place where the Εvent will take place.
• During the event, souvenirs will be given by the Municipality.
• During the event, treats and water will be served.

Monday 20 July 2026:

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

Cost of participation

1. The cost for the full package (including accommodation, participation, party) is:

• In 3-4* Ηotels (such as: Egnatia Palace, The Mavili Urban Stay, Metropolitan, Minerva Premier Hotel, Imperial Palace, El Greco, ABC, Anessis, Rotonda, etc.) with BB → 196 €
• In 5* Grand Hotel Palace (https://www.grandhotelpalace.gr) with BB → 238 €.
• In 5* Grand Hotel Palace ((https://www.grandhotelpalace.gr) with HB → 262 €.

The full package includes:

• Accommodation 4 days (3 nights), in very good and selected hotels in the city of Thessaloniki, in double and triple rooms, with breakfast (BB) or half board (HB).
• Participation in the Festival (individual participation certificates, souvenirs, photos, videos).
• Traditional party with snacks, drink, Greek traditional – Global music & introduction to traditional music and dances of all countries.
• Transportation from the hotel to the event venue and vice versa.
• Gifts and treats on the day of the performance.
• Note: At 25 people, one is free of charge.

The full package does NOT include:

• Longer length of stay. Every extra day costs:
• In 3 – 4* hotels with breakfast → 52 € per person.
• In 5* hotels with breakfast → 65 € per person.
• There is the possibility of half board in the other hotels as well. Τhe price depends on the hotel.
• Residence Tax.
• Optional
• Medical care and insurance for participants.

2. The cost of simple participation (without including accommodation and participation in the party) is:

• 35€ 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 April 10, 2026.

Note: Once participation is accepted, written confirmation and instructions will be sent to the group. An advance payment must be paid no later than April 20, 2026. An official invitation from the organizers and all necessary documents and information will be provided. The remaining amount can be paid in cash on the day of arrival or 25 days in advance by bank deposit.

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

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, to discover the beautiful city of Thessaloniki and share with us unforgettable moments full of music, dance and hospitality.

Come and experience the 2^nd International Cultural Festival “FOLKWAY” in Thessaloniki and create memories that will last forever!

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