7^th International Cultural Festival "FOLKWAY"

7th International Cultural Festival in the Municipality of Hersonissos
Discovering Authentic Crete

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and unique culture, combining tradition, history and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants. From its impressive gorges and beautiful beaches to its picturesque mountain villages and archaeological treasures, Crete remains a destination that charms every visitor.

In the heart of Crete, the Municipality of Hersonissos embraces both historical heritage and modern tourism, offering a wide range of activities and events for all ages and preferences. Hersonissos is a vibrant and welcoming place where tradition meets the modern world, offering unique experiences to its visitors.

The Open Ways Events & Travel, a company with extensive experience in organizing events throughout Greece, organizes the 7th International Cultural Festival in Crete in official cooperation with the local Municipality and local cultural Associations.

After five successful events, this festival has established itself as a benchmark for tradition and heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world. With the experience and dedication of our team, this festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to preserve and promote the tradition and culture of Crete.

Program

Thursday 24 September 2026:

• Arrival at the hotel & check in after 14:00.
• Welcome by a representative of the organizers, who will give you also full support for anything you need during your participation in the festival.
• Free time for rest, swimming, walk to the market, entertainment.
• Dinner.

Friday 25 September 2026:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free day for activities and optional excursions.
• Traditional feast/party at 20:00, with live Greek traditional music, DJ with global music, and a full meal with unlimited drinks (Dinner).
• Gifts and participation certificates will be given away by the organizers.

Saturday 26 September 2026:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free day until afternoon / Optional excursion.
• Lunch.
• Departure from the hotel at 18:30, dressed in traditional costumes, for the place where the event will take place.
• During the event, souvenirs will be given away by local organizations.
• At the end of the event, traditional drinks and delicacies will be served.

Sunday 27 September 2026:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free day until afternoon / Optional excursion.
• Lunch
• Departure from the hotel at 18:30, dressed in traditional costumes, for the place where the event will take place.
• During the event, memorial gifts will be given away by the Municipality.
• At the end of the event, traditional drinks and delicacies will be served.

Monday 28 September 2026:

• Breakfast.
• Departure of the groups.

Cost of participation

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

• • In 3* hotels → 210€.
  • In 4* hotels → 330€.

The full package includes:

• Accommodation for 5 days (4 nights) in double & triple rooms with half board (breakfast & lunch or dinner) in selected hotels, very close to the beautiful coast of Hersonissos.
• Participation in the Festival (individual participation certificates, souvenirs,
  photos, videos).
• Traditional feast/party with food, unlimited drink, live Greek music, DJ with global music and traditional dances of all participating countries.
• Gifts and treats on the days of the performances.
• Transportations from the hotel to the event venue.
• Transportations from the hotel to the party place.
• Note: At 25 people one is free.

The full package does NOT include:

• Longer length of stay. Every extra day costs:
• In 3* hotels with half board → 45€ per person.
• In 4* hotels with half board → 74€ per person.
• Optional excursions.
• Medical care and insurance for participants.

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

• • 35€ per person.

Notes

An official invitation letter will be provided and other documents if needed.

All groups will be given offers by our office for:

• Transfers either by bus or by airplane (air tickets).
• Optional excursions and guided tours. Prices depend on the number of

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 20 May 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 May 30th, 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 group banner.
• Prepare for each performance a programme of up to 10 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, to get to know the authentic Crete and share with us unforgettable moments full of music, dance and hospitality.

Come and experience the 7th International Cultural Festival in the Municipality of Hersonissos and create memories that will last forever!

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