XXXIX International Festival of Mountain Folklore

The International Festival of Mountain Folklore will take place for the thirty-ninth time this year. Like every year, at Dolna Rownia Krupowa a festival village will spring up, gathered around a great tent. Several dozen European groups will arrive at the Tatras, who will compete in a contest for gold, silver, and bronze Ciupagas (traditional highlander axes) in three categories: authentic groups, stylized groups, and groups presenting folklore as an artistic study. The Folklore Festival is the perfect opportunity to familiarize yourself with the culture, traditions, and folklore of the Highlander people from the many mountainous areas of Europe and the world, to notice the similarities and differences in their dances, music, and dress, and to even learn some dances, try some regional dishes, take part in folklore concerts, and of course, to party it up, Highlander style! For years as part of the festival there have been numerous complimentary events. The Folk Art Bazaar – at which folk artists present their handmade regional craftwork; Podhale Driving Championships; the National Days – during which you can sample many regional dishes and try your skills at traditional dances; and Guide Days – during which trips with a guide are organized to the most popular peaks of the Polish and Slovakian Tatras. During this time the Open Workshops of Zakopane Artisits invite you to get to know their creative process and works as well.