The Šariš Region came to life from 24 to 26 July 2026 the first edition of the experiential festival Discover Šariš. Over the course of three days, visitors were able to discover its history, natural surroundings, traditions and local people in an unconventional and personal way.
The supporting programme centred on Ponds in Veľký Šariš, although the individual events took place at various locations across the region. The festival thus invited visitors not just to a single event, but on a journey through Šariš.
Discovering Šariš through its people
The festival centred primarily on encounters with local guides, craftspeople, artists and community leaders. It was they who introduced visitors to the region as they know it from their everyday lives – through personal stories, traditional crafts, local flavours, lesser-known corners and, above all, through experiences.
Because the best way to get to know Šariš is to experience it for yourself.
The programme included more than 25 individual activities. These included the ever-popular gold panning, exploring nature and learning about beavers in Kokošovce, and a visit to the underground Slovak opal mines in Dubník or a cinematic stroll through Sabinov in the footsteps of the Oscar-winning film The Shop on Main Street.
Visitors were also able to enjoy a medieval dinner at Šariš Castle, which combined a historical atmosphere, regional cuisine and stories about life in the past. The programme demonstrated that historical sites need not merely be the destination of a traditional tour, but can also provide a setting for lively, memorable and unique experiences.
Baking bread in a community oven
One of the highlights was baking bread together with the team The Šariš Region Regional Tourism Organisation. The event took place on Saturday 25 July at 3.00 pm by the community oven in Veľký Šariš.
Participants were able to learn about the traditional method of making bread and experience the atmosphere that was once a natural part of life in the villages of the Šariš region. Preparing the dough together, working with the hot oven and the aroma of freshly baked bread created an opportunity for conversation, for people to meet, and to reflect on the simple traditions that can bring whole generations together.
At the same time, the bread-baking event showcased the Šariš region through its characteristic hospitality. Visitors were not merely spectators; they were able to play an active part in the shared experience, which culminated in a tasting session.
Music, dance and the talented people of Šariš
The festival also offered a free accompanying cultural programme. This included a concert by Katka Koščová, a discussion with interesting and talented people from Šariš, and a folk dance workshop.
Visitors were thus able not only to enjoy the musical programme, but also to get to know better the individuals who, through their work, creativity and activities, contribute to the region’s development. The folk dance school brought movement, folklore and the opportunity to get actively involved to the programme, regardless of age or previous experience.
A region worth experiencing
Discover Šariš It has shown that tourism need not be based solely on visiting well-known sights. A meaningful experience can also arise from meeting a local person, baking bread together, going for a walk in the woods, or discovering stories linked to a particular town or village.
The festival brought together history, nature, gastronomy, crafts, music and community life. It offered visitors the chance to see both well-known and lesser-known places through fresh eyes and to gain a better understanding that Šariš’s greatest treasure is the people who live there, create there and preserve its traditions.
The first edition of the event thus offered three days of authentic experiences and showcased Šariš as a vibrant region full of stories, hospitality and experiences that are well worth returning to.
The event was organised with financial support from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source: OOCR RŠ
