Centre Prešov from 6 to 8 August 2026 it will be transformed into a place brimming with folklore, music, dance, traditional crafts and regional flavours. During International Folklore Festival – Festival of Countries and Traditions There’ll also be a craft zone Discover and experience Šariš, which will showcase the very best the region has to offer to visitors right in front of The Co-Cathedral of St Nicholas.
Discover Šariš with all your senses
The craft zone will showcase products by local artisans made in Šariš, regional produce and traditional culinary specialities. Visitors will have the chance to meet the craftspeople in person, learn the stories behind their products and take home an authentic piece of Šariš.
In the tent The Šariš Region Regional Tourism Organisation Creative workshops on traditional crafts will be held during the festival. Those interested will be able to try their hand at lace-making, weaving, wire-working and pottery, and learn more about the techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation in the region.
The programme will also include a tasting of traditional ‘mačanka’ in front of Prešov Town Hall. The festival atmosphere will be enhanced by a dance school and a folk parade through the town centre.
„Through the “Discover and Experience Šariš’ zone, we want to introduce visitors to our region through its crafts, flavours and living traditions. At the same time, we are preparing the first certification for the ‘Šariš Regional Product’ label, which will help raise the profile of high-quality and authentic products from local craftspeople and producers,” said Peter Halaj, Executive Director of OOCR Šariš Region.
The first ‘Šariš Regional Product’ certificates
A key part of the festival will be the brand’s first-ever certification Šariš Regional Product. The ceremony to award the first certificates will take place on Friday 7 August at 1.30 pm.
The aim of the brand is to promote high-quality products from the Šariš region, raise awareness of local craftspeople and producers, and help visitors recognise authentic products associated with the region.
Certified products will therefore be more than just attractive or tasty regional specialities. They will also tell the story of the local people, traditional methods and the cultural heritage of Šariš.
Three days of folklore, traditions and regional flavours
Festival of Countries and Traditions It will offer a rich cultural programme over three days. Both local and international folk ensembles will take to the stage to perform dances and songs.
Visitors will be able to sample traditional dishes, meet local producers, try their hand at craft techniques and join in the dancing. The festival will thus offer an opportunity to discover Šariš not only through performances, but also through its flavours, aromas, local produce and living traditions.
The event is organised with financial support from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
