The festival of Bulgarian Folk Art in Koprivshtitsa (pictures)

The National Festival of Bulgarian Folk Art in Koprivshtitsa took place on August 5, 6 and 7. It takes place every five years, but was cancelled two years ago because of the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 7,000 performers took to six stages in the Voyvodenets area over the three days.

Thousands of guests from Bulgaria and abroad arrived especially for the event.

The festival has been recognized as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2016.

"Keep in mind that this gathering is not just some random event. It is not just the tradition. This gathering is part of the national identity. It shows who we are. This is our foundations. These are the pillars on which the Bulgarian culture and its success are held," said Veleslav Minekov, the caretaker Minister of Culture.

The Folk Art Festival in Koprivshtitsa was held for the 12th time. For three consecutive days - 5, 6 and 7 August, 2022, talented folk song and dance performers from all over Bulgaria and from abroad gathered in the region.

Images by Elizabetta Dimitriva