Over the past 37 years, the Maribor Folkart festival has brought the most outstanding folklore groups from around the world to our city and Slovenia. Year after year, they have inspired us, transported us through their stories to different continents, and taken us far beyond our everyday horizons.

To date, we have experienced the culture and traditions of as many as 83 countries.

The richness of the world’s intangible cultural heritage tells stories about people from nearby and distant continents—their ways of life, work, behavior, beliefs, and dedication to values that are essential for all generations. Culture is a value, a sense of belonging and respect; above all, it is the fundamental basis of every nation’s existence.

That is why Folkart is our WINDOW TO THE WORLD—a true celebration of global intangible cultural heritage, life, and hope. And we sincerely hope it will remain so in the future. For the 38th time, ambassadors of culture and tradition from around the globe will gather in Maribor. This year, we will have the opportunity to experience the cultures of four countries that have never performed at Folkart before.

The 38th Folkart will host groups from Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean (North America). With their unique stories, they will wrap our city in vibrant colors and moments of joy. From southern Africa, from Botswana and its capital Gaborone, comes a group devoted to singing, dancing, and rhythm: “We want to show the world everything—from the deep Tsutsube rhythms of the Kalahari to the wild stomping of Paties in the south. This is our celebration of life. From the heart, with joy.”
From Bolivia, a picturesque inland country in South America with the world’s highest administrative capital, La Paz, a professional group will present a piece of their unique culture—a rich blend of Andean indigenous and Spanish colonial influences.
Poland, a Central European country on the Baltic Sea, sends one of its finest ensembles; students from Kraków will captivate us with youthful energy and dedication to their rich traditions.
From the tropical island of Puerto Rico in the eastern Caribbean comes a passionate group for whom salsa runs in their veins, devoted to their culture, dance, and music.
North Macedonia, the land of sunshine and smiling people, often called the pearl of the Balkans, brings a rejuvenated group of familiar performers who will once again warm our hearts and showcase the depth of their cultural heritage.
From the heart of Asia, Uzbekistan—land of the great rivers Amu Darya (Oxus) and Syr Darya (Jaxartes)—will be represented by a professional state ensemble from Tashkent, where ancient Islamic traditions, mystical beauty, and warm hospitality intertwine.
Completing this colorful mosaic will be the local hosts, members of the Academic Folklore Group Študent, proudly representing Slovenia.

From June 30 to July 4, Maribor will once again be filled with dance, music, songs, colorful costumes, joyful faces, optimism, and a lively atmosphere—something especially valuable in today’s times. During the festival, performers will appear throughout the city center, Lent, and the City Park.

The opening and closing performances of the 38th Folkart will take place on the main stage of the Lent Festival at Trg Leona Štuklja.

Tickets:

• Seated (until June 24) – €8
• Seated (from June 25) – €13
• Students and pupils: €5 discount per ticket

More about ticket purchace

The event will take place in all weather conditions. Umbrellas are not allowed at the venue to ensure good visibility. Visitors are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.