38th INTERNATIONAL CIOFF® FOLKLORE FESTIVAL
June 30 – July 4, 2026

The International CIOFF Folklore Festival FOLKART in Maribor, a member of the global non-governmental organization CIOFF since its very beginning, is the largest folklore festival in Slovenia. It is among the most prominent and highly regarded festivals in Europe and the global folklore scene. It was also the first festival of its kind in the world to be honored with UNESCO patronage.

FOLKART – OUR WINDOW TO THE WORLD

Over the past 37 years, Maribor’s Folkart has brought the world’s finest folklore groups to our city and Slovenia. Every year, they inspire us, transport us with their stories across continents, and take us far beyond ordinary horizons. So far, we have discovered cultures and traditions from as many as 83 countries.

This remarkable intangible cultural heritage speaks of people from nearby and distant continents—their lifestyles, work, customs, beliefs, and dedication to values essential for all generations. Culture is value, belonging, and respect; above all, it is the foundation of every nation’s existence. That is why Folkart is our WINDOW TO THE WORLD—a celebration of global intangible cultural heritage, life, and hope. And we truly hope it will remain so in the future.

For the 38th time, cultural ambassadors from around the world will gather in Maribor. This year, we will experience cultures from four countries appearing at Folkart for the first time. Groups from Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean will fill the city with vibrant colors and joyful moments.

From Botswana comes a group devoted to singing, dancing, and rhythm. From Bolivia, a professional ensemble brings a unique blend of indigenous Andean and Spanish influences. Poland sends one of its finest groups—students from Kraków full of youthful energy and dedication. From Puerto Rico comes a passionate group with salsa in their blood. North Macedonia returns with a revitalized ensemble rich in tradition. From Uzbekistan, a state ensemble from Tashkent brings centuries-old Islamic heritage and artistic excellence. Completing the program are the outstanding local hosts, the Academic Folklore Group Študent, proudly representing Slovenia.

From June 30 to July 4, Maribor will once again be filled with dance, music, colorful costumes, joy, optimism, and lively energy—something especially meaningful in today’s times.

Festival performers will appear throughout the city center, Lent, and the City Park. The opening and closing events will take place on the main stage of Festival Lent at Leon Štukelj Square.

1. BOTSWANA

Folklore Group “Ngwao Letshwao Performing Arts”, Gaborone

Vast, wild, and magical—home to the “Big Five,” the Okavango Delta, and deep cultural ties to nature. Music and dance are central to life, telling stories of daily experiences and ancestors. The group expresses this heritage through powerful rhythms and traditional dances.

2. BOLIVIA

Folklore Ballet “Bafopaz”, La Paz

A land of contrasts with 37 official languages and rich cultural fusion. Dance is deeply tied to tradition and celebration, especially the famous Oruro Carnival. Bafopaz is a leading institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Bolivian folklore worldwide.

3. POLAND

Academic Folklore Ensemble “Krakus”, Kraków

One of Europe’s top folklore groups, representing Poland’s rich traditions. Established in 1949, Krakus has performed worldwide and showcases authentic dances, music, and costumes from various regions.

4. PUERTO RICO

Folklore Group “Guamanique de Puerto Rico”, Ciales

A tropical island rich in cultural diversity. Its traditions blend Taíno, Spanish, and African influences. The group presents vibrant performances filled with Caribbean rhythms, dance, and passion.

5. NORTH MACEDONIA

Ensemble “Orce Nikolov”, Skopje

A land of sun, lakes, and deep traditions. This ensemble preserves authentic folk culture through dance, music, and costumes, acting as guardians of national heritage.

6. UZBEKISTAN

Ensemble “Bukhorcha”, Bukhara

A country of ancient Silk Road heritage and Islamic tradition. The ensemble presents refined choreography and traditional music, reflecting centuries of cultural richness.