Event: Poland - Zakopane

International Highland Folk Festival

When:	22 - 29 Aug 2008 (annual)
Where:	Zakopane
Costs:	Free

One of the oldest and biggest folk events in Poland, the annual International Highland Folk Festival was first held in 1969. Highlanders from all over the world congregate in Zakopane to celebrate their customs through regional costumes, music and dance.

The festival opens with a colourful street parade in which all participating groups take part. The programme traditionally includes the Coachman of the Year contest, a best male singer contest and a Highland wedding.

Competition is stiff - the groups are assessed by a jury consisting of international team specialists - folklorists, choreographers and ethnic musicians. The groups are tested for authenticity, choreography and adaptation of original folk culture.

Of course, the event is not just about taking home the prizes. A series of concerts, exhibitions, fairs, visits to the studios of local artists, trips to the Tatra mountains, folk dance workshops and open-air events ensure that fun is had by all. The festival ends with a prize-winners' gala during which the Gold, Silver and Bronze Ciupaga (highland axes) are awarded.

Concerts take place in tents located close to the main streets of Krupówki and Kosciuszki. The festival parade follows a traditional route through these streets.