Folkowisko – Remarkable Festival in Gorajec

HOW IT STARTED

It was 2008, and Marina Sestasvili and Marcin Piotrowski – the future organizers of Folkowisko – stood on the wedding aisle. The lavish wedding was attended by guests from various corners of the world. Then came the anniversaries of their wedding, which attracted more and more guests each year. The influx of visitors gave the couple the idea to organize a festival. And so, "Folkowisko" was born.

HISTORY

The festival started on a small scale – meetings of folk culture enthusiasts, raids on local tourist attractions, and evening dance feasts. However, over time, the number of participants grew. In 2019, it attracted as many as 5,000 people.

Since 2011, each edition has its unique themes around which the program is built. These have included: Ukrainian Culture, Jewish Culture, Peasant Culture, Culture is a Woman, The Great Migration, Three Galicias (Polish, Ukrainian, Spanish), Wonders Wreaths, To the East, Forefathers' Eve, Time Machine, Wedding, Divination and Elements.

SMALL GORAJEC, A BIG EVENT

The festival takes place in the small village of Gorajec, inhabited by only 32 people, on the border between Poland and Ukraine. Here, in a magical place called Chutor Gorajec, Folkowisko is born. It's a place full of ideas, familial warmth, and a unique atmosphere.

 

MUSIC FROM POLAND AND ABROAD

Artists from Poland and various European countries come to Folkowisko to present mainly folk music live. Polish bands that have performed include Dagadana, Żywiołak, Tadirindum, R.U.T.A., Hańba, and Wernyhora. The festival has also featured artists from Ukraine, Belarus, Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia. There's something for everyone.

 

Folkowisko Festival, photo: Marcin Trzpiot

 

AND NOT ONLY

Besides great concerts and musical performances, Folkowisko offers participants many other attractions. These include fascinating workshops with original names and ideas! For example, "Music from the Dumpster – Summoning the Rain!" are workshops where 100% ecological, recycled instruments are used. There was also learning to weave on somewhat forgotten looms and working with spindles.

Folkowisko is also an opportunity to explore the region through raids and excursions, which take place, for example, at night or at sunrise. Participants can engage in meetings with authors, debates on culture and tradition, and watch film shows related to folklore.

It's worth mentioning the Gorajec Wonder Fair, where you can purchase handicrafts, unique clothing, jewelry, and other interesting items.

KIDSVILLAGE FOR THE LITTLE ONES

For the youngest participants, a reliable KidsVillage is prepared. It is a specially designated and adapted place for children, where they are safe and have great fun. Attractions dedicated to children are always prepared as well.

AWARDS

Folkowisko quickly became one of the most important European festivals dedicated to traditional culture. It has been twice selected into the prestigious circle of the best festivals in Europe, receiving the title of Remarkable Festival, awarded by the European Festivals Association. This recognition appreciated the international program, intimacy, and cultural mix of the event.

FOLKOWISKO IS MORE THAN A FESTIVAL

It is not just an artistic event – Folkowisko is a platform for the integration of the local community. Through its events, it promotes local traditions and allows residents to express their passions. Additionally, it offers workshops and meetings with the local population, which are important elements of cultivating the region's cultural heritage.

ROZTOCZE: THE UNDISCOVERED TREASURE OF THE SUBCARPATHIAN REGION

Visiting Folkowisko, it is also worth spending time exploring Roztocze – a region that attracts more and more tourists each year. From beautiful, forested trails, through historic churches, to picturesque landscapes – Roztocze offers countless attractions waiting to be discovered. The Folkowisko Festival, being one of the most interesting events in Roztocze, perfectly fits into this atmosphere, encouraging the exploration of local culture and nature.

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Photo: Marcin Trzpiot