The First Evening of the Festival

As with all festivals, people from the region came with crafts. Local women were selling table clothes and jewelry. From nearby villages women came with the traditional clothes of area. One person brought a collection of musical instruments. And a group from Kosovo came with various items. During there problems with Serbia, they have been refugees here and received aid .






The students of the community come to welcome all. Included in this was the mayor and other important people of the region. The judges were also introduced. While all of these performers showed different dances tonight. When the competition begins only 6 girls will dance and two will sing. But for tonight, I enjoyed seeing all part of the festival.




There are not only children representing their communities, local performers join in the celebration. Sadly, I had to ask about each singer. Many grew up nearby and now live elsewhere. I think this is also a highlight for those attending. A free concert from professionals adds to the delight.




From Macedonia was a group that I think really are professional. Loved the costumes. And the performance said much the traditions of dating long ago in the area around Lake Ohrid.