Our national festival
FOLKFEST
Traditions that unite.
The national folklore festival of songs and dances, organised by AKV ILIRIDA and the Municipality of Shtime, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. Every September, Shtime becomes the epicentre of Albanian folklore.
First Edition
In honour of Youth Day, the national folklore festival of songs and dances was held for the very first time. The festival had a competitive character: the grand prize, presented by mayor Qemajl Aliu, was won by the «Bresana» Ensemble from Opoja, with further awards for best dancer, choreography, costumes and singer. Special guest was the singer Violeta Kukaj.
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Second Edition
The festival expanded to two nights: a parade of ensembles from the House of Culture to the «Eli-ab» Shopping Centre and competitive performances with 11 ensembles from Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia and Montenegro. The artistic council was led by Besnik Brahimi. Winners: AKV Decani (1st place), SHKA Malësori — Gjonaj (2nd place), AKV Zëri i Kamenicës (3rd place).
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Third Edition
The third edition of FOLKFEST is expected to be announced by the organisers. Dates, programme and participating ensembles will be published on the official channels of AKV ILIRIDA and the Municipality of Shtime.
Explore EditionHeritage
A heritage that lives
through every generation.
Our embroidered costumes, dances, songs and rites are not memories — they are an everyday act of living. In every rehearsal, on every stage, at every festival, we pass them on exactly as we received them: with pride.