The 30th anniversary edition of the Karlovy Vary Folklore Festival will take place from 3 to 7 September 2025, featuring an exceptional line-up of artistic ensembles.

Since 1996, Karlovy Vary has been regularly brought to life by a colourful whirlwind of costumed dancers and folk musicians. Over the years, the festival has flourished, thanks to the dedicated work of volunteers. In 2010, the event was officially recognised by the International Organization of Folk Art (IOV), which brings together prestigious international folklore festivals.

This five-day showcase of artistic performances across twelve stages will feature international folklore groups from Slovakia, Poland, Austria, Romania, and India, along with eleven ensembles from Bohemia and Moravia, including the local Song and Dance Ensemble Dyleň. The large number of participating groups gives audiences and city visitors the chance to experience the atmospheric blend of folk tradition and spa town charm.

The festival opens to the public on Wednesday 3 September with a traditional folk craft fair on T. G. Masaryk Street, running through Sunday. On Thursday, guests are invited to the ceremonial opening at the Imperial Hotel. Friday morning features an educational programme for school groups from across the region at Hotel Thermal. In the afternoon, as more Czech ensembles arrive, stages along the Teplá River come alive with performances. Saturday is the highlight of the festival, with a captivating parade from the Hot Spring (Vřídlo) to the edge of the spa centre. In the evening, all ensembles will perform on the grand stage during the gala event at Hotel Thermal. Sunday morning begins with a celebratory toast at the Market Colonnade, followed by a series of performances in front of the spa colonnades. The final show of the vibrant week will take place on Sunday afternoon at the newly renovated Postal Court (Poštovní dvůr).

In addition to the craft fair, the accompanying programme includes a Saturday vintage car exhibition. This year’s anniversary will also feature a concert by the Karlovy Vary Symphony Orchestra and the opening of the exhibition “30 Years of the Karlovy Vary Folklore Festival” at the City Museum, starting Saturday at 2 PM. Open-air performances are free of charge; tickets are required for the more technically demanding programmes at the Imperial and Thermal hotels. Visitors can find detailed information at kffestival.cz or on social media (Facebook, Instagram). The event is suitable for all ages.

https://kffestival.cz/rocnik/30-kff-2025/

Author: Hynek Rint