32nd Folk Art Fair

It could seem that today, when the rapid technology boom and the accompanying social development alienate people from their tradition and cultural roots, folk art has been consigned to oblivion. Those who believe so could not be more wrong! The Folk Art Fair, organised uninterruptedly for the last 30 years on Krakow's Main Square, proves the vitality of folk handicraft and the need to cultivate it. Not only can visitors buy handicrafts, but also learn about various techniques, such as pottery, sculpture, embroidery or lace-making and even try their hand at those difficult crafts.

Almost 400 craftsmen from Poland and 100 from abroad will participate in this year's edition of the fair. Apart from the folk exhibition and commercial stands, numerous folk bands will demonstrate their artistic skills. The shows will feature regional bands, soloists and music groups from Poland and abroad. Artists from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Ukraine, the Russian Federation, Belarus and Latvia have agreed to take part in the event.

PROGRAMME

22 August (Friday)
Noon - Opening of the Folk Art Fair
Opole Day

23 August, Saturday
Concert of the artistic bands of "Cepelia" and their guests, entitled: "Cepelia to Krakow and its visitors and tourists".

24 August, Sunday
Czech Republic Day

25 August, Monday
Russian Federation Day

26 August, Tuesday
Ukraine Day
Promotion of the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Concert of the Participants of the 40th International Festival of Highland Folklore in Zakopane (featuring bands from India, Italy, Turkey and Romania)

27 August, Wednesday
Nadnidziański Fair
Pinczów Town Day
Concert of the bands of the 21st International Student Folklore Festival (performers: bands from Hungary, Turkey, Germany, Venezuela, Mexico, India, Greece, Moldova and Russia).

28 August, Thursday
Slovakia Day

29 August, Friday
"The Harbinger" – a preview of the 60th anniversary of Nowa Huta
Concerts of the Nowa Huta Song and Dance Ensemble, Hamernik Highlander Band, the Nowa Akademia Musical Theatre and shows of dance groups

30 August, Saturday
"In the Borderland of Cultures" - presentation of Orawa

31 August, Sunday
"Podhale Fair"
Nowy Targ Day
Folk Art Fair Finale.