“Vjosa n’Fest”: Albania dances by Europe’s last wild river

“Vjosa n’Fest”: Albania dances by Europe’s last wild river

Culture

The “Vjosa n’Fest” festival in Albania gathered this weekend numerous citizens of Memaliaj as well as local and foreign visitors.

Over the course of two days, the city of Memaliaj hosted the fourth edition of this festival, promoting the extraordinary tourism potential of the area, CE Report quotes ATA.

“Minatori” Square served as the stage for the folkloric festival, with the participation of numerous artists of southern folk music.

With traditional costumes, rich rhythms, and heartfelt emotions, this festival became a living testimony to the folk culture and ethnographic wealth of the region.

Also present at the festival were singers Fifi, Anxhela Peristeri, and Fjoralb Dedja, along with other well-known artists who lit up the stage with their extraordinary performances.

During the two days of the festival, numerous activities were organized, such as horseback riding, hiking, rafting, paintball, and exhibitions.

Part of the festival was also a poetic evening filled with emotion and art in “Minatori” Square, where several local writers gathered, including Feti Zeneli, Majlinda Nana, Enkelejda Fejzo, Manushaqe Çela, and Vasil Nasi.

With their heartfelt verses, they offered reflections on life, love, homeland, and the human spirit, creating an intimate and inspiring atmosphere for all present.

This evening once again proved that poetic expression lives in the heart of the community and that the art of words continues to build bridges of sensitivity between generations.

Particular attention was also drawn to the Handicraft and Culinary Fair, where traditional products and the cultural values of the area were promoted. Artisans and homemakers from the region and other cities exhibited their unique products, such as handmade clothing, sweets, and traditional dishes that carry the taste and history of our land, as well as other local products.

This fair not only promoted cultural and culinary heritage but also created a festive and cooperative atmosphere within the community.

The aim of this festival is to promote and protect one of the country’s rarest natural treasures — the Vjosa River. This celebration connects traditional culture with modern rhythms, nature with creativity, and people with the Vjosa, the last wild river in Europe.

Tags

Related articles

OKO Festival to Screen 90 Ethnographic Films
The 6th OKO International Ethnographic Film Festival will take place in autumn 2025 across Bulgaria and Ukraine, presenting 90 films from 52 countries in seven main sections, Festival Executive Director Serhii Zeinalov told BTA on Tuesday.
Sacrée Femme Festival Celebrates Femininity
A festival titled Sacrée Femme (Amazing Woman) will be held from August 1 to 3 in the village of Vetren, located on the Danube River in Bulgaria’s Silistra Region.
John Demos Opens Panigiria Photo Exhibition in Sofia
Renowned Greek photographer John Demos will open his Panigiria exhibition on July 31 at the Synthesis Gallery in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Culture Ministry Adopts LIK Typeface for Official Use
Bulgaria’s Ministry of Culture has started using the Bulgarian News Agency’s LIK typeface in its official correspondence, press releases, and upcoming website redesign.
Ukrainian Culture Day Unites Communities in Moldova
The village of Iabloana in Moldova’s Glodeni district hosted the second Ukrainian Culture Day, celebrating Ukrainian traditions, music, and heritage.
"Audience Favorite Announced at Burgas Song Contest"
The song Spomen ot Predi, performed by newcomer Philip Donkov, won the Audience Award at the 42nd Burgas i Moreto (Burgas and the Sea) National Song Contest on Saturday. With lyrics by Ruzha Mateeva and music by George Miltiyadoff, the entry was selected by live audience vote at the Summer Theater in Burgas.