The Association of Bulgarian Folklore Ensembles Abroad (ABFSCH) and "Postal Box for Fairy Tales" are joining forces to prepare the second edition of a large-scale cultural event that will turn Burgas into a hub for national tradition. Between September 18 and 20, 2026, the seaside city will host the "Burgas Brings Us Together" festival, an initiative organized with the support of the Burgas Municipality and the Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad (IABA).
The philosophy of the forum is built on the conviction that folklore knows no geographical borders. It serves as a bridge that connects generations, preserves our collective memory, and builds cohesive communities among our compatriots abroad. To turn Burgas into a unique map of the Bulgarian cultural presence in Europe, 300 participants will head to the city, divided into 20 folklore formations from 18 different cities and 10 countries, including Norway, Moldova, Cyprus, Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain, Great Britain, France, and Switzerland.
The program will bring a rich spectrum of performers to one stage – from dance ensembles and singing groups to choirs, instrumentalists, and international collective formations. Among the participants who will showcase their art are groups such as "Na horoto" (Graz), "Kitka" (Burgos), "Sedem Osmi 7/8" (Harlow), "Mayski ritmi" (Augsburg), "Lazarka" (Munich), "SamoDivi" (Innsbruck), FR "Ritmika" (Milan), TS "Sborna druzhina" (London), "I-HA" (Oslo), "Gayda" (Frankfurt), "Entuziasti" (Bad Neuenahr), "Nashentsi" (Milan), "Rodolyubie" (Taraclia), and "Ot Izvora" (Lyon). The musical part includes the "Bulgarska roza" Folk Choir (Munich), the "Beli rozi" choir (Pescara), the "Kitka" choir (Vienna), as well as the "Lev" ensemble (Rome and Colleferro). The collective formation "LELE MALE" has been created especially for the occasion.
One of the most exciting moments will be the presentation of the "Bulgarian Rose Around the World" project. This is a joint international group uniting representatives from nine formations bearing this name, from six countries (Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, Cyprus, and Italy). Their joint performance is a symbol of the aspiration of Bulgarians to keep the connection with their homeland alive, regardless of the thousands of kilometers of distance.
Behind each of the 20 formations are people who dedicate their personal time to rehearse and pass on the folklore heritage to future generations. The festival is their homecoming – a celebration of the community, supported by media partners.
Festival Program
- 18.09.2026 /Friday/: 12:00 – 17:00 arrival and accommodation of groups; 17:00 – 18:00 technical meeting, distribution of badges and programs; 19:30 – 21:30 opening and first concert evening at the Summer Theater; 22:00 – 24:00 horoteka (dance party) with an official dinner at Hotel "Marina".
- 19.09.2026 /Saturday/: 10:00 – 13:00 organized visit to St. Anastasia Island (departure from Magazia 1, Sea Station); 17:30 – 19:00 grand horo dance, group photo, and drone filming at St. St. Cyril and Methodius Square; 19:30 – 21:30 second concert evening at the Summer Theater; 22:00 – 24:00 horoteka with an official dinner at Hotel "Marina".
- 20.09.2026 /Sunday/: 10:00 – 13:00 visit to the Chengene Skele fishing village (departure from Magazia 1, Sea Station); 17:30 – 19:00 parade from the square in front of the Municipality to the Sea Garden; 19:30 – 21:30 gala concert, awards ceremony, and official closing; 22:00 – 24:00 horoteka with an official dinner at Hotel "Marina".
- 21.09.2026 /Monday/: 10:00 – 12:00 departure of groups; 12:00 – 20:00 free time with the option for trips to nearby resorts.
*The program is not final and the organizers reserve the right to make changes in case of unforeseen circumstances.