The festival has been a sought-after international cultural and social event since 1991. It was built upon the craft and guild traditions of the free royal town of Kežmarok. Since then, every year for three days, Kežmarok is transformed into a marketplace of crafts. The event is preceded by a historical parade through the town and a ceremonial opening in the spirit like it was in the past. Fencers conquer the town walls and the gate, more than seventy stalls for craftsmen, the castle and its courtyard, and the architecture of the burghers’ houses on the castle and main square create a unique and an extraordinary atmosphere.
More than 100 craftsmen and folk artists from Slovakia and abroad demonstrate up to fifty different types of crafts in front of visitors. Various artists and folklore ensembles from Slovakia and other countries perform, while actors bring closer the traditions of the guilds that once existed in Kežmarok. An engaging program and attractions are prepared for children as well. History, guild customs, and knightly combats are presented to visitors through performances by theatre groups, historical fencing groups, and martial arts ensembles. Foreign and domestic folklore ensembles present their national cultures.
The program offers visitors a rich cultural experience and, combined with the presentation of crafts, creates an unforgettable atmosphere and space for cultural and social activities.
Informations
Kings of the Craft
“The EĽRO Festival is literally a celebration for us. There are more than enough events focused on the sale of folk art products in Slovakia and neighboring countries. However, EĽRO is a true festival, a genuine celebration of folk craft. For us, it is the only event we attend as makers, and it is a truly great honor to present Slovak folk musical instruments, demonstrate their production, play on the streets all day long, and meet people… We are probably among the few who have been performing there continuously for about 25 years, and it is always a real privilege. This year, we feel as if a part of our very 'selves' is missing. After all, how can summer begin without EĽRO? Well, it is what it is. This year will be a forced break, but in our spirits, Paľko and I will be there in the Kežmarok square, playing music, chatting, drilling whistles, and looking forward to meeting again in a year."
(Michal Smetanka a Pavol Urda, kings of 2008 from Spišský Hrhov)
Main partners
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Európske ľudové remeslo
Mestský úrad Kežmarok
Hlavné námestie 1, 060 01 Kežmarok
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