Elena, Bulgaria: On May 3, 2023, the Festival “Joy in Elena”, organized for the sixth year by the People’s Community Center “Napredek – Elena – 1863” on the idea of the dance group “Balkanjiche” with the head of Mrs Yordanka Grancharova, was held under the patronage of the Mayor of Elena Municipality Eng. Dylan Mlzev again gathered thousands of folklore lovers from all over the country.
A special guest on the deer stage at Hristo Botev Square was the folk singer Yuri Krumov, who delighted the audience with his songs on Friday night.
The joy and dancing did not stop on the second festival day when it was also the opening ceremony by the mayor of Elena Eng. Slug. The leading and long-standing chairman of the NCH “Progress – Elena – 1863” – Eng.
Dimitrina Ivanova also welcomed on behalf of the hosts, noting the importance of such events aimed at popularizing the Bulgarian beat and culture and the colourfulness of our folklore art.
“Through festivals like this, build our identity and affirm the presence of dance and music folklore in contemporary life while promoting the continuity of the younger generation,” she noted.
All participants were evaluated by a competent jury in the field, including Chairman – Mrs Antoaneta Asenova – Danova, Dr Petyo Vanev and Mr Svetoslav Petrov.
Despite the great competition and everyone’s stunning performances, the jury was able to distinguish the best of them. Of course, the winners received prizes from the event sponsors and certificates from the organizers.
The Festival “Joy in Elena” ended with a lot of colour and emotions, as well as wishes for health, happiness and longevity, a tireless spirit, an unquenchable fire in souls and an appeal to all participants and guests to continue to carry the songs and dances in their hearts.