Balfolkariya and Toplocentrala invite you to celebrate European Folk Day together on the terrace of Toplocentrala! #Europeanfolkday Event concept by Olga Datcheva, as a part of her initiative “Ethno Globe Fest” and the support of Nikolov Art.

What is Balfolk? This style reflects the revival of traditional European dances and music from various regions, often accompanied by live music. It includes dances like schottische, polka, mazurka, circassian circle, repasseado, rondo, Irish dances, Balkan dances, and more, presented in a contemporary interpretation so that anyone can join without previous experience. Dances are performed in a circle with many people, in chains or pairs, often with partner rotation, allowing everyone to dance with each other. The focus is on the social aspect – experiencing the joy of dance and music, fostering a sense of community among European cultures, and building friendships. 

What to expect on September 21st:

20:30 Short presentation of Balfolk dances and Balfolkariya.

21:00 Workshop on schottische, circassien circle, andro, hanter dro, gavotte and other European folk dances + life music

22:30 Open Folk Jam session

After the dance workshop, the evening will continue with folk music jam sessions and learning melodies from the dance workshop, as well as some other tunes as polka and mazurka, which will be studied in the autumn course of Balfolkariya. Musicians interested in getting to know the Balfolk repertoire are welcome to participate in the jam session. 

What to expect afterward: In October and November, there will be an autumn Balfolk course where you’ll get to know the most commonly seen dances at Balfolk festivals across Europe. 

Admission: Donation.