The ensemble “Romanasul” from Romania was announced as the winner of the 16th edition of the International Festival “Aulona Folk”, held for four days in the city of Vlora.

The festival trophy was presented to the Romanian ensemble on the final night by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment, Vilma Bello.

The final night of the festival concluded with a concert featuring selected performances from all participating groups of this edition.

For four consecutive days, 300 artists from folk groups representing Italy, Ukraine, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Greece, Hungary, Romania, as well as ensembles and groups from Albania, turned the coastal city into a hub of European folk not only for the spectators who followed it near the stage set up in the “Flamurtari” Stadium square but also in the streets and squares of the city.

The festival’s opening at the historic Flamurit square, costume parade on Ismail Qemali Boulevard, concerts in the open spaces of the Historic Center, Lungomare, Orbital Forest, visits to the National Museum “Independence,” and everywhere on the streets and sidewalks gave Vlora a festive atmosphere with colorful costumes and rhythms.

The General Director of the festival, Sejmen Gjokoli, told ATSH that “besides the cultural dimension, which was demonstrated through songs and dances from each represented country, there was also significant interest in cultural tourism, where participating artists experienced the magic of the sea and the Vlora coastline up close.”

The festival was organized by the Cultural Center “Aulona,” with the main support of the Municipality of Vlora.

/k.s/