Goral Folklore Festival

Ždiar, Bachledova dolina – Belianske Tatras came alive from 7 to 9 August 2026 with singing, dancing and unmistakable Goral temperament. The jubilee 30th edition of the Goral Folklore Festival attracted thousands of visitors to BACHLEDKA, confirming its status as one of the most eagerly anticipated summer events. More than 12,900 people attended the festival, enjoying an incredible atmosphere, star performers and a celebration of the rich Goral heritage at an altitude of almost 1,200 metres.

FRIDAY: EMOTIONS, THEATRE AND THE UNMISTAKABLE ŠTEFAN ŠTEC

Friday’s programme kicked off the three-day marathon of music and entertainment with a mix of folklore and activities for all age groups. The pleasant afternoon atmosphere was set by the musical duo Lucia Haladejová and Ferko Jaroš, followed by the popular RAMAGU theatre with a fairy tale for the youngest visitors.

The undisputed highlight of the first day was the performance by Štefan Štec. He brought the immense power of tradition, captivating emotions and the unique energy of folklore in a breathtaking modern form to the stage. His unmistakable voice resonated perfectly with the mountain setting and created a magical start to the entire event. Friday evening then smoothly continued with true Goral entertainment at the PANORAMA Restaurant, where singing and good spirits continued into the night, led by the Jendrichovskí brothers.

SATURDAY: CHILDREN’S JOY WITH MIRO JAROŠ AND A MUSICAL EARTHQUAKE WITH KALI AND IMT SMILE

Saturday in Bachledka was marked by big names, family entertainment and a strong connection with folklore. From the morning onwards, the area filled with families with children, for whom an unforgettable programme was prepared by Miro Jaroš. Experiencing his energetic, cheerful and interactive performance right at the top of Spišská Magura was a dream come true for the young visitors and brought a huge wave of joy to the area.

Traditional culture and the strength of original dance were then brought to the main stage by FS Zemplín. However, as evening approached, the programme culminated in concerts rarely seen in Bachledova dolina throughout its history. The first musical hurricane was popular rapper KALI with his show, which got thousands of fans in attendance dancing.

The absolute highlight of Saturday evening and of the entire festival was delivered by the most successful Slovak band IMT Smile. Experiencing a concert by Ivan Tásler and his band at a festival outside their own tour is an extraordinary rarity for audiences. Beloved hits that bring generations together, performed beneath the majestic panorama of the Tatra peaks, created an electrifying and moving summer atmosphere that the audience will never forget.

SUNDAY: ŽDIAR MUNICIPALITY DAY AND A CELEBRATION OF PROUD GORAL HERITAGE

The final day of the event traditionally belonged to local artists and the municipality of Ždiar itself. After the festive holy mass, the stage filled with the colours of Goral costumes, music and dance. Local ensembles such as FS Goral and DFS Ždiaranček performed, joined by FS Kicora from Lendak, FS Maguranka, the GOROLI singing group, FS Šarišan, FS Vagonár, as well as cross-border guests – FS Giewont from Zakopane and  FS Biołodunajcanie from Biały Dunajec.

Visitors admired Goral heritage not only on stage, but throughout the entire area beneath the Treetop Walk. Craftspeople and local shepherds introduced families to the traditional way of life. The dominant feature of the area once again remained four-metre straw sculptures of “Goral” and “Goralka”, admired by young and old alike every year, while thanks to the woodcarving symposium, a new carved wooden gate was added, connecting Goral culture and nature in a single work of art.

The organisers sincerely thank all participants, visitors, performers and event partners for creating this unforgettable experience. The 30th Goral Folklore Festival once again proved that a love of folklore, mountains and good music brings people together, and that the Goral heart beats stronger than ever in Bachledka.

The event is supported by the national tourism promotion organisation of the Slovak Republic – SLOVAKIA TRAVEL. The main mission and priority of the national organisation SLOVAKIA TRAVEL is to promote Slovakia as an attractive holiday destination both on the domestic and international markets.