Ancient City Hosts Global Folk Festival This June

The international folk art and crafts festival 'Sadko' returns to Veliky Novgorod from June 19-21. The three-day event promises a vibrant showcase of traditional music, dance, and artisan skills.

The schedule is packed with activity. Following an opening-day arts workshop, the festival proper begins on June 20 with a procession through the city's historic center. An official opening ceremony at the Millennium of Russia monument in the Novgorod Kremlin will lead into a concert titled 'Round Dance of Cultures' at Yaroslav's Courtyard. That same square will host a crafts fair and interactive workshops under the banner 'Creative Unity.'

On the final day, the action moves to the Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Wooden Architecture for the 49th regional summer folklore festival, 'There's Always a Round Dance at Our Gates.' This outdoor celebration features performances by folk groups, traditional costume displays, games, and another market. The workshop area will also remain open.

Named for Sadko, a legendary 12th-century Novgorod merchant, the festival first took place in 1990. Over the decades, it has welcomed folk ensembles from 23 different countries. This event continues a rich cultural season for the city, which recently saw the Mariinsky Theatre launch its 'Genius of the Place' festival with a concert conducted by Valery Gergiev.