Etnovyr was founded in 2008 to protect and promote the cultural heritage of Ukraine and to boost tourism. It organized the first festival in August 2008 to celebrate the Independence Day of Ukraine. The festival has been held every year since, except for 2014 when it was canceled because of the Crimean crisis and war in Donbass.
In addition to the annual International Folklore Festival, Etnovyr holds a series of art and cultural events, educational programs and other projects throughout the year. They include an international tourism forum, the Easter Egg Festival, Batiar Day, and more. Etnovyr is a member of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals (CIOFF) and the International Organization of Folk Art (IOV).
The first Etnovyr Festival featured six folk groups from Poland, Mexico, Israel, the Czech Republic, North Cyprus, and Ukraine. The present-day Etnovyr features hundreds of performers from around the world. Over the years, the festival has welcomed the best folk groups from Ukraine, Belarus, Poland, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Spain, India, the Czech Republic, Burundi, Italy, France, Portugal, Macedonia, Israel, Mexico, Martinique and other countries.
The Enovyr International Folklore Festival gives attendees a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the traditional culture, music, dance, art and crafts, cuisine, and customs of different countries. The program of the festival includes vibrant parades that march through downtown Lviv, colorful performances, presentations and demonstrations, singing and dance workshops, and more. The event attracts over 75 thousands visitors over 5 days, offering them an unforgettable cultural experience.
Photo: etnovyr.org.ua