Romanian Folk Festivals Begin in Bistrița‑Năsăud and Mureș

On 15 August 2026 the commune of Șieu in Bistrița‑Năsăud County will host the County Festival of Song, Dance and Costume from the Valea Șieului. Organized by the Bistrița‑Năsăud County Council together with the local mayor’s office and the County Cultural Centre, the event will open at noon with a traditional costume parade and a craft market, followed by awards for couples celebrating 50 years of marriage and a folk‑music programme featuring ensembles such as the Telciu Band, Măgura Șieului Junior, and guest artists including Florentina and Petre Giurgi.

A week earlier, on 1 August 2026, the Festival of the Gurghi Valley will launch on the Platoul Fâncel in the commune of Ibănești, Mureș County. The festival, run by the Association of Gurghi Valley Communities with support from the Mureș County Council and the prefecture, will showcase local folk groups, solo singers and dance troupes from the surrounding villages. Highlights include performances by the “Cununa Călimanilor” ensemble, a mini‑football competition, and evening concerts by the Live Expression Band and other regional artists.