Strakonice hosts 26th International Bagpipe Festival

The 26th International Bagpipe Festival has commenced in Strakonice, Czech Republic, bringing together bagpipe ensembles from various countries. The event opened with a 'kasací' performance at the castle courtyard, featuring approximately twelve local Strakonice groups and nearly twenty international guest ensembles.

The festival program includes a variety of events, such as a gala concert for foreign ensembles in an open-air cinema, spiritual music performances, and a 3D pixel mapping show accompanied by light installations of Czech and Scottish bagpipes. On Sunday, performers aim to attempt a new Czech record for the largest number of bagpipers playing together on a single stage.

Festival director Patrik Ředina noted that the Thursday evening format was designed to provide a more intimate atmosphere at the castle courtyard. The event highlights the strong local folklore tradition, with participation from groups such as Dudáci ze Strakonic and Prácheňáček.