It traditionally began with a reference to Balkan roots—in this year’s case, so-called “market conversations,” which were in fact the memories of re-emigrants. Then it was time for the signal to begin the festivities: “Ajde Jano,” performed by the Zespół Pieśni i Tańca Ziemi Bolesławieckiej and other bands, rang out across the sports field. This Serbian song expresses a longing for a joyful life and dance. It also signaled the welcoming of guests, including, among others, the ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina Duško Kovačević, honorary consul of the Republic of Serbia Ranko Tomović, honorary consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina Jacek Gunther-Ślaski, counselor at the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia Jelena Marković-Krstić, and many others. This year, the hosts’ task was to twirl a scarf, which was done by Bolesławiec municipality head Andrzej Dutkowski and Bolesławice village head Andrzej Kosior. Although the opening was meant to be more spectacular—a plan the weather effectively thwarted—the joint performance of “Ajde Jano” made a huge impression on those gathered.
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It was time to bring the stage to life. The members of Veselin Masleša, the star of the Festa, took care of that. The group, which had already stolen the hearts of local residents during Friday’s concert in Brzeźnik, once again showed what it could do—perfect dancing, expressive performances, and voices that many people attending the Balkan Festa could only envy.
They were followed by: Zespół Śpiewaczy Ocice, Zespół Pieśni i Tańca Ziemi Bolesławieckiej, the Choir of the Association of Re-emigrants from Bosnia, Their Descendants and Friends, Zespół Niespodzianka, Kapela Herbutów, Zespół Nasza Biesiada, and the Gminny Zespół Pieśni i Tańca “Jutrzenka”.
The joint photograph of guests, ensembles, and re-emigrants has already become a tradition, and it was taken again this year. Representatives of the embassies and other guests received a memento of this year’s Festa from the municipality head: a wooden casket containing a mystery item.
This year’s Balkan Festa was exceptional and moving because Ambassador Duško Kovačević’s term is coming to an end. Many people call him a friend of the Festa. It was therefore a time for farewells, but also for assurances that he would return to Bolesławice for many more Festas. The diplomats spoke warmly about how widely and positively our local event is discussed beyond the country’s borders. The guests praised the Organizing Committee of Bolesławice village for its openness and hospitality, repeatedly emphasizing that the atmosphere of friendship is the hallmark of the Balkan Festa.
The “Love Memories” competition and a raffle were also decided, and the band Vitre Moi performed at the end of the event. As usual, those interested could try their hand at making pita during workshops organized by Lipiany – Wioska Smaków and the Bożejowice-Rakowice Rural Housewives’ Circle, as well as drink genuine brewed coffee. The dependable ladies of the Bolesławice Rural Housewives’ Circle took care of the feast for the palate, serving delicious dishes.
More information and photographs can be found on the website of Bolesławiec municipality.