The 18th Bolesławiec Ceramic Festival officially began with a colorful parade. At its head marched drummers, followed by the Ceramic Brotherhood, representatives of the municipal and county authorities, and partner cities. Local ceramic makers marched alongside them.
The dance schools made a beautiful showing—the female dancers were dressed in sensual, oriental costumes. Representatives of the Nowogrodziec municipality wore deliciously colorful kontusz coats styled after medieval garments.
Our neighbors from Lwówek Śląski were also present; they always invite Bolesławiec residents to the parade marking the opening of Agate Summer. Two large figures of Pawlak and Kargul arrived together with the residents of Lubomierz.
The presentation prepared by the platinum sponsor of the Ceramic Festival—the City Center gallery—made an exceptional impression on the spectators. Models dressed as wild animals greeted residents somewhat predatorily from a black-and-white Jeep.
The parade ended in front of the large stage. Mayor Piotr Roman handed the city keys to the Ceramic Brotherhood. There was also a cake for the Bolesławiec festival's eighteenth birthday. Only the weather failed to cooperate. The ceremonial opening of the festival took place in pouring rain.
One more parade, part of the Bolesławiec Ceramic Festival, is still ahead of us. On Saturday, clay figures in elaborate, original costumes, out of love for clay, will walk around the Market Square. The Clay People Parade will begin at 1:00 p.m..
Friday's events ended with performances by Daab and Paco Sarr. On Saturday, Ray Wilson & The Berlin Symphony Ensemble will perform.
(information: ii)