The folk dance ensemble “Velchinacheni” from Călărași, Moldova, with artistic director Igor Filipciuc, won first place at the 17th edition of the European Folklore Championship “Euro Folk”. The group earned a gold medal, the Grand Prix Golden “Orpheus” award, and the title of “Absolute European Folklore Champion for 2025”. The winners also received a check worth 500 euros provided by Euro Folk Academy, as well as a souvenir gift set from Bulgaria.

Second place and the title of European Vice-Champion for 2025 went to Kebayoran High School from Jakarta, Indonesia, with artistic director Ouky Surya Timur and music director Dedi Arminall. They received a silver medal, a Silver “Orpheus” award, and a gift set.

Third place was awarded to the Polish song and dance ensemble “Ojcowizna” from the Nemenčinės Cultural Center in Zujuonai, Lithuania, led by Violeta Leonovich. The group was awarded a bronze medal, a Bronze “Orpheus” award, and a souvenir gift from Bulgaria.

The Mayor’s Award of Pomorie Municipality was given to the “Mugurel” ensemble from Călărași, Moldova, with artistic director Igor Filipciuc, who received a diploma for their dignified presentation of folklore art and a gift set.

The Euro Folk TV Award went to the folklore dance group “Pъstra Kitka” from “Vasil Levski” Secondary School – Krumovgrad, Bulgaria, with director Daniela Boyadjieva. The prize includes a free professional video recording. The group also received a special award, certificate, and gift set from Event Vacation agency, which organizes accommodation, transportation, and excursions for forum participants.

The Special Award of the European Association of Folklore Festivals – EAFF was presented to the “Laduta” folklore ensemble from Jonava, Lithuania, with artistic director Vitas Ilekis. They received a special diploma, a book by Prof. Valeria Fol, and a gift set.

Damla Khalil, aged 4, received a diploma as the “youngest participant” of the festival.

The championship was held in Pomorie and Sunny Beach under the auspices of the European Association of Folklore Festivals – EAFF, accredited by UNESCO, organized by Euro Folk Academy with the kind hosting of Pomorie Municipality and Sunny Beach Resort Complex. All participants receive ranking points for the World Folklore Ranking.