The International Folklore Festival “Sozopol 2026” concluded with an official award ceremony and closing event, bringing together participants from different countries and presenting the richness of world folklore to a large audience.

The First Prize “Golden Orpheus” in the category “Folk Dances – Authentic Folklore” was awarded to the Greek ensemble Group “Macedonians of Volos” from the Macedonian Association of Volos “Megas Alexandros”, Municipality of Volos, Greece, under the artistic direction of Katsimba Maria.

The First Prize “Golden Orpheus” in the category “Folk Dances – Modern Choreography” was awarded to the Romanian ensemble Ansamblul Folcloric “Transilvania” from Colegiul National “Decebal”, Deva, Hunedoara County, Romania, under the artistic direction of Marin Florin Ilies.

Both ensembles were also honored with the prestigious title “Laureate – First Degree.”

During the ceremony, individual festival awards were also presented. The title “Laureate – First Degree” was awarded to four performers – three representatives from Romania and one participant from Bulgaria.

Special awards were presented by festival partners and co-organizers as well. The award of Community Cultural Center “Otets Paisii 1896” – Sozopol was presented to the Greek ensemble Group “Macedonians of Volos”, while the Special Award of the Mayor of Sozopol Municipality was awarded to Ansamblul Folcloric “Transilvania” from Romania.

Following the announcement of the results, Kaloyan Nikolov, President of the European Association of Folklore Festivals (EAFF), officially closed the International Folklore Festival “Sozopol 2026”, thanking the participants, artistic directors, jury members, organizers, and audience for creating an atmosphere of friendship, cultural exchange, and respect for traditions.

Once again, the festival confirmed Sozopol as an international stage for the meeting of cultures, traditions, and talented performers from around the world.