The Fourth Edition of the Festival of East Asian Cultures Dazzled with Color and Inspiration
On May 30 and 31, 2025, Veliko Tarnovo became a vibrant stage for cultural dialogue and artistic expression, inspired by the rich traditions of East Asia. The fourth edition of the East Asian Cultures Festival, organized by Veliko Tarnovo Municipality and St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, with the support of the Confucius Institute, brought together dozens of participants and hundreds of visitors, all captivated by the spirit of China, Japan, and South Korea.
Grand Opening at the Konstantin Kisimov Music and Drama Theatre
The festival began on Friday, May 30, at the Konstantin Kisimov Music and Drama Theatre, where the official opening was attended by a number of distinguished guests. Welcome speeches were delivered by Mr. Neyko Genchev, Deputy Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo Municipality; Assoc. Prof. Anna Ivanova, PhD, Vice-Rector of Veliko Tarnovo University; H.E. Dong-be Kim, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bulgaria; Ms. Wang Min, Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Bulgaria; and Mr. Hideaki Machida, Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria.
The concert that followed was a true spectacle of color, music, and dance. Students from Veliko Tarnovo University, schoolchildren from various cities, and local martial arts clubs showcased elements of East Asian cultures through performances that touched the hearts of the audience.
A Day of Cultural Experiences at the Confucius Institute
On Saturday, May 31, the celebration continued at the Confucius Institute at Veliko Tarnovo University, where from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the square and foyers of Building 5 came alive with workshops in traditional and artistic crafts, Asian food tastings, games, quizzes, exhibitions, and demonstrations of traditional clothing and East Asian board games.
Guests had the opportunity to try their hand at calligraphy, origami, knot tying, and other traditional arts from Eastern cultures.
Throughout the day, students and visitors gave presentations on various exciting topics. Photography and art exhibitions, along with a variety of games and quizzes, enriched the festive atmosphere even further.
A particularly emotional moment was the awards ceremony for the winners of the 15th National Competition “Bulgaria and China – Ancient and Unique Civilizations”, held in the presence of numerous participants and jury members.