1997 + 1998 – HOW IT ALL STARTED

At the beginning, there was enthusiasm and desire ... The enthusiasm of several members of the Pilsen Jiskra Folklore Ensemble who were led by then head of the committee Jaromir Konrady, and the desire to have their own folklore festival in Pilsen. The Jiskra Folklore Ensemble regularly attended international folklore festivals, both in the Czech Republic and abroad but to organize the festival in Pilsen, it was a challenge! The beginnings in 1997 were very modest, from today';s point of view even a bit naïve but the enthusiasm and dedication of the new organizers helped to overcome even the most amateur approach in all areas. Experiences in dramaturgy, organization, technical background, promotion, financing, etc., were therefore gained step by step. Nevertheless, the festival which in the first years of its existence was looking for its own place in the sun, was born.