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The governor visited the event dedicated to the folk Slavic customs and rituals, crafts and military art on Saturday, June 25, 2022.
The historical summer holiday is held in the year declared by the Decree of the President of Russia as the Year of Cultural Heritage of the Peoples of Russia. The main objectives of the festival are popularization of folk art, preservation of creative ancient knowledge and skills, and strengthening of family values. The holiday was organized with the support of the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives within the project "Kupala in Zolotaryovka: Connection of Times and Generations". It is also aimed at the development of the Zolotaryovka tourism cluster.
The festival rightfully entered the 200 National events of Russia according to the version of the "National Calendar of Russia". In terms of scale, saturation, and number of participants, in just a few years it has become one of the brightest in the Penza Oblast and in neighbouring regions. The festival attracts children and adults, whole families come here.
Addressing the organizers and guests of the interregional festival, which was attended by about 3 thousand people, the Governor noted folklore holidays as an important part of the cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia.
"Kupala Festival is a celebration of traditional Slavic and Russian culture. It takes place on historical land– there is a unique archaeological monument of the XIII century – Zolotaryovka settlement very close by," Oleg Melnichenko said.
"We see a rich palette of various crafts and traditional games, which were peculiar to the Slavs. All this serves to preserve our traditions. I think such festivals are necessary," the Governor stressed.
He also explained that the IV Interregional festival "Kupala in Zolotaryovka" is attractive for tourists. He expressed confidence that the development of the cluster will help to increase interest in the history of his native land, the intensity of interregional tourism, and bring attention to the medieval monument in the open air– Zolotaryovsky hillfort.
The festival territory is truly picturesque: forest clearings and paths near fishing ponds, places with gazebos and springs, as well as the banks of the forest river Medoyevka.
The guests of the festival were able to purchase the products of artisans, take part in master classes dedicated to Kupala traditions, the art of herbalists and folk crafts. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, it you could also practice medieval-style archery and take part in games for children and adults.
The life of a medieval settlement and a Cossack village was presented at the historical site. Guests could witness a sword duel and were also treated to dishes prepared according to ancient recipes. Children had an opportunity to play, pet animals at mini zoo, and ride horses.
Performances of professional folklore groups took place at the concert venue. In addition, an interactive game was held and a theatrical Kupala round dance was organized.