ALEXANDRIA, 11 July (BelTA) – The festival in Alexandria has become a cultural brand of the country. Deputy Prime Minister Igor Petrishenko made the statement during the solemn opening ceremony of the Kupala Night Festival (Alexandria Gathers Friends) on 11 July, BelTA has learned.
The official said: “Since its inception the festival in Alexandria has become a cultural brand of our country and we are proud of it. The festival features many national traditions, which our craftsmen demonstrate. They've inherited these traditions from their forefathers, grandmothers and grandfathers. I am pleased that young people have gathered here as well. Here they are imbued with the traditions and rites that make up our national culture, our spiritual treasure.”
Mogilev Oblast Governor Leonid Zayats also welcomed guests of the festival. “Welcome to the hospital Mogilev land. It is the 11th time we've gathered in this blessed land according to Slavonic rites. I am happy to see those, who remember and honor our rites, here today,” the governor said. “Guests from Russia and Ukraine have come to us today. We've gathered in a significant spot – on the bank of the Dnieper River that connects our three countries.”
The first ever demonstration of traditional national costumes took place as part of the festival's opening ceremony. Over 100 Belarusian costumes from all parts of the country were featured. Guests from Russia and Ukraine also joined in the demonstration.
