Veliko Tarnovo is hosting the XI International Folklore Festival, which starts on 19 July and continues till 02 August. This year the event will gather 16 international ensembles. As a tradition they will stage in open at Marno Pole City Park.For first time so far groups from Malta, Uzbekistan and Ecuador will take place in the fest. There will also be participants from India, Russia, Thailand and Costa Rica. Last year the favourites from Costa Rica performed a song, which later became the hymn of the festival. This year this song will be heard every evening.The traditional colorful opening and closing ceremonies will be very impressive and interesting, the organizers say. Two evenings will be devoted to the Bulgarian folklore.