Spring Festival 2025

An Atmosphere Full of Folklore, Music, and Joy

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, Nestville Park once again transformed into a place where traditional values, culture, and the joy of life came together. The 11th edition of the Spring Festival was organized by the civic association Spoločenstvo zrodené z minulosti. This year’s event was dedicated to honoring the youngest national minority in Slovakia – the Gorals.

The atmosphere of the event was not only sunny and spring-like, but above all filled with emotions, smiles, and pride in the cultural heritage of our ancestors. From early morning, the Nestville Park grounds filled with visitors. They came to enjoy a rich cultural program featuring folklore, competitions, and traditional food.

The Spring Festival officially began with a ceremonial opening, followed by a welcome of participants and a performance by the Ľubovňan folklore ensemble. Visitors enjoyed performances by FS Magura, FSK Taľar, and FS Ľubovňanček. Jožko Jožka, FS Vargovčan, and the energetic ĽH Zamiškovci also performed.

Traditional Flavors and Competitions for Visitors

The presentation of traditional dishes, prepared by local municipalities, was also an essential part of the event. Vyšné Ružbachy, Forbasy, Litmanová, Kolačkov, and Nižné Ružbachy all took part.

Visitors could also enjoy competitions such as wood sawing, drinking žinčica, and eating Spiš sausages. The ceremonial maypole raising, accompanied by folklorists from FS Magura, was not missing either. It brought an even stronger sense of tradition and togetherness to Nestville Park.

Tradition Bearer Competition 2025

One of the main highlights of the event was the “Tradition Bearer” competition. In it, municipalities from the Stará Ľubovňa district competed against each other. The results clearly show that pride in heritage and living traditions is still strong in our communities.

The title of Tradition Bearer 2025 was awarded to the village of Nižné Ružbachy. It won over both the jury and the audience with its presentation, decorations, traditional dishes, and performance. Forbasy placed second, while Vyšné Ružbachy took third place. Other participating municipalities included Litmanová, Kolačkov, and Podolínec, all of which contributed to the diversity and authenticity of the event.

Celebration of Heritage that Connects Generations

The Spring Festival was not only a celebration of spring as a season, but above all a celebration of the spiritual revival of cultural values that we collectively preserve and cherish at Nestville Park.

We sincerely thank all performers, ensembles, municipalities, and visitors whose presence created a unique atmosphere that grows stronger, warmer, and more magical each year. Our gratitude also goes to everyone involved in the organization – colleagues, volunteers, and especially the owners of Nestville Park, thanks to whom we have a place where we feel at home. A place where family, pride, and a living past come together.

We are already looking forward to the next edition! May traditions bloom together with spring!