The Most Beautiful Parade of Traditional Romanian Costumes
Every year, on June 24th, on Sânziene's Day according to a traditional pre-Christian calendar, Craiova hosts its most beautiful festival. Organized by the Craiova City Hall, the Dolj County Council, and the 'Maria Tănase' Folklore Ensemble, the city's inhabitants dress in traditional Romanian clothing, forming a parade that crosses the city from Mihai Viteazu Square to Romanescu Park. The star of this festival is the IA (Romanian traditional blouse), a white shirt embroidered with traditional motifs, worn by both women and men, but differing in decorative patterns, coming from ancient times. The colors and beauty of the folk costumes are enchanting. At the end of the parade, in Romanescu Park, an exhibition with traditional Romanian clothing for sale and a folklore show presenting music and dances from the Oltenia region take place.
The Spirit of the Festival: Why Do We Celebrate the Ia in Craiova?
The "Craiova Wears the Ia" festival is more than just an event – it's a manifestation of local and national pride, a special occasion where the Craiova community celebrates one of the most powerful symbols of Romanian culture: the ia. Discover the purpose of this festival: to honor the beauty and craftsmanship of the traditional blouse, to promote authentic crafts, and to bring together generations of Craiovans and visitors in an atmosphere of celebration and respect for ancestral values, often around the Universal Ia Day (June 24th).
Living Tradition in the Heart of Oltenia: Program and Atmosphere
Get ready to be part of an explosion of color, music, and good cheer! The festival transforms Craiova into a living stage of traditions. The program usually includes impressive parades of folk costumes, traditional music and dance performances, craft fairs where you can admire and purchase authentic Ii and traditional objects, interactive workshops (sewing, weaving), themed exhibitions, and moments dedicated to local gastronomy.
The Romanian Ia: A Story Sewn onto Fabric
At the heart of the festival is the ia – a masterpiece of traditional Romanian textile art. Learn more about the significance of the hand-stitched motifs, the symbolism of colors, and the regional variations of the ia, with a potential focus on the specifics of the Oltenia region. Admire the complexity of the embroideries, the fineness of the materials, and the craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation. The Ia is not just a garment, but a cultural identity card, a testament to Romanian creativity and spirit.
Craiova Community in Celebration: Unity and Pride
"Craiova Wears the Ia" is, above all, a community celebration. The event brings together people of all ages – children, young people, parents, and grandparents – united by their love for tradition. Come and see how Craiovans, as well as guests from other areas, proudly wear their inherited or newly acquired Ii, actively participate in events, and support local artisans. It is a demonstration of unity, collective joy, and reaffirmation of cultural identity in the heart of Oltenia.
Join us for other events in Craiova too!