In August, the 44th Mostra Folklorica Internacional, one of the oldest and most prestigious folklore festivals in Spain, took place in the Spanish town of Viveiro, Galicia. This year, the festival gathered over 250 groups from around the world, and for the first time in history, representatives from Kazakhstan participated — the State Dance Theater “Naz” and the ethno-folklore ensemble “Qorqyt”.

These talented performers brought the vibrant atmosphere of their native culture to the stage, performing dances and music on traditional Kazakh instruments such as the dombra and the kobyz. The famous “Adai” kui was especially striking.

Throughout the festival, Kazakhstani artists were surrounded by the attention and support of local fans of Dimash Qudaibergen. As shared by the Dears, they were thrilled to see the Kazakh flag flying at performances and during the Parade of Nations that took place on the streets of Viveiro. The live interaction was also memorable: fans exchanged impressions of the cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Spain, discussed Dimash’s upcoming concert, and even joined the Kazakh musicians and dancers in performing the famous song “Daididau.”

Gifts were also exchanged. Spanish fans presented Kazakhstani artists with a traditional Galician tambourine and copies of a national newspaper featuring an article on tourism in Kazakhstan, written by journalist and Dimash fan Yolanda Garcia.

The festival in Viveiro was yet another testament to how art can unite nations, erasing borders and overcoming distances.