National Folklore Festival, which is being organized in Gjirokastër, has become a dominant motivation in the characteristic works of local artisans. Master stonemasons, woodcarvers, embroiderers, etc, are making souvenirs with images from the Folklore Festival and its symbols. Artisans claim that tourists look with great interest at these souvenirs but also at other elements of tradition.

“I have made the castle of Gjirokastër, carved in wood, in different shapes and sizes so that it is attractive to foreign and local visitors. Similarly, one of the elements that I have made is the sol key, which is related to all musical branches, I have also made this in different shapes and sizes”, says master dulcimer Anastas Petridhi.

“Several days have passed since Gjirokastër has been buzzing with songs and dances from all over Albania and from outside the country, and this is also accompanied by cooking while welcoming guests from all over. Mainly the dishes that are liked by tourists are the traditional ones of Gjirokastër”, says the master of traditional cuisine Dëfrim Gjoça.

The Folkloric Festival has returned after 8 years to Gjirokastër, transforming the stone city into a center for the celebration and promotion of Albania’s national values.