Struga Poetry Evenings is one of the oldest and most prestigious poetry festivals in the world, held annually in the picturesque town of Struga, North Macedonia. This year marks the festival’s 60th anniversary, a significant milestone in celebrating the power of words and the beauty of poetry.
The festival was first established in 1962 by a group of prominent Macedonian poets and writers, with the aim of promoting the art of poetry and celebrating the diversity of poetic voices from around the world. Over the years, Struga Poetry Evenings has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting poets, writers, and literary enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.
One of the main highlights of the festival is the awarding of the Golden Wreath, the highest honor bestowed by Struga Poetry Evenings. The award is given to a living poet for their outstanding contribution to the world of poetry, and past recipients have included some of the most renowned literary figures of our time.
The festival also features a diverse program of readings, discussions, workshops, and performances, showcasing a wide range of poetic styles and subjects. From traditional verse to experimental forms, from local voices to international perspectives, Struga Poetry Evenings offers a space for poets to come together, share their work, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the power of words.
In a world that is increasingly dominated by technology and fast-paced communication, poetry offers a much-needed pause, a moment of reflection and connection. Struga Poetry Evenings reminds us of the enduring power of language, the way words can shape our experiences, challenge our perceptions, and inspire us to see the world in a new light.
As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Struga Poetry Evenings, let us reaffirm our commitment to the art of poetry and the beauty of language. Let us continue to champion the voices of poets from all walks of life, and to recognize the profound impact that their words can have on our hearts and minds.
In the words of the festival’s founder, Aco Shopov, “Poetry is a powerful force that can transcend boundaries, bridge divides, and ignite the imagination. Let us come together in celebration of the power of words, and let us continue to use our voices to create a more vibrant, compassionate, and connected world.”