19 countries take part in the over-50s gymnastics festival in Burgas

The first European gymnastics festival for people over 50 - the Golden Age Gym Festival 2024 - starts today in Burgas.

More than 1,400 representatives from 19 countries in Europe and Japan are taking part in the event, which will last until 27 September. The festival will kick off with an impressive parade of participants from 17.30 this evening. They will set off in two beams from the Flora Exhibition Centre and the Sea Casino Cultural Centre to meet for the opening ceremony at the city's Summer Theatre.

The procession will be led by girls and boys dressed in traditional costumes and carrying the flags of their respective countries. Musicians from the Burgas Wind Orchestra will add to the festive atmosphere.

The event is organised by the European Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation, the Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation and Burgas Municipality.