Zumba instructors from around the world are descending on Balchik for the 'Alegria' festival

Balchik is hosting the 13th edition of the ‘Alegria’ Zumba Festival, with instructors attending from the United States, Spain, Lebanon, and Hong Kong, BTA reports. The event will run from 5 to 8 September.

This year's programme promises a variety of Zumba styles and themed music parties. The festival will begin with a Zumba marathon in the centre of Balchik, where instructors will demonstrate their routines – and all are welcome to join in for free. The evening will continue with a retro party featuring 1990s hits.

A new addition this year is a workshop on Bulgarian folk dance, led by choreographer and director of the Palitra Art Centre in Dobrich, Ivan Ivanov. This will be followed by a folkloric party where participants are encouraged to wear traditional costumes from their home countries. “There will be foreigners as well as Bulgarians, which will make the evening even more exciting,” said festival organiser Stoyan Stoyanov.

The programme also includes CIRCL Mobility, a stretching and breathing workout, and Nation Strong, a strength training session led by Iu from Hong Kong.

The festival finale features a masterclass with international guests, as well as a professional meet-up where instructors can exchange ideas and support one another – a fitting end to a weekend devoted to movement, music and global dance camaraderie.