IT CIOFF® International

Festivals organized under the auspices of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF®) are much more than celebrations of tradition, music, and dance. First and foremost, they serve as a global platform for international understanding, which places a profound responsibility on us as an international organization dedicated to safeguarding its members. The CIOFF® certificate is a brand that demands excellence. Below are the key pillars that form the...

In the heart of the Adriatic, on an island where the stars shine brighter than anywhere else in Croatia, a 540-year-old tradition has just received the highest global honor. In late 2025, the Lastovo Poklad was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Register of Good Safeguarding Practices . For the CIOFF® family and heritage lovers worldwide, this isn't just another entry on a list. It is a masterclass in how a community can protect its soul against the tides of commercialism and time. The...

In a world that often feels divided by borders and digital screens, there is a place where the heartbeat of humanity remains synchronized: the International Folklore Festival . Under the banner of CIOFF® , these festivals are far more than mere performances. They are vibrant, sensory manifestations of our shared history and a powerful tool for global peace. But what is it that makes these gatherings so essential in the 21st century? 1. Safeguarding the "Living" Heritage When we think of...