The Jubilee XXXV "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" Officially Opened
17.07.2026
"Dobry vechar, hovoryts i pakazvaye Vitebsk" – according to tradition, this welcoming phrase in three East Slavic languages marked the grand opening of the XXXV "Slavianski Bazaar" festival of arts.
After the welcome, the hosts gave the floor to the President of the country. Addressing the audience, artists, and organizers of the forum, Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that without them, this celebration would not exist.
– I know that today, as many years ago, Belarusians, Poles, Russians, Ukrainians, and representatives of dozens of other countries who came to us visa-free are present in the hall. Your presence here is the unshakeable foundation that our world needs, a world so fragile, unstable, and absolutely incomprehensible in its development. We have done and will continue to do a lot to ensure that "Slavianski Bazaar" remains the basis for sincere and strong friendship between countries and peoples. This is so needed today, - stated the Belarusian leader.
He expressed confidence that with their support and sincere audience love, the further history of the festival will be long and bright.
After his speech, the Head of State presented the Grand Prix to Elizaveta Tsuprik from Belarus, the winner of the XXXV International Children's Music Competition.
For the first time in the history of "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk," Alexander Lukashenko presented two special awards "Through Art – to Peace and Mutual Understanding": they were awarded to outstanding composers Alexander Zatsepin and Leonid Zakhlevny.
The opening concert of "Slavianski Bazaar" turned out to be truly stellar: famous Belarusian and foreign performers appeared on stage.
From the very first chords, the audience recognized "Yesaul" by People's Artist of Russia Oleg Gazmanov. The multi-thousand amphitheater sang along to every line of the medley. The artist, who will soon turn 75, proved that age is not a barrier when familiar hits are played on stage.
Music, a circus show, and songs about love – all these were organically interspersed on the main Vitebsk stage.
One of the highlights was the appearance of all participants of the current International Pop Performers Contest with Taisiya Povaliy, the winner of the very first Grand Prix of the "Slavyansky Bazaar" festival in 1993.
– Vitebsk is my creative homeland! "Slavyansky Bazaar" is the best! – said the singer.
And what about the rain? There was none at this year's opening of the forum! The heavens broke tradition: instead of the usual "festival downpour," there were stars, not only in the sky over Vitebsk but also on the main stage.
After the family duo – Vladimir Presnyakov and our compatriot Natalia Podolskaya – performed the song "How I Love You," the singer addressed Alexander Lukashenko, recalling with a smile how he once told her not to marry a "Muscovite." Natalia Podolskaya apologized for her choice but assured him that she was incredibly happy in her marriage.
The entire amphitheater space, even the air, was utilized to the fullest. The gymnasts created not just performances, but living architecture.
The solemn opening of "Slavianski Bazaar" concluded with the festival anthem "All the Flowers of July," accompanied by Leonid Zakhlevny. The final chord was a fireworks display that colored the starry sky.