Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by davidd

Las Ramblas gets its name from a stream that used to run in the same path before the area was developed in the 16th century. Numerous bars and cafes are lined along the boulevard, and the boulevard itself is lined with large, shady trees. Mercat de la Boqueria is a colourful market that’s reputed to be one of the best in the world. The Erotica Museum and the Wax Museum on Las Ramblas are both fascinating places to pass a bit of time.

Las Ramblas is a crowded, popular tourist attraction, so paying attention to personal safety is advised for those visiting the street. Pickpockets and scam artists are somewhat plentiful, and some areas are best avoided after dark. Experienced travellers realize, however, that these things are fairly common in many of the world’s best cities, and that a bit of caution can go a long way towards ensuring personal safety.

Bus services in Barcelona are excellent, and Las Ramblas can easily be accessed from any part of the city. It is advised not to obtain lodgings along Las Ramblas itself if the traveller desires a quiet place to sleep, but those who are looking for fun nightlife will find many suitable accommodations along the boulevard.

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It was back in 1953 when the Východná Heritage Festival was first held. Originally, the festival was held in an open air field that overlooked the village; however, within the last decade a large theater was developed in the area in order to house the annual event. Every year, usually during the first weekend of the month of July, the Východná Heritage Festival is held in the newly constructed open-air theater.

Due to the fact that the Východná Heritage Festival is now considered part of the International Council of Organizations for Folklore Festivals and Folk Art, more than 1500 performers come to the festival every single year in order to entertain almost 100,000 people who regularly attend the annual event.

For the most part, much of the Východná Heritage Festival is held within the open-air theater, however there are a number of smaller events that can be found throughout the village; before, during as well as after the annual event. You will also find a number of kiosks located throughout the city during the event in order to ensure that there are plenty of refreshments and things to eat for the numerous visitors who come to this sleepy little village areas. The festival itself is also recorded and presented around Slovakia thanks to the efforts of state Slovak Television.

There is also a substantial amount of effort being put into ensure there is sufficient lodgings in and around the village of Východná in order to accommodate large influx of visitors. There are countless warding houses, hotels as well as other accommodation facilities that can be found in and around the village.

The Východná Heritage Festival is definitely a unique and interesting Festival to visit regardless of whether you are simply visiting Slovakia for the season, or even if you live there year-round. You are bound to stay entertained throughout your entire trip to the sleepy little village of Východná. So if you are visiting Slovakia during the early part of July, make sure to take a day and head on over to the Východná Heritage Festival.

Photos by festivalvychodna.sk

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