Festivals

The Festa e Ullirit (Olive Festival)

This is a well-established tradition in Durrës, Albania, organised annually by the Shoqata “Durrësi Autokton” in collaboration with the Durrës Municipality. The festival typically takes place in late October to celebrate the olive harvest and its cultural significance.

The festival, in its 20th edition by 2018, has grown into a significant event for Durrës, highlighting the city’s ancient connection to olive cultivation, evidenced by amphorae used for olive oil transport since the 1st century AD. It also promotes tourism and local traditions, with participation from regional associations.

In the 2024 event, performances by singers, comedians and dancers were interspersed with videos and talks celebrating and honouring notable local figures with titles such as “Nderi i Qytetit të Durrësit” (Honor of the City of Durrës). Three doctors—Dr. Enver Kotorri, Dr. Fiqiri Deliallisi (posthumously), and Dr. Arben Haxhihyseni were honoured.

“Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival 2025”

From theWorld of Festivals website: "From June 25 to 29 2025, the enchanting coastal city of Durres, Albania, became a stage for the vibrant traditions and mesmerising performances of folklore ensembles from Poland, Romania, Montenegro, and Lithuania at the Durres Folklore Festival. The Festival was more than just a showcase of talent—it was a celebration of unity, friendship, and cultural exchange under the golden Albanian sun. As the final notes faded and the last dances came to an end, participants departed with hearts full of pride and cherished memories, forever connected by the magic of Durres and the bonds they forged."

International Festival "Durres Fest"

From the European Association of Folklore Festivals website: "The International Festival 'Durres Fest" is a celebration of cultural diversity which is best shown through music. The main purpose of the festival is to celebrate the richness of the diverse cultural roots of different countries. Different countries will show their specific identity and the other countries will learn something more about other people’s history and customs. The main purpose of the festival is to provide a field for folk and modern groups and singers from different countries to show the uniqueness of their folklore, to preserve and promote their culture, tradition and cultural heritage and to make new friendships."

More festivals to be added