Galicnik Wedding Festival

The idyllic village of Galicnik is hidden between Macedonia’s highest mountains and is famous for its photogenic beauty. However, its nature is not only the main feature attracting tourists to Galicnik. The small village is also famous for preserving Galicnik Wedding that’s several centuries old. This celebration, which takes place once a year in July over two days, combines tradition, local customs, and legacy.

The event began when Galinik had only 5,000 residents in the early 20th century, with its isolated position and lack of industry causing many of its younger citizens to migrate to larger towns in search of work. As a result, it was decided that those who had left the village would return every year on the Saturday closest to St. Peter's Day. Many engaged couples prefer to marry on this day so that they can spend their wedding day with family and friends before moving into their new residences.

Locals today celebrate Galicnik Wedding by marrying one couple in the traditional method, dressing up in traditional costume, and performing a number of ceremonies that include playing instruments, singing, and dancing the Montenegrin Tekoto, a must-see show performed by a group of local men.

When: July 12th

Where: Galicnik, Macedonia