Kezmarok was previously a free royal town. It preached the glory of artists, writers, poets, merchants, but also excellent craftsmen.

Established in 1991, the Folk Crafts Festival or El'ro, is already a favorite festival amongst international cultural and social event goers.

Always held during the second week of July and for three days Kezmarok's town center is converted and decorated. Events preceding the festival are the historic town parade and opening ceremony. As in the ancient times the towns castle or H'rad has been raided, attacked, damaged, torn apart and burnt. The opening ceremony consists of fencers whom are to conquer the walls and gates, which in these days adorns the square and is the gateway to the festival selling grounds.Over seventy contemporary stands for craftsmen are placed in the castle, the courtyard and the main square to complete the precious environment and extraordinary atmosphere.

More than 180 craftsmen and folk artists from Slovakia and abroad present over fifty kinds of crafts before the eyes of visitors. Under their hands they yield interesting products from wood, wicker, straw, leather, clay, metal, glass and other materials that can be purchased on the spot. Participation of young craftsmen in this event highlights and confirms the future of the project, now called El'ro.

For lovers of entertainment, humor and folklore during the three days of Elro offers a rich program in the local amphitheater, stage area set-up next to the castle and the town hall, where traditionally showing its various artists and art folklore ensembles from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, France, Italy, Spain and the actors closer to the traditions of guilds, which in the past existed in Kezmarok.

For children Elro offers an interesting program, attractions, puppet shows, horse and pony. WIth children in mind are also attractions that the parents can enjoy.

The fact that attendance and interest in the crafts festival held in Kezmarok from year to year is increasing indicates good organization and welcomes us that good on hearsay that Kezmarok flies far beyond the border.

More pictures athttp://www.flickr.com/photos/24962525@N05/sets/72157621248956597/