Courtesy of HomeNet Eastern Europe and Central Asia
From 25–30 July 2026, home-based workers, artisans, and representatives from across the region gathered in Pomorie, Bulgaria, for the Tourism Fest “International Traditions and Customs.” The programme continued in Bansko from 31 July to 5 August 2026.
The festival was organised by Pomorie Municipality, Prosveta Community Center – Pomorie, HNEECA, and NSMSBT – Bulgaria. It brought together 65 participants—15 international and 50 national participants—to celebrate traditional crafts, cultural heritage, and the creativity and skills of home-based workers.
A key goal of the event was to strengthen the network of home-based workers and contribute to the creation of a regional brand showcasing locally produced goods, traditional skills, and cultural identity.
As part of the programme, national art competitions were held to select products for participation in the International Festival. Participants also took part in a tour featuring demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills, providing an opportunity to share knowledge, celebrate cultural heritage, and connect with communities and fellow producers.
The festival highlighted the important role that home-based workers play in preserving traditions while creating livelihoods and contributing to local economies. By bringing together participants from different countries and communities, the event created space for exchange, collaboration, and greater visibility for their work.
Under the motto “Traditions in the Future and the Future in Traditions,” the Tourism Fest demonstrated how cultural heritage and traditional skills can be carried forward while opening new opportunities for home-based workers and their communities.
