The festival opens with the traditional call: “Sound, sound, the first trumpet of Dragačevo!”, followed by a joint performance of the historic anthem “From Ovčar and Kablar”. This stirring piece is played by 200 trumpeters at once, creating a powerful musical atmosphere. In the following days, audiences will enjoy performances from top orchestras that earned their spots through regional competitions held in Kovačica, Boljevac, Zlatibor, Kotraža, and Surdulica.
Among the most prestigious awards are the title of “First Trumpet”, given to the individual who demonstrates exceptional technical and artistic skill, and the “Golden Trumpet”, awarded to the orchestra that impresses both the audience and jury with its performance of traditional music.
Beyond the competitive programme, the festival features a rich cultural offering. One of the most colourful events is the parade of participants through the streets of Guča, with singing groups and members of cultural-artistic societies dressed in traditional costumes. A particular highlight is the re-enactment of an old Dragačevo wedding. The bride and groom, dressed in folk attire, ride on horseback through the village accompanied by guests, later presenting the customs of the region on the main stage.
The festival also includes the Folk Pentathlon, where locals compete in four disciplines: high jump, stone throwing from the shoulder, wrestling, and a unique form of marksmanship involving shooting through an apple. The overall winner is named the “Arambaša”, a title of honour within the local community.
No celebration in Guča would be complete without the performances of zdravičari – masters of oral tradition who preserve ancient Serbian storytelling through verse and ceremonial toasts.
During these days, Guča becomes more than just a stage for music – it is a living celebration of folk identity, culinary heritage, and intergenerational unity.
