Kosovo and Albania conclude the third edition of International Cultural Weeks  

For seven months, Tirana and other cities across Albania came alive with hundreds of cultural events under the umbrella of the International Cultural Weeks, a program organized by the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation. 

This year’s edition opened with Europe Week and, for the first time, featured contributions from Brazil and Mexico, showcasing their cultural richness. The event, which included participation from 20 different countries, culminates with Kosovo and Albania hosting a series of artistic events from November 21 to November 30 in Tirana, Durrës, and Shkodër.  

Highlights of the final week  

November 21: The National Gallery of Arts in Tirana hosted an educational workshop for children. Participants explored library cataloging systems, watched a documentary about the gallery, and discussed notable visual artists and their works.  

November 22: The Aleksandër Moisiu Theatre in Durrës unveiled an exhibition on artificial intelligence in art, featuring a talk by contemporary Kosovar artist Eshref Qahili. Tirana’s National Opera and Ballet Theatre hosted the “Side by side” concert, with soprano Besa Llugiqi and pianist Misbah Kaqamak performing works by Schumann and Strauss.  

November 23: The Pyramid in Tirana showcased Malda Susuri’s project “Të kam në mendje”, addressing mental health awareness and stigma reduction.  

November 25: A series of events marked Albania’s 80th Liberation Anniversary. The National Library displayed collections commemorating key moments of liberation, while the Prime Minister’s Office hosted a fashion show of traditional costumes by young designers. Later that evening, ArTurbina in Tirana presented “Jehonë Shqiptare”, celebrating prominent artists from Albania and Kosovo, followed by the opera “Goca e Kaçanikut”, a story of love and freedom. 

November 26-30: The National Library inaugurated an exhibition honoring the 150th anniversary of Father Shtjefën Gjeçovi, highlighting his contributions to Albanian cultural heritage. Other highlights included the Shkodra Elektronike music project and the “Shije Shqiptare” food fair, showcasing traditional Albanian and Kosovar cuisine.  The square in front of the National Theatre will feature the photo exhibition Keep Calm and Smile by world-renowned Kosovar photographer Korab Basha. It will display 25 black-and-white photos dedicated to the youth involved with Kosovo’s Security Force.

November 27: The National Ensemble of Songs and Dances “Shota” will perform in Shkodër’s “Migjeni” Theatre, presenting traditional music and dances that celebrate Albanian heritage. At the same time, Tirana’s Opera House will host a gala concert featuring the Armed Forces Orchestra. The event, titled “Tingujt që sollën lirinë” will showcase music inspired by the National Liberation War, marking Albania’s 80th Liberation Anniversary.  

November 28: Albania will celebrate its 112th Independence Anniversary with a vibrant parade on the “Dëshmorët e Kombit” Boulevard in Tirana. The event promises a colorful display of traditional costumes, songs, and dances from all Albanian regions, fostering a spirit of unity and celebration.  

November 28-30: Kosovo Cultural Week will feature a curated selection of films at the “Maks Velo” Cinema in Tirana. Titles include “Bota Jonë”, “Sign”, and “Prishtinë 2002”, offering audiences a glimpse into Kosovar storytelling and filmmaking.  

Closing event: The Tirana Art Weekend festival, running from November 29 to December 2, will bring together independent art organizations and collectives, rounding off the International Cultural Weeks.