SA Travel

Bergen, Norway is known for its offerings of a selection of fresh seafood sold in the fish market or prepared by talented chefs however once a year, when the weather starts to turn a bit cold the moderately sized town plays host to a unique contemporary art festival. The festival has offerings of virtually every type of art and celebrates the creation as well as the final product. Visitors have the opportunity to view the finished products, learn about the process and of course, have the opportunity to be creative on their own.

Thousands of people travel to this town from all over the world to experience the delights available at the arts festival, several different venues are all used as theaters for various productions by theatrical and dance companies, including original pieces that are produced only for the festival.

Music is another highlight of the event; folk music and contemporary classical music concerts are both on offer. However, the real centerpiece is Flazz, BergArts a jazz focused programme that includes various offerings such as contemporary big band music, poetry, vocal jazz, classical jazz and ethnically oriented music. It is a gathering of star performers presenting both traditional pieces and developmental pieces for the large audience.

A number of innovative filmmakers will present films from all over the world at BIFF, the Bergen International Film Festival. With over 50,000 attendees in 2011 the festival continues to grow every year. Awards will be presented to the best films and educational workshops and seminars are available for budding filmmakers and the curious.

The literature festival presents opportunities for writers and publishers to present their current offerings for the public, giving everyone an opportunity to engage with the artist behind the work. Classes offered by specialists in virtually every topic for amateurs and professionals alike.

The city is easy to navigate on foot, with a good amount of comfortable accommodations for visitors and views that are spectacularly relaxing and photographic at the same time. Anyone needing a break from the festivities can find entertainment at the local art museum, aquarium, the science center, maritime museum, natural history museum, or can take a relaxing tour of the fjord or harbor to experience the natural beauty of the area that is incomparable to anywhere else.

The Bergen Art Festival is a unique opportunity to experience a wide variety of internationally known art in a very short period of time, the variety of the available pieces and the beauty of the surrounding country make the Bergen Art Festival a must for anyone looking for a unique opportunity to get away and experience the arts.