The Expo Caravan – Pavilion of Play arrived in Raška, where citizens at the main town square were introduced to Specialised Expo 2027 Belgrade, as well as the cultural, historical, natural and sporting heritage of the region. Marija Šljivić, Deputy Director of the Finance Sector at EXPO 2027 d.o.o. Belgrade, highlighted Raška’s diverse offer, from Kopaonik, Golija and Jošanička Banja to monasteries and the cultural heritage of the Ibar Valley. “When we talk about Expo 2027, we are talking about the world coming to Serbia, but it is equally important what we will show that world. Our ambition is for visitors, during the 93 days of the exhibition, to also discover the country hosting them – its cities, nature, culture, gastronomy and people,” Šljivić said. More than four million visitors are expected during Expo 2027, while the “Discover Serbia” programme and the “Serbian House” pavilion will present destinations, identity, culture and creativity from across Serbia. So far, 10,000 candidates from 119 countries have applied for the volunteer programme, while organised school visits are also planned with parental consent.
Deputy President of the Municipality of Raška Jovana Mutavdžić emphasized that the arrival of the Expo Caravan is an opportunity for Raška to present its people, culture, tradition, hospitality and natural wealth. The programme featured the “Frula” Folk Song and Dance Ensemble, KUD “Raška” and accordionist Nemanja Čamagić, while visitors could also see the exhibitions “From Koprivnica to Eternity – Heroine Milunka Savić” and “Faces of the Nemanjić Dynasty”, discover traditional crafts and authentic local souvenirs, and take part in the “Little Genius” workshop. The sports programme included taekwondo, table tennis, karate and cycling, while a space dedicated to innovation was organised with the support of Telekom Srbija, platinum sponsor of Specialised Expo 2027 Belgrade. Expo 2027 Belgrade will take place from 15 May to 15 August 2027, with more than 140 confirmed international participants and around four million domestic and international visitors expected, while the Pavilion of Play will visit more than 30 cities and municipalities across Serbia this year, with Novi Pazar as its next stop.
Photo credits: Expo 2027 Belgrade/Dragan Kujundžić