Struga, a vibrant town resting on the shores of Lake Ohrid, transforms each summer into a hub for poetry lovers from around the globe during the International Poetry Nights festival. This event isn’t just a gathering of words; it’s a dynamic cultural adventure staged outdoors where verses meet the gentle lapping of the lake and night air hums with creative energy.

The festival typically runs in early August, drawing poets and audiences to an open-air amphitheater carved into the lakeside promenade. Here, poetry pulses under the stars, with voices weaving between the rustling willow trees and water daring to echo their cadence. The performances are raw, fierce, and diverse — a chance to engage directly with contemporary poetry in multiple languages.

For visitors planning to immerse themselves in this mix of art and nature, the town’s compact layout makes accessing events easy. Struga’s streets offer charming cafes and quiet spots perfect for quiet reflection between readings. Arriving early helps secure good seating and the chance to absorb the festival atmosphere before the words start flowing.

Getting there is straightforward with Ohrid airport just 15 km away. From there, rental cars or local buses connect easily to Struga. Accommodations range from lakeside guesthouses to more economical hostels, fitting various budgets.

While the festival itself doesn’t demand physical preparation like a hike, the nearby terrain offers excellent opportunities to explore before or after the poetry nights. The forested hills around the lake challenge day adventurers with well-marked trails that reward trekkers with sweeping views of the water—a sharp contrast to the intimate closeness of the festival.

Practical tips help maximize your experience: carry a lightweight jacket as the nights beside the lake cool noticeably after sunset, bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you wander between venues, and prepare for some evenings that stretch into the quiet hours, making pacing important. Good walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the town or surrounding hills on foot.

The International Poetry Nights of Struga provide a unique chance to witness poetry as a living, breathing event that thrives in public space—a meeting ground for cultures and generations. This is an adventure of the mind and senses, where the natural landscape isn’t just a backdrop, but an active participant. The lake’s waters seem to hold the words, carrying them onward, while the trees lean close, listening fiercely.