Camera, action, Šariš!
Competition ŠARIŠ REEL 2026 It’s all over now, and we’re delighted to say that Šariš has talent to spare. Over the course of six weeks, from 19 August to 30 September, you sent us videos in which you showcased our region exactly as we’d hoped: authentic, distinctive and full of life.
We’ve seen it all. Castles from above and from round the corner, dawn on Čergov, old ladies speaking a dialect that deserves its own subtitles, local specialities, folklore, traditional costumes, humour and situations that only those who have experienced the real East will understand. Thank you to everyone who took the time to get out their phone and share their little piece of Šariš with us.
How the decision was reached
The expert judging panel did not have an easy task. They assessed each video individually on the basis of the originality of the idea, the quality of the production, its ability to engage the viewer, its authenticity, and how well it showcased the region. After much viewing, laughter and debate, the results are clear.
Winners of the Šariš Reel 2026 competition
🥇 1st place – €500
Jan Kmec
Professionalism, creativity, humour and the splendour of the Šariš wilderness. These are the key words that came up during the evaluation of a video depicting two people’s journey across Šariš with a clear aim – to capture the most beautiful and wildest aspects of our region’s unspoilt nature.
🥈 2nd place – €300
Antónia Fogašová
Have you ever thought about where your roots lie and what really matters in life? Yes, it’s also about the environment you find yourself in and where you come from. The creator of the second winning video reminded us of this in her film, which makes you slow down and appreciate the fact that if you’re from Šariš, you’re richer than you think – wherever you look, you’ll find a beautiful spot, and a fond memory awaits you round every corner. And if you’re not from here, it’s high time you popped over and discovered what it’s like to live the Šariš way!
🥉 3rd place – €200
Boris Váhovský
Do you know what Šariš has given to the world? History itself proves that there is more to it than meets the eye. We’re not just talking about beer, salt mining or opal mining; we’re also talking about medical advances, banking, royal residences and unique cuisine. Šariš has given all this and more to the world – and you still have the chance to experience and discover it here in our region today.
Jury Prize
In addition to the three winning entries, the jury decided to award a special prize. The Jury Prize goes to the video by the creator The Women of Finci and Čomovare / Marianna Jurková. This Reels video caught our attention with its concept, linking a local legend to the traditions of Šariš and offering a glimpse into a typical day in the life of a family living in Šariš. With humour and a light-hearted touch, it showed that Šariš is not just about the dialect, food and dances, but also the superstitions and stories that shape it and have been passed down through generations. Although it did not make it onto the winners’ podium, the jury agreed that it deserved special recognition, as it embodies precisely what makes Šariš Šariš: authenticity, warmth and a touch of liveliness.
The author will receive a prize from us in the form of OOCR Šariš Region merchandise.
Congratulations!
We would like to offer our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners! The organiser will contact them regarding the collection of their prizes.
Šariš has come to life, thanks in part to your videos
Although the competition has ended, the videos haven’t had their final say yet. The winning entries will be given a new lease of life on our social media channels or in our campaigns. Follow us on Facebook a Instagram, you might well find what you’re looking for there soon.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
