The best festivals to learn about Hungarian traditions

Hungary is a rich country when it comes to folk festivals. Traditionalist events, festivities are held all over the country to commemorate and celebrate history, culture, art and more. Magyarorszagom.hu collected eight of these, so that you can plan amazing trips to different regions.

Paprika Festival of Kalocsa

Being the No°1 spice of Hungary, it’s no surprise that there’s a separate festival celebrating paprika. The Hungarikum paprika forms an indispensable part of the Hungarian cuisine. The festival is held in Kalocsa every September. The event aims to popularise and preserve the heritage of the region with artistic programmes, cooking competitions, and wine and pálinka tasting.

Romantic Age of Reforms Festival

The festival commemorating the age of reforms (1825-1848) is held near Lake Balaton. It is a real time-travel back to the 19^th century, the time of the awakening of the Hungarian national self-awareness. Traditional cultural elements like clothing, music and art also flourished back then, and this is what the festival commemorates every year at Balatonfüred. The festival is going to be held between the 21^st and 24^th of September this year.

Easter Festival of Hollókő

Hollókő is the ultimate destination if you want to learn about Hungarian traditions. The dwellers of the village, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, celebrate Easter like no one else. They welcome guests with folk performances, artistic and artesian workshops, which create a unique atmosphere. The way they preserve traditions is simply beautiful.

Wine Weeks of Badacsony

Badacsony, found at Lake Balaton, is mostly known for its wine culture and traditions. A two-week long festival is organised in honour of wine every year. The Wine Weeks of Badacsony is a must-visit festival for wine lovers, because you can taste the famous specialties of the region. The festive atmosphere is guaranteed by folklore shows and live music. If you’re in the area, visit the festival between the 14^th and 30^th of July.

Busó Walking of Mohács

The streets of Mohács are filled with fun and joy every February at the biggest carnival celebration of Hungary. During the busójárás (busó walking) people dress up and wear masks to scare away winter and welcome spring. The celebration originates from the Croatian Sokác ethnic group, but it also became an event of key importance in Hungary. It will be held between the 8^th and 13^th of February next year.

Lavender Festival of Tihany

The Tihany Peninsula is found at the northern coast of Lake Balaton and it is known to have a unique panorama and environment. Thanks to its magical lavender fields, Tihany turns purple every year. The view and smell of the typical flowers attract so many people that even a separate visitors’ centre (Lavender House) was built. You can pick your own lavender bouquet and learn about the flower at the festival held in June.

Summerfest International Folklore Festival

The festival that was launched in 1987 aims to preserve the traditions of folk music and dance. Summerfest has grown into an international festival, where performers from all over the world gather to showcase their traditions and celebrate each other’s culture. The programmes are held in Ráckeve, Tököl and Százhalombatta. The festival will be held between the 12^th and 22^nd of August.

Festival of Folk Arts

The Castle of Buda turns into a festival venue every August to celebrate Hungarian traditions. Folk art workshops from all over the country come to present their special goods and methods. Meanwhile singers, dance groups and performers entertain visitors on the main stage. The festival is a great chance to learn about Hungarian crafts and folk arts. Visit the Buda Castle between the 17^th and 20^th of August.

Featured image: www.facebook.com/Hollókő, az élő falu

Ce: bm

Source: http://www.magyarorszagom.hu/