festival

Góbéfest 2024: Manchester’s urban folk festival returns with vibrant line-up of international music, dance, and culture

góbéfest manchester

Góbéfest, Manchester’s original international urban folk music and dance festival, is back in Cathedral Gardens from Friday 20-Sunday 22 September 2024.

Joint Friday headliners for the independent event, which turns eight this year, are gypsy folk band of the moment and Preston’s finest Mobius Loop and klezmer and Balkan music supremos She’Koyokh.

Whilst Saturday’s headliner is eight-piece central European folk outfit Magyar Banda, fronted by virtuoso Béla Szerény Jr., who also performs with the legendary Márta Sebestyén.

Mobius Loop Góbéfest
Mobius Loop. Photo: Góbéfest

Other acts playing across two stages for the three-day event include Koszika & the Hotshots, Karolina Wegrzyn & Banda, Csjilla, Réka-Kata Regián & Szabolcs Horváth and Solymosi Duo. Further local and international acts are still to be confirmed.

The weekend promises an expertly curated mix of bands and solo artists, folk dance troupes, choirs and more.

Independent food and drink traders will be serving up favourites from around the Carpathian Basin, from giant pans of goulash, to the fried flatbreads known as lángos and Transylvanian barbecued chimney cakes. Alongside craft beer, there will also be a Hungarian wine stall, a cocktail bar and a palinka (fruit brandy) bar.

Free activities in the family tent include music and dance workshops, arts and crafts and storytelling.

Established in 2017, Góbéfest has its roots firmly in Transylvania, but over the years has expanded its reach to cherry-pick some of the finest performing artists from all over the UK and Europe.

góbéfest manchester
Photo: Góbéfest

Returning to Cathedral Gardens, the festival will for the first time be selling day or weekend tickets for Friday and Saturday. Sunday – which has become known as Dance Day – will remain free.

Góbéfest 2024 line up

  • Friday line up from 4pm: Mobius Loop, She’Koyokh, Réka-Kata Regián & Szabolcs Horváth Duo, Solymosi Duo
  • Saturday line up from 11am: Magyar Banda, Koszika & the Hotshots, Karolina Wegrzyn & Banda, Hunique Hungarian folk dance ensemble, Csjilla, Csige Ildiko & Friends, Solymosi Duo, Réka-Kata Regián & Szabolcs Horváth Duo, Soma Band, Berci Bíró
  • Sunday line up from 11am: Monty Folk, Lazlo Baby, Tulip Zither & Folk Arts, Kalinka Balalaika Orchestra, Hunique Hungarian folk dance ensemble, TK Ripni -Ka NW Bulgarian Dance, Tezaur Romanian Folk Dance Group, Podilya Ukrainian dance ensemble, Polonez Polish folklore group, Scattered Collective world music band

Keep an eye on the Góbéfest website or socials for updates as more acts are added to the bill.

More information on Góbéfest:

  • Cathedral Gardens, Manchester M4 3BG
  • Friday 20-Sunday 22 September 2024
  • www.gobefest.com
  • Day tickets from £10 for Manchester residents. Children under 12 free
  • Sunday free for everyone

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Hungarian Festipay strategic agreement for cashless payment services in the Middle East – UPDATED

Festipay

Gulf Strategic Solutions (GSS), a specialist events company in the Middle East and Fesitpay, the cashless payment technology provider, today announced the signing of a strategic alliance with the aim of developing integrated cashless payment solutions and event planning services across the Middle East.

Festipay historic agreement

The new partnership will aim to develop market leading event services, with a focus on the development, promotion and distribution of Festipay’s cashless payment solutions, which have been utilized across several major events across Europe and the Middle East in recent years.

GSS is an affiliated company of Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and was established in 2023 to develop specialist event planning services for third parties, based on its 20 years of expertise in running the Formula 1 Grand Prix and many other significant events for third parties.

Festipay
Festipay at the Bahrein Formula 1 Grand Prix. Source: Press Release GSS – Festipay

Its relationship with Festipay was cemented last year as The Bahrain Grand Prix became a cashless venue for the first time ever, making use of the technology and expertise provided by Festipay. As well as providing integrated point of sale technology across the venue for card transactions, it also developed “BIC Pay” a pre-paid card solution for customers, meaning that fans enjoyed simple, fast cashless payments across BIC. The technology has also been used for other major events at BIC, including The World Endurance Championship and The Bahrain Darts Masters.

Festipay
Festipay in the Buda Castle. Photo: FB/Festipay

Ambitious plans

GSS will work with Festipay to promote and implement the cashless solution and associated technologies to major events across the region.

Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit, said:

“Since its establishment, GSS has sought to partner with best-in-class organisations that share our ambition to deliver high quality events. Festipay’s expertise in cashless payment solutions, as evidenced by it’s work at last year’s Formula 1 race in Bahrain, means that this strategic alliance is a natural partnership for us. We look forward to working with the team at Festipay on new and exciting opportunities.”

Festipay
Source: Press Release GSS – Festipay

László Márki, CEO of Festipay, said:

“Festipay has been a key player in the Central and Eastern European event digital payment market for a decade. A significant milestone for us was that we had won the digital payment service contract for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. And it is equally important that we have found not just a client but a strategic partner in Bahrain, allowing us to collaborate closely in the Middle East. According to the agreement we have just signed, we are entering one of the world’s most rapidly growing digital payment markets in partnership with GSS.”

Festipay
Bahrain International Circuit. Source: Press Release GSS – Festipay

Hungarian government supports Festipay agreement

Hungary and Bahrain are both part of the “global pro-peace majority”, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said after talks with his Bahrain counterpart in Manama on Wednesday.

The world has entered “an era of dangers”, Szijjártó told a joint press conference with Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, according to a ministry statement, noting the ongoing wars in Europe and the Middle East. “And I come from the European Union, an integration gripped by pro-war hysteria,” the minister said. “And since Hungary, by contrast, has taken a pro-peace position, we especially appreciate the countries in other parts of the world which take such a firm and loud stand for peace the way Bahrain does.”
“We are also proud that Hungary and Bahrain are both part of the global pro-peace majority, which does in fact exist despite the fact that European mainstream media constantly tries to deny it,” he added. Szijjártó expressed his appreciation for Bahrain’s efforts to strengthen the stability of the Middle East, underlining that everyone had a right to live in peace in their homeland. “And we will continue to take a joint stand for urgent peace in Ukraine,” he said. “We were in agreement that there’s no solution on the battlefield and that only a ceasefire and peace talks can lead to a solution… Weapons deliveries only aggravate the situation.” “And we will also continue to take joint action against terrorism and terrorist organisations, and we’d like it if the conditions for the release of the hostages were established as soon as possible,” he added.
Szijjártó warned that the growing threat of escalation carried the risk of a re-emergence of geopolitical blocs, saying that Hungary and Bahrain both believed in cooperation and connectivity. He said Hungary urged the European Union to develop the closest possible cooperation with the Gulf countries, resume free trade talks with the Gulf Cooperation Council and reach a visa agreement. “This is why it’s an honour for us that the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit will be held during Hungary’s EU presidency, during which, we sincerely hope, the European countries will hear the pro-peace voice of the Arab countries,” he said.
Meanwhile, Szijjártó said Hungary and Bahrain signed two key agreements on Wednesday. Under one of the agreements, Hungary will from next year offer university scholarships to ten Bahraini students each year. The scholarship programme will guarantee young Bahraini athletes the opportunity to do sports and study in Hungary, he said.
The other agreement concerns the reciprocal protection of investments, the minister said, adding that this was important because of the Hungarian businesses that are about to enter the Bahrain market. He welcomed that Hungary’s Festipay is investing in software development in Bahrain, as part of which it will supply a cashless payment solution at the Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix, “and then hopefully other events as well”. The Hungarian government is supporting the investment with a one million euro grant, he added.
Szijjártó also welcomed that talks on oil and gas company MOL’s investments in Bahrain were “in the home stretch”, and as such the company is set to supply eco-friendly oil extraction technology to the Gulf country. He said an agreement could soon be reached on the construction of a rubber bitumen plant in the country by MOL and its local peer.

The Gulf Strategic Solutions

Based on an unparalleled level of experience in the events sector, GSS is a consulting business for event organization and execution across the Middle East. Leveraging the company’s expertise across all areas of event management, GSS offers turnkey solutions to its clients, which can deliver the detail and operational performance of any kind of major event across the region. The Company has over 20 years’ experience in managing events including the Bahrain Grand Prix, as well as several non-motorsport events for third party clients in Bahrain.

The Festipay

Festipay is Central and Eastern Europe’s leading digital payment and integrated event management service provider, serving thousands of merchants across 13 countries at festivals, events, and hospitality venues. The company has become a trusted partner for organizers and merchants in various industries by offering seamless payment solutions. Festipay specializes in state-of-the-art, integrated fintech solutions and secure transactions, enabling organizers to deliver exceptional event experiences through innovative payment solutions.

Festipay’s services are used at some of the largest festivals in Hungary and Romania. Additionally, they are present at numerous permanent venues, including Budapest’s thermal baths, ski resorts, and entertainment venues.

Beyond its success in providing integrated event management services for Hungary’s and Romania’s largest festivals, Festipay’s achievements include the inaugural UNTOLD Dubai this year. The largest electronic music megafestival in the Emirates also utilized Festipay for entry management and cashless payments. Following its operations in Europe and Southeast Asia, Festipay is now prepared to serve events and merchants in the Middle Eastern countries as well.

Read also:

  • Travel time on Wizz Air flights increases – read more HERE
  • BREAKING: Flights suspended at Budapest Airport due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East – details in THIS article

Budapest beer festival started with 250 beers – PHOTOS

Budapest beer festival

The 8th Downtown Beer Festival in Budapest’s famous Szabadság Square, only one street away from the iconic Hungarian Parliament, started on 3 September. On the offer, there are more than 250 different types of beer, some produced by 17 small breweries, the others made by big beer companies. Without a doubt, we may taste all kinds of beers in Budapest’s heart in the upcoming four days.

According to Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, the beer festival on Szabadság Square opened yesterday with lots of different types of beer: lager, pilsner, and stout to pale ale and wheat beer. Moreover, you may also taste Gombóc Artúr’s favourite chocolates. Gombóc Artúr is a well-known and beloved Hungarian cartoon character eating every chocolate he can in the PomPom series. Read about the series in THIS article.

pompom
Pompom. Source: Wikimedia Commons/Dargay Attila and Sajdik Ferenc

You may buy your beer cup at the venue. The organisers said most people search for IPA beers, but flavoured beers are catching up unstoppably. They are popular in every season of the year, while people tend to buy lager beers in the summer and dark beers in the autumn-winter period.

Festival Hippie is the official beer of the festival, and you can taste it at SPAR’s booth. SPAR is the main sponsor of the event. Just like previously, fans determined the new taste of the festival beer. Based on their votes, Máté Ábrahám and his team produced the new beer. They used five types of hops from Germany, the United States and Australia. As a result, tropical fruit and pineapple aromas are defining the unique beer type.

Gabriella Heiszler, the CEO of SPAR Magyarország, said their customers need an increasing number of variants and a wide offer. She added she believed Hungarians no longer drink their beer alone, sitting in front of the TV. Instead, drinking beer has become an opportunity for social and family interactions, spending time with the people we love, friends, and acquaintances. Therefore, good quality and taste are essential.

Budapest beer festival
Source: Budapest Beer Festival/FB

Craft and draft beers at Budapest beer festival

Therefore, SPAR stores sell 300 different types of beer, 20% made by small breweries. Among the draft beers they offer at their booth during the festival, guests will find the Horizont Hazy Queen, the Pannonhalma Witbier wheat, the FIRST Belgian Cherry, the White Haze Rafa and the Saint Andrew Almost Mango. Of course, they will offer canned and bottled beers for the fans.

It’s not only craft beers but also alcohol-free beers that are emerging on the popularity index. Dr Sándor Kántor, the director of the Hungarian Beermakers’ Association, said the consumption increase of alcohol-free beers increased by 49% compared to last year. Flavoured alcohol-free beers are also becoming more popular. The trade volume in the latter case grew by 29%.

Budapest beer festival
Source: Budapest Beer Festival/FB

The beer festival is to end on Sunday, and the entrance is free.

Hell Energy sales climb 22pc in H1

First-half consolidated net sales revenue of Hungarian soft drink maker Hell Energy rose 22pc year-on-year to HUF 94.0bn, an earnings report posted on the website of the Budapest Stock Exchange, where the company’s corporate bonds are listed, shows. Material costs increased at a slower pace, growing by 15.5pc to HUF 65.1bn. Operating income was up 30.7pc at HUF 14.3bn.

After-tax profit improved to HUF 13.8bn from HUF 5.3bn in the base period when a financial loss impacted performance. Hell Energy noted that sales volume climbed 14pc to 721m units during the period helped by inventory stocking in preparation for the introduction of nationwide mandatory deposit fee system for designated bottles.

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Adrien Brody plays Hungarian emigrant in new film, forms deep connection with role

adrien brody

The American film The Brutalist tells the story of László Tóth and his wife, Erzsébet, a Hungarian couple who emigrate to the United States after surviving the Holocaust. Adrien Brody, who takes on the lead role of László, revealed at the Venice Film Festival that his mother’s Hungarian heritage gave him a profound connection to his character, Index reports.

The Venice Film Festival has attracted numerous actors and directors, including Adrien Brody, Guy Pearce, and Felicity Jones, who star in The Brutalist. The film centres on László Tóth, a Jewish architect from Hungary who moves to America in 1947 in pursuit of the American dream. Initially struggling with poverty, László’s life takes a dramatic turn when he secures a life-changing contract with a wealthy and enigmatic client, Harrison Lee Van Buren, played by Guy Pearce.

During the festival, Adrien Brody explained that his connection to the character was influenced by his mother, Sylvia Plachy, a renowned photographer of Hungarian descent.

Adrien Brody said: “She is a wonderful photographer, but also a Hungarian émigré who fled Hungary in 1956 during the Hungarian Revolution. She emigrated to the United States and, like László, rebuilt her life in pursuit of the American dream as an artist.”

Adrien Brody continued, “I deeply understand the impact of the Holocaust on my mother’s life and her artistic work, which parallels the character’s experiences in the film. The movie portrays how war influences creativity and affects all aspects of life, highlighting the psychological journeys that unfold. Although it’s a work of fiction, it feels profoundly real, and it’s important that films like this not only depict history but also remind us of the lessons it holds for our present.”

Hungarian successes in Venice: films shot in Budapest premiere at the festival

adrien brody, press conference, film
Photo: PrtScr from YouTube / Associated Press

Apart from Adrien Brody, The Brutalist also features Hungarian actors in supporting roles. The film’s editing was done by Dávid Jancsó, the son of the celebrated director Miklós Jancsó, who has previously worked on films such as Delta, White God, and Pieces of a Woman, according to HVG.

The grand, three-and-a-half-hour historical drama received extended standing ovations, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Filming took place in Hungary and Italy in 2023.

Other Hungarian highlights at Venice included the premiere of Zsófia Szilágyi’s new work, January 2, which was supported by the Venice Biennale College – Cinema. This film, which focuses on a separation seen through the eyes of a third party rather than the main characters, was also well-received.

Additionally, Chilean director Pablo Larraín’s biographical drama about Maria Callas, starring Angelina Jolie, was filmed in Budapest and premiered at the festival. The film, which explores the final days of the iconic opera singer, captivated audiences, as reported by Magyar Nemzet. The 81st Venice International Film Festival will conclude on 7th September with its awards ceremony.

Read also:

  • Hungarian film shortlisted for European Film Awards – Read here
  • Fantastic! Hungarian animation film won international award, and qualified for the Oscars! – Read here

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Georgia to be guest of honour at this year’s Budapest Wine Festival

Wine festival

Georgia will be a guest of honour at the 33rd Budapest Wine Festival, and will present its special vintages alongside wines from Hungarian and international producers. The festival running from 12 to 15 September on the terraces of the Buda Castle also features gastronomic specialties and discussions, among other programmes.

Archaeological research indicates that Georgian wine culture dates back 8,000 years, and many of the typical amber, skin-fermented, high-tannin natural white wines produced today are made using very similar methods.

Georgian dishes associated with its different regions will also be on offer as well as gastronomic selections, served as an accompaniment to the wines, as diverse as Indian, French and Taiwanese fare.

Also, celebrated and lesser-known wineries will have the chance to present their wines at the prestigious VinAgora International Wine Competition.

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Beer festival in Budapest awaits beer enthusiasts with over 250 types of beer – PHOTOS

Belvárosi Sörfesztivál beer festival in Budapest

For the 8th time, Belvárosi Sörfesztivál, an outstanding beer festival in Budapest will take place in September. The festival is set to feature both Hungarian and international craft beers and other beer specialities. In addition, you can try Festival Hippie, a beer designed for this festival in collaboration with festival-goers. With over 250 types of beer, you will surely find something that you like!

End summer on a high note

As 444 writes, a prominent beer festival in Budapest, Belvárosi Sörfesztivál, takes place from 3 to 8 September 2024 and will feature over 250 beers, including craft brews from top Hungarian breweries and an excellent selection of international imports. Held at Szabadság Square, the event is free to attend, though a special festival cup is required for beer tasting. SPAR Hungary, a festival sponsor, offers a 50% discount on these cups for customers who spend over HUF 15,000 at their stores between 15-28 August. The festival promises a vibrant end to summer, complete with diverse beer options and gourmet food trucks. If you are a beer enthusiast, you simply cannot miss this event!

Belvárosi Sörfesztivál beer festival in Budapest
Photo: Facebook / Belvárosi Sörfesztivál

Refresh yourself at an amazing beer festival in Budapest

The beer festival organised in the heart of Budapest offers a refreshing experience in this summer heat. In addition, the beer festival in Budapest is set to celebrate Hungarian beer culture by showcasing both the traditional and innovative creations of local craft breweries alongside popular international brands. Attendees can indulge in expertly paired food options that complement the diverse beer offerings. A highlight of the event will be the official beer of the Belvárosi Sörfesztivál, Festival Hippie, available at SPAR’s stand.

Belvárosi Sörfesztivál beer festival in Budapest
Photo: Facebook / Belvárosi Sörfesztivál

Festival Hippie

This light IPA, crafted by brewmaster Máté Ábrahám, reflects the preferences of festival-goers who voted for a hazy, fruity style. Incorporating new ingredients and modern brewing techniques, Festival Hippie offers a contemporary twist on a beloved tradition. This light, hazy IPA, with a low 5% alcohol content, boasts a unique blend of five hops from Germany, the US, and Australia, resulting in a fruity, pineapple-forward flavour. The beer, an international collaboration, is designed to be both distinctive and easy to drink, making it a must-try at the festival.

Great selection

In addition to Festival Hippie, the SPAR stand will offer seven other draft beers, including the aromatic Horizont Hazy Queen, Pannonhalma Witbier, and FIRST Belgian Cherry, alongside a selection of bottled and canned beers. If you are not convinced yet, there are plenty more stands at the festival, offering over 250 types of beer. We are sure that you will find something that suits your taste! With such a diverse range of brews, the beer festival in Budapest is a must-attend event for beer lovers. Be sure to gather your friends and mark your calendars for the first weekend in September to enjoy this celebration of beer culture.

 

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Belvárosi Sörfesztivál (@sorfesztival) által megosztott bejegyzés

PS: do not forget your four-legged friends at home, they are also welcome to accompany you to the festival.

Belvárosi Sörfesztivál beer festival in Budapest
Photo: Facebook / Belvárosi Sörfesztivál

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Hungary’s finest wine festival arrives with refined taste and stylish composition

Budapest Wine Festival festivals

The Buda Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Danube, is one of the most critical sites in Hungarian history and has witnessed many significant events over the centuries. One of the most essential wine events is the Budapest Wine Festival (Budapest Borfesztivál), which will once again take place between 12 and 15 September in the beautiful and imposing walls of the Buda Castle, which defines the panorama of the Danube. Visitors to the Wine Festival will once again be able to admire Hungary’s rich heritage and discover the country’s wine excellence as they stroll through the buildings that preserve its traditions.

Budapest Wine Festival 2024

The event changes and expands according to the needs of the guests, and year after year, it strives to offer a special experience that will make returning visitors fall in love with it all over again. To achieve this, the Wine Festival’s services, professional programs, and offerings are expanding, evolving, and improving. 

The booths of the wineries making their debut this year will be worth tasting, as the attentive festival-goer will find some real gems. For lovers of organically grown grapes, the Quiar Birtok booth is a must, and for those who fancy a trip to the north shore of Lake Balaton, the award-winning wines of PALO Borbirtok are a perfect choice. The Fivérek Borbirtok will bring their best red Hungarian wines from the Szekszárd wine region, but they will also offer a selection of sparkling wines.

Budapest Wine Festival
Source: Zsolt Szigetváry / Budapest Wine Festival

Guest of Honour: Georgia

It is a long-established tradition that the Wine Festival welcomes a Guest of Honour from a country or wine region. This year, Georgia, known as the cradle of winemaking, will showcase its culture, gastronomy, and ancient winemaking practices of 8,000 years, blended with modern technology. Visitors will be able to taste over 500 different types of Georgian wine.

A special tasting master class will be conducted daily from 18.45 to 19.45! (free of charge) You will have an opportunity to enjoy Georgian culture and watch graceful Georgian dance performances on September 13 and 14, starting at 20.00.

Special programs

Following the massive success of last year’s VIP section, this year’s Mitiszol? Party VIP tent will host the only incomparable festival party. At the same time, those looking for exclusive pampering can sip their favorite wines in the tastefully decorated lounge corners of the Hankook VIP Lounge. Whichever VIP zone is chosen, there is guaranteed no shortage of premium wines, gourmet delicacies, and unforgettable entertainment.

Visitors can test their senses and wine knowledge at the VinAgora Interactive Wine Space this year. All you need is a phone and a little knowledge of wine to play the game, which can be started by scanning the QR code. By completing several exciting stages, you will find out whether you are a “beginner wine taster”, “advanced wine consumer” or “true wine enthusiast”.

To add to the range of professional programs, the boring, jargon-ridden presentations will be replaced by exciting POP-UP wine tastings and light-hearted discussions. In the square in front of the Interactive Tent, 18 renowned winemakers will guide the wine-loving public through a sea of flavors and aromas. The free program offers something to discover every afternoon for all who stroll by.

Sunday Brunch invites you to a truly sumptuous late but extended breakfast to bring the last day of the Wine Festival to a proper finish. Taking place on Sunday, 15 September, between 11 am and 2 pm on the imposing terrace of Főőrség and Lovarda, this is a must-attend event for lovers of luxury drinks. It features three champagne rarities and unlimited wine, drinks, and food. 

The 33rd Budapest Wine Festival will once again offer wine lovers a wealth of experiences, magic, sophisticated flavors and aromas, new favorites, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the setting of the Buda Castle Palace!

Budapest Wine Festival – Opening hours: 

Thursday 12 September: 14.00-24.00

Friday-Saturday 13-14 September: 14.00-01.00

Sunday 15 September: 14.00-22.00 (Sunday Brunch 11.00-14.00)

Get tickets and more information on the official site: www.aborfesztival.hu

Hungarian politician talks about revolution of national cohesion in Hungary

Németh Zsolt Fidesz politician revolution of national cohesion

The last three and a half decades have seen a “revolution of national cohesion”, the head of parliament’s foreign affairs committee said at the Tranzit Festival in Tihany, at Lake Balaton, on Friday.

“Revolution of national cohesion” in Hungary

At a panel discussion on the unification of the nation following the transition to democracy, Zsolt Németh said Hungarian politics had “questioned the status quo that essentially said it was impossible to build any sort of political, economic or cultural structure on national cohesion and a unified Hungarian nation”.

He said one important step in this had been the establishment of the Hungarian Permanent Conference (MÁÉRT) during the first government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Afterwards, he added, there had been “countless political, economic, educational, church and civil structures built on this sense of national cohesion”.

“That’s why we can consider the last 35 years a revolution of national cohesion,” Németh said, underscoring the need to “find the opportunities with which we can continue on this path”.

Peace, economic stability, prosperity needed

Miklós Panyi, state secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office, said that the favourable international environment and external circumstances also contributed to enabling Hungary’s policy for ethnic minorities. “It offered a path” that provided an opportunity in bilateral relations to incorporate such issues as minority protection and local ethnic Hungarian community affairs, he added.

Panyi said peace, economic stability, prosperity and good bilateral relations will be needed in the future, as well as strong local ethnic Hungarian representation and a strong motherland that can maintain a strong support system in ethnic minority policy.

Head of the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians Bálint Pásztor said certain initiatives in Hungary’s policy for ethnic minorities had originated from Vojvodina Hungarians, citing the demand for dual citizenship as an example.

Árpád Antal, a senior politician of the Democratic Union of Hungarians in Romania and the mayor of Sfantu Gheorghe (Sepsiszentgyörgy) said the developments since 2010 successfully strengthened Transylvanian Hungarians’ self-confidence and added that demographic indicators have also been favourable.

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Political director Orbán talked about “the Hungarian grand strategy” at Balaton festival

Orbán talked about the Hungarian grand strategy at Balaton festival PM Orbán's political director

The essence of “the Hungarian grand strategy” is to defend the country and Christian culture from attacks, while guaranteeing peace and development for the Hungarian people, the prime minister’s political director said at the Tranzit Festival in Tihany, at lake Balaton, on Friday.

Balázs Orbán discussed the most important objectives of the nation and Hungary’s strategic issues at a podium discussion with lawyer András Schiffer, a founder of opposition LMP and former MP.

Orbán said “the Hungarian grand strategy” also involved a programme for modernisation, maintaining sovereignty and connectivity. The latter enabled Hungary to become a more developed country, building connections in many areas and in many directions in order to achieve its own national goals, he added.

Schiffer said the priority issue in terms of sovereignty was to have competitive production capacities, with Hungary suffering from dependence on global supply chains. He added that energy independence must also be further enhanced.

Orbán said Hungary’s economy was able to react quickly and well to global economic changes and the country was among the leaders in the EU in terms of renewable energy use.

Read also:

  • Drunken Orbán’s Fidesz MEP hits a woman – read more HERE
  • Russians and Belarusians flooding the EU with Hungary’s help? – here’s the minister’s answer

Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts 2024 Showcases Korean Culture

Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts 2024 Showcases Korean Culture

The Korean Cultural Center (Director Yu Hye Ryong) in Hungary participated in the “Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts 2024” to introduce various aspects of Korean culture.

The Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts is Hungary’s largest traditional folk event, now in its 38th year. Since 2021, the Korean Cultural Center has been a partner institution in the festival, and in 2022, Korea was featured as the guest of honor.

According to the Korean Cultural Center, the Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts 2024 was held from August 17 to 20 in Budapest, near Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion. The Korean booth at the festival focused on Korea’s traditional paper culture. Kim Suyeon, a master craftsman, and an educator in the traditional Korean art of Dancheong (Seoul Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 31), hosted a game involving traditional Korean paper plaques featuring Dancheong patterns. Other attractions included traditional Korean calligraphy by Moon Changsuk, Jiesung paper weaving by Cho Eun Sil, and Hanji crafts by Jang Seongwoo. Additionally, visitors were treated to performances of Geomungo Sanjo and Hojub Sanjo dance by dancer Han Sang-eun and Geomungo player Byeon Hyeon-je.

Gabriella, president of the Hungarian Folk Art Association (NESZ) and the festival’s executive director, praised the Korean booth as “always one of the most popular attractions,” adding, “We will continue to invite Korea each year, making it a model of cultural exchange between Korea and Hungary.”

Hungarian Festival of Folk Arts 2024 Showcases Korean Culture
Jiesung paper weaving. Source: Korean Cultural Center

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Sziget Festival 2025 dates announced: Grab your extremely cheap passes now!

Sziget Festival Budapest

The 2024 Sziget Festival came to an end only about a week ago, but the dates for 2025 were announced almost right away. What is even better is that you can get your Super Early Bird Pass for an amazing price now!

Sziget Festival 2025 dates

As Eduline writes, the 2025 Sziget will be held between 6 and 11 August, as it was announced by the organisers right after the 2024 festival closed its doors. At the moment, the organisers have a special offer for those who would like to attend the amazing 6-day party in the following year. Super Early Bird Passes can be purchased already for the low price of HUF 98,500 (EUR 249). Just for comparison, the 6-day pass cost HUF 154,000 (EUR 391.81) this year. Therefore, it would be a shame to miss such a deal, right? If you are under the age of 21, the pass only costs HUF 78,500 (EUR 199).

 

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Serious crime committed by foreigners at Budapest festival

Serious crime committed by foreigners at Budapest festival

Two British nationals arrested for drug dealing at Budapest festival.

Police have arrested two British nationals at a music festival in Budapest on suspicion of drug dealing, the Budapest prosecutor’s office said on Thursday.

Police observed the two men, aged 31 and 24, selling drugs to another man on the evening of Aug 8, the prosecutor’s office told MTI. They witnessed the older of the two suspects returning from a stage to a tent that was being guarded by the other suspect and handing a packet containing a suspicious substance to the third man in exchange for cash. Meanwhile, the suspect guarding the tent took out another packet from which he poured a powdery substance into his hand before inhaling it through his nose.

budapest festival beer week beer
Photo: Facebook/BPBW – Budapest Beer Week

The two men were then placed under arrest by police. A search of their clothing and tent yielded more powdery substances, pills which were later found to be amphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy, and cash.

Police did not share which festival it was, but hvg.hu asked the organisers and the public prosecutor’s office whether it was Sziget Festival or not. They have not received an official answer yet.

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Featured image: illustration, Dutch police officers helped their Hungarian colleagues at Sziget Festival. Source: MTI

Prize-winning savoury can be tasted at Buda Castle festival

Prize-winning savoury can be tasted at Buda Castle festival

The culinary curious will have a chance to taste a savoury which has won this year’s bread competition organised as part of events celebrating King St Stephen, the founder of the Hungarian state, at a food fair between Aug 18 and 20, the PR agency of the event said on Wednesday.

“The mild taste of a French croissant, home-made sheep curd, ham and red onion are in perfect harmony…” András Tanács, its creator, said. “Coloured with Szeged paprika, the croissant has a unique texture, appearance and an excellent flavour,” he said.

The savoury dubbed “shepherd’s’ breakfast” can be tasted at the Street of Hungarian Flavours in the Buda Castle.

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Sziget Festival: Police arrest 10 festival-goers for suspected substance abuse

Here are the top festivals in 2024 in Hungary - Sziget Festival

Police arrested 3 people on suspicion of drug trafficking at the Sziget festival, and 7 for possession and substance abuse, the official police.hu website said on Tuesday.

Police take action at Sziget Festival

Police have seized 150 pills, 156g dust, 50g crystal and other substances, the statement said.

Police have also arrested seven people for vandalism and four for theft. They ensured medical assistance for 10 people and recovered two vagrant children, the statement said.

During the festival held between August 7-12, authorities were monitoring road and water traffic, as well as taxis in the area, the statement said. Besides Hungarian policemen and security personnel, two Dutch uniformed officers also patrolled the festivals, it said.

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Is Sziget Festival ‘starting a new chapter’?

Sziget Festival flag party

Sziget Festival, concluding its 30th festival, is starting a new chapter, Tamás Kádár, the event’s chief executive, said on Tuesday, noting a recent announcement that US private equity fund KKR is purchasing Superstruct Entertainment, the company behind various European music festivals.

Sziget Festival 2024 comes to an end

Kádár said the final day of the Sziget Festival on Monday was essentially sold out, with the concert of Skrillex and Fred Again… on the main stage, and a total of 400,000 festival-goers turned up this year.

He noted an increase in passes sold in advance at a discount, adding that demand by Hungarians had also grown. “So we’re repeating this promotion … for the 2025 festival starting on Thursday,” he said.

The programme has adapted to the average age of festival-goers, he said, which had got younger in the past ten years.

Whereas Kylie Minogue and Liam Gallagher attracted a somewhat older audience, the biggest stars included Stormzy, Bebe Rexha, Janelle Monae, Sam Smith and Raye, Kadar noted, adding that the programme was diverse, with, for example, Fontaines D.C. playing on the Revolut Stage.

Kádár also said Sziget was endeavouring to promote up-and-coming Hungarian performers as well as established stars, mentioning Azahriah and Beton.Hofi, who also played on the main stage this year.

Besides the music and other offerings, he noted improved facilities and catering units, including blocks of flushing toilets, digital information boards and a greater number of drinking fountains.

Kádár said the bridge leading to the island was in need of renovation, and responsibility for this was down to City Hall, which, he added, had reneged on a promise to revamp the bridge and accompanying road infrastructure.

Sziget Festival flag party
Photo: MTI/Balogh Zoltán

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Kurultaj Tribal Assembly attended by 27 nations opened today in Hungary – PHOTOS

Kurultaj opened today

This year’s Kurultaj, a tribal assembly of Hun-Turkic peoples, opened in Parliament on Friday, with representatives of 27 nations attending.

Sándor Lezsák, parliament’s deputy speaker, said the event was “a great, European festivity representing and renewing the millenia-old popular diplomacy of the east”.

“Kurultaj does not have a past only but a vision for the future; it has long been a joint holiday for young supporters of the tradition and of young families,” Lezsák said. “A sense of kinship is a shared national currency that will also promote economic, social, cultural, and sports ties, too,” he added.

Kurultaj opened today in the Parliament
Photo: MTI

Kubanychbek Omuraliev, the general secretary of the Organisation of Turkic States highlighted Kurultaj as an opportunity for Hun-Turkic peoples to celebrate a shared past and traditions as well as to promote economic and cultural relations.

Bugac Hungary travel tourism
facebook.com/pg/kurultaj

He noted that Hungary had observer status in the OTS and said Hungary’s EU presidency could “get the Turkic world to Europe”.

Further programmes of the event will be held at Bugac, in south-eastern Hungary, until Sunday.

HERE is the event’s official Facebook page.

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  • Accident at Sziget Festival: ambulance rushed to nearby hospital

Accident at Sziget Festival: ambulance rushed to nearby hospital

Sziget Festival Budapest

An artist suffered an accident at the Sziget Festival’s Cirque du Sziget. An ambulance was called, which took him to a Budapest hospital.

The festival organisers told Telex that an ambulance car arrived in 10 minutes, providing professional help for the artist in trouble. They added that the artist felt better, and his group decided to hold their next performance despite the accident.

Interestingly, a similar accident happened two years ago at Sziget in the same circus tent. Then, the artist stood on a crane, which caught his leg, and he fell down.

Cirque du Sziget has 1,000 seats, hosting open-air and indoor shows.

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Kaposfest with world-famous soloists and concerts begins on 12 August

Kaposfest with world-famous soloists and concerts begins on 12 August

Masterclasses by world-famous soloists and concerts will be on the programme of Kaposfest, an annual festival of classical music held in Kaposvár, in south-western Hungary, between August 12 and 16, the organisers said on Tuesday.

The opening night features cellist István Várdai and organist Szabolcs Szamosi. Further concerts will be held at six venues, accompanied by performances and panel discussions, film screenings, lectures and guided exhibitions.

Celebrated performers from abroad include violinists Alexandra Conunova and Kirill Troussov, pianists Lucas Debargue, Edith Pena, and Alexei Volodin, as well as viola player Razvan Popovici.

Photo: FB/Kaposfest

Among noted Hungarian performers will be violist Mate Szucs, pianist Zoltan Fejervari, violinists Kristáf Baráti and Júlia Pusker, harpist Anasztazia Razvaljajeva, and cellist Péter Somodari.

Further highlights of the festival will be a special concert by the Liszt Ferenc Chamber Orchestra, an open-air performance by Lajos Sárközy and his Gypsy band, and another by the Budapest Jazz Orchestra.

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