festival

New ranking: Hungarian Sziget Festival is the world’s best in 2024!

Sziget Festival Budapest

This year, the Sziget Festival will be held on Hajógyári Island from 7th to 12th August and has been named the best festival in the world for 2024, according to a new list.

Slingo recently compiled a list of the 50 most prominent music festivals worldwide, evaluating various factors such as ticket cost, daily capacity and the number of artists and stages. According to the list, Budapest’s Sziget Festival has earned the top spot for 2024, as reported Index.

festival
Source: FB/Sziget Festival

Sziget is a close runner-up to Green Man in terms of the number of artists, with both festivals hosting over 1,000 performers. When it comes to stages, Tomorrowland will have 16 stages for visitors this year, whereas Sziget boasts 60 stages, the highest number in the world. Sziget is not the longest festival on the list, as Dekmantel in the Netherlands spans 9 days. However, Sziget ranks third with 6 days of entertainment featuring some of the world’s best artists.

Sziget received an 8.5 rating in the ranking, with over 1,000 performers. The Budapest event, held on Hajógyári Island, can accommodate 90,000 people. While there are larger capacity events, such as Download in the UK, that festival did not make the top 10. The list also includes two of the world’s most popular festivals: Untold in Cluj and Tomorrowland in Boom, Belgium.

Sziget Festival to feature new and recurring artists, both Hungarian and international

Sziget Festival scandals
Photo: FB/Sziget Festival

The Main Stage at this year’s Sziget will feature Hungarian headliners Azahriah, Beton.Hofi, and the Margaret Island group, while several other stages will showcase hundreds of other Hungarian acts alongside international superstars such as Kylie Minogue, Halsey, and Stormzy.

In addition to musicians, there will be plenty of dancing, a circus and a walking street theatre. “First up is Azahriah, who is the first local act in a long time to have a spot in the pre-headliner slot. The musician, who recently made concert history, will now try to conquer Sziget’s Big Stage audience of up to 60,000–70,000 with a special show that will also be a novelty for Puskás Arena’s audience,” said Tamás Kádár, the festival’s main organiser, to Index, referring to the fact that the young Hungarian artist recently played three sold-out shows at the Budapest stadium.

The organisers of the 31st Sziget promise an unforgettable experience this year. While the event faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the past two years, it is returning to its former glory, as we previously reported.

Read also:

Here’s what you can expect from this year’s festival season in Hungary: prices, line-ups, and more

Hungary’s popular Sziget Festival 2024 announces major headliner – Read here

Hungarian musicians at Sziget Main Stage include Azahriah, Beton.Hofi, Margaret Island

azariah sziget

The Main Stage at this year’s Sziget Festival will feature Hungarian headliners Azahriah, Beton.Hofi and the Margaret Island group, while several other stages will showcase hundreds of other Hungarian acts between August 7 and 12, the organisers said on Tuesday.

They said in a statement that the Main Stage will allow Hungarian musicians to use the event as a springboard to enter the international scene.

Azahriah, who has recently filled the Budapest Puskás Arena three times on three consecutive days, is slated to draw an audience of up to 70,000.

Beton.Hofi will perform a show with the world renowned Rajko Gypsy Orchestra and Margaret Island celebrating its 10th birthday will put on a multidisciplinary act with guest dancers of Szeged Contemporary Ballet.

Other Hungarian acts of various genres will perform at venues including the Revolut Stage, The Buzz, BOLT Party Arena, Colosseum, dropYard, Global Village, the Petofi Stage, Magic Mirror, Cirque du Sziget, Theatre, Dance Corner and ArtGarden.

Sziget last year attracted some 420,000 visitors.

As we wrote earlier, the organisers aim to bring the biggest names to the festival each year. Let’s dive into what Sziget 2024 has in store for us.

  • read also: Here are the top festivals in 2024 in Hungary – PHOTOS

Hungarian Expert Joins the Board of the European Festivals Association

Natália Oszkó-Jakab, co-chair of the Hungarian Tourism Program Foundation and head of the Valley of Arts Festival, has been elected to the Board of the European Festivals Association, alongside the directors of the Ravenna and Edinburgh Festivals. This will enable the representation of the interests not only of Hungary, but also of the Central and Eastern European region in one of the most important professional organizations.

The Hungarian Tourism Program Foundation (MTPA) was established three years ago with the aim of creating a European-level ecosystem in the Hungarian events sector, bringing together organizers and service providers of various types of events (cultural, sport, tourism, business). The organization is already representing Hungary at the international level, having become a member of the European Festivals Association’s EFFEA Hub and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Culture & Creativity.

Hungarian Expert Joins the Board of the European Festivals Association
Natália Oszkó-Jakab. Photo: Mitte Communications

The European Festivals Association was founded in 1952, by Denis de Rougemont and Igor Markevitch in Geneva. It is the main European platform for arts festivals and its leaders are regularly consulted by the European Commissioner for culture and the creative industries. “The challenges facing the European festival market, including the Hungarian one, call for joint action and solidarity. However, this is the first time since 1952 that there is a Hungarian member of the board, so my main objective is to represent the region and Hungary, so that our views are heard at the European level.

Government tax cuts will help the sector develop?

I believe in the power of cooperation and alliances and the need to share knowledge on an equal footing. From now on, I will have the opportunity to present not only the region’s difficulties but also its strengths in the most important forums, which I am confident will stimulate the domestic events market. I will strive to create a more flexible, diverse, and culturally vibrant sustainable festival sector” – the statement quoted Natália Oszkó-Jakab.

Natália Oszkó-Jakab European Festivals Association
Photo: FB/European Festivals Association

To make the Hungarian events market internationally competitive, tax cuts are also being fought for at the government level, and professional materials and sector impact studies are being produced. MTPA’s Visibility program helps to increase the international visibility of Hungarian operators, providing opportunities for Hungarian event professionals to present themselves abroad, thereby supporting the development of partnerships and business opportunities.

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Here’s what you can expect from this year’s festival season in Hungary: prices, line-ups, and more

Sziget Festival

As summer approaches, it is always important for festival goers to know what they can expect from Hungarian festivals price-wise. In 2023, these expanses, including festival passes, prices of food and accommodation skyrocketed due to inflation. This year, the increase was less radical, however, these events are still expensive to Hungarians whose salaries are way under the average EU wages.

Are festivals getting more expensive?

In recent years, festival prices have been increasing progressively due to inflation. It is difficult to compare Hungarian festivals as they differ in many aspects, for example in size, location or duration. Compared to 2022, last year’s price increase rate concerning festivals was between 30% and 60%, only Strand Fesztivál kept its price, but the festival got a day shorter. This year, however, the price increase is not as drastic. According to Világgazdaság, the average increase rate is only 13,5% concerning festival passes, daily tickets cost 5,2% more.

Sziget Festival

Sziget Festival Budapest
Photo: FB/Sziget

The most expensive Hungarian festival is still Sziget. For a 6-day pass, visitors have to pay HUF 132,900 (EUR 371.2), less than last year, which cost HUF 146,000 (EUR 378). According to the festival’s main organiser Tamás Kádár, the festival must face inflation every year as the performers are paid in euros or dollars. However, they offer different reductions regularly, for example, Hungarian students can purchase the festival pass for HUF 108,900 (EUR 281.9) at the moment. This year, the festival also offers U21 passes for those under 21, for a discounted price. Daily passes range from HUF 32,900 (EUR 85) to HUF 38,500 (EUR 100), based on the line-up of the day.

The main acts include Fred again, Halsey, Kylie Minogue, Sam Smith and Skrillex. The festival takes place between 7-12 August.

Művészetek Völgye, SopronFest, Bánkitó Festival

Source: depositphotos.com

The longest festival in the country is Művészetek Völgye (Valley of Arts), which takes place in Veszprém County, and is a 10-day long art festival. Surprisingly, last year, the festival pass cost only HUF 45,000 (EUR 116.5), but this year, the price almost doubled. Visitors who wish to stay for the entire duration of the festival currently need to pay HUF 80,000 (EUR 207.1). On the other hand, SopronFest, the shortest festival with only 3 days, decreased its prices from HUF 39,900 (EUR 103.3) to HUF 37,500 (EUR 97) this year. Bánkitó Festival‘s 4-day pass costs HUF 47,200 (EUR 122) currently, as opposed to HUF 37,500 (EUR 97) last year.

Szegedi Ifjúsági Napok (SZIN)

This year, more than 200 foreign and Hungarian performers will take the stage in Szeged’s biggest music festival, SZIN, between 28-31 August. According to Travelo, not only international stars like the Swedish pop star Zara Larsson or Armin van Buuren or Kamrad are included in the line-up. With Hungarian festival favourites, such as Azahriah, Analog Balaton or Bohemian Betyars, the festival also gives an opportunity to aspiring acts to perform.

The 4-day pass costs HUF 51,990 (EUR 134.6), compared to last year’s HUF 39,555 (EUR 102.3), but citizens of Szeged can get a discount on daily passes. For more information, visit the festival’s website HERE.

Read also:

World-known celebrities bring their wines to Hungary: try the drinks of Jon Bon Jovi, Sting, Brad Pitt!

avasi wine tour 2023 wines Hungarian wine

If you’re a fan of (Hungarian) wines, we’ve got just the perfect event for you this week! The programme of the XIIth Avasi Wine Tour (XII. Avasi Borangolás) will be further expanded this year: visitors will be able to taste the wines of real world stars in Miskolc between 16-19 May.

From Thursday, the 12th edition of the Avasi Wine Tour will feature 62 wineries at 80 venues in Miskolc. If you’re looking for music programmes, you will not be bored either: 18 concerts will be held on three stages, while street musicians will add to the atmosphere in the cellar rows and wine cellars, turizmus.com reports.

avasi wine tour 2023
Photo: borangolas.hu

The organisers have prepared a number of novelties this year: for example, wines from the wineries of famous people who have made their mark in film, music or sporting history will be brought to festival-goers.

World-known celebrities’ wines to Hungary

  • Andrés Iniesta, former FC Barcelona and Spanish national team star midfielder turned world and European champion will showcase his best wines;
  • Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s masterpieces come straight from the heart of the film world in California;
  • the wines of Sting, the British star of international pop music, come to us from Tuscany;
  • Hampton Water, the French winery that Jon Bon Jovi shares with his son Jesse, will also be showcased at the XIIth Avasi Wine Tour;
  • One of the defining voices of soul, r’n’b and pop, Mary J. Blige’s Sun Goddess label will also be on show at the festival;
  • Snoop Dogg’s own wine,
  • and special rosé champagnes from Chateau Miraval, the Brad Pitt brand, will also be on offer for those attending the event.

Wines from Hungary can be tasted as well

In addition to the wines of these world stars, a wide range of Hungarian wineries will also be represented at the Miskolc festival. What is more, it’s not just the wine list that is new to the festival, but also the music genres. Visitors who choose the bar pianists’ concerts late on a Friday evening will be treated to a real special experience, turizmus.com writes.

avasi wine tour 2023 2
Photo: borangolas.hu

In 2024, the Avasi Wine Tour will be extended to four days. The first two days after the professional day will be dedicated to the lively and bustling music and dance programmes, together with wine-tasting, while on the fourth day, festival-goers are invited to a picnic. The renovated Avasi Lookout (Avasi kilátó) and its surroundings will be a new venue.

All but one of the Avasi Wine Tasting events are free of charge. For the Áts Károly x Günzer Tamás wine tasting, advance ticket purchase is required.

avasi wine tour 2022
Photo: borangolas.hu

Read also:

Valley of Arts festival in Hungary to feature nearly 3,000 events

valley of arts művészetek völgye 2022

The 33rd Valley of Arts (Művészetek Völgye) festival in western Hungary will feature a record number of events, almost 3,000 in all, between 19 and 28 July, the organisers said on Thursday.

valley of arts művészetek völgye 2022
Source: Facebook/Művészetek Völgye

Valley of Arts festival 2024

The programme including 2,972 music, literature, theatre and dance performances, as well as family and other events at 40 venues will be held in the villages of Kapolcs, Vigántpetend and Taliándörögd, festival director Natália Oszkó-Jakab told a press conference.

Several museums will be represented at this year’s festival with a greater focus on contemporary art, she said.

Tibor Navracsics, the minister of public administration and regional development, said that over the years the Valley of Arts had become a part of the region’s economy, and by strengthening local communities, the entire region, its economy and the whole of Hungarian culture were enriched.

Maintaining the momentum gained from last year’s Veszprém-Balaton 2023 European Capital of Culture series, the aim was to develop a region of creative activities in which the Valley of Arts festival played an important role, he added.

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From Europe-day celebrations to new exhibitions: here are some of the best programs in Budapest to attend in May

Gourmet Festival Budapest hungary

Europe-day, concerts, cultural and culinary festivals, new exhibitions: the last month of spring brings colourful programs to Budapest, for kids and grown-ups as well. Here are a few of them that are worth checking out.

Corvin Beer Festival

The Corvin Sörfesztivál (Corvin Beer Festival) will celebrate its 10th birthday this year with a 5-day festival. The festival takes place between 8 to 12 May in Corvin Sétány. More than 30 beer manufacturers will be present, including Csíki sör, MONYO Brewing, Etyeki Sörmanufaktúra, but you can also taste some of Hungary’s best cheese and sauces.

Floralia – Roman spring celebration

Between 10 and 12 May, the Aquincum Museum and Archeological Park will celebrate spring with a festival for the 33rd time. As promised, the park will be full of flowers and Roman citizens wearing togas, celebrating the goddess of spring, Flora. Programs include guided tours, both in Hungarian and English, and workshops. Visitors can try what it’s like to live in ancient Rome, they can learn how to make flower crowns, experience Roman school, or compete in the Olympic games.

Europe-day celebration

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Hungary being a part of the European Union with a free festival in the 5th district, near Kossuth Square. Taking place on 12 May in Szabadság Square, there’s something for everybody: there are programs for children, including quizes, games, a puppet show, and more. Concerts for children will start at 10:30 AM, and later in the afternoon, Hungarian bands including Szabó Balázs Bandája and Carson Coma will play an acoustic set. There’s also a 20-km running race celebrating the anniversary.

Jazzy Festival

Hungary to launch new jazz radio station this week
Photo: depositphotos.com

Enjoy jazz music and a glass of wine at a 4-day festival between 17 and 20 May at MomKult. Food trucks and more than 40 wine shops will be represented at the festival as well. Concerts include Matt Bianco, Electro Deluxe, Los Orangutanes, and many more. You can read more about Jazzy Festival here.

Gourmet Festival – MBH Bank

Gourmet Festival Budapest hungary
Gourmet Festival, Budapest, Hungary. Source: Gourmet Festival

Taste the Hungarian gastronomic landscape at Millenáris between 24-26 May. This year, Gourmet will focus on female energy and the female perspective. With more than a hundred exhibitors, excellent chefs, pastry chefs, bakers and manufacturers will be present at the country’s biggest gastronomy festival. For more information, visit the festival’s website.

Exhibitions in Budapest

The world of Banksy

banksy exhibition
Photo: MTI/EPA-AAP/Steven Saphore

After Milan, Paris, Brussels and Lisbon, the contreversial artist’s exhibition is coming to Budapest from 3 May. The exhibition includes street art, graffities, photos and prints from the artist, whose work usually revolves around the topics of war, imperialism, peace, individualism, capitalism, greed, consumerism and hypocrisy. More information and tickets here.

Kertész, Moly-Nagy, Capa – Photo exhibition

Photo exhibition Museum of Fine Arts Budapest
Photo: MTI

The exhibition in the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest is the first comprehensive presentation of the work of Hungarian  photographers who emigrated to America, including André Kertész, László Moholy-Nagy, Robert Capa and György Kepes. The exhibition examines the impact of Hungarian-born artists, and their journey from Hungary throughout Berlin and Paris to New York, Chicago, and Hollywood.

Divas & Icons

The new temporary exhibition takes place in the House of Hungarian Music, and showcases the power of divas like Rihanna, Björk, Cher, Marilyn Monroe, Whitney Huston, Beyoncé, and many more. The exhibition was originally organised by the Victoria and Albert Museum of London, but it travels to several museums around the world. Apart from exhibiting the incredible costumes worn by the icons, it gives an insight into the history of great divas from the stars of the opera and silent films to today’s world stars.

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Sensational: Budapest home to Europe’s 3rd best beer festival!

budapest festival beer week beer

The quality of craft beer in Hungary is high – and nothing shows this better than the fact that Budapest Beer Week was voted the 3rd best craft beer festival in Europe. This year’s festival in the capital will run from 20 May to 26 May.

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

According to Világgazdaság, the recognition recently came from Portugal, where Budapest Beer Week was voted the 3rd best craft beer festival in Europe, after Belgium’s Billie’s Craft Beer Festival and Denmark’s Mikkeller Beer Celebration Copenhagen.

With this, the Budapest event, which has been held since 2018, has overtaken legendary events with a long history, such as the four-day Portuguese Artbeerfest Caminha and the Italian Arrogant Sour Festival.

BPBW Budapest Beer Week 2024 will run from 20 May to 26 May. The main tasting days of the BPBW 2024 will take place on 24 and 25 May in the Dürer Kert, with the free-to-attend encore day on Sunday 26 May.

Europe’s best craft beer festivals

beer week budapest craft beer
Photo: facebook.com/budapestbeerweek
  1. Billie’s Craft Beer Festival
  2. Mikkeller Beer Celebration Copenhagen
  3. Budapest Beer Week
  4. Artbeerfest Caminha
  5. Arrogant Sour Festival

Read also:

Hungary’s popular Sziget Festival 2024 announces major headliner

Sziget Festival

Sziget Festival is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beloved and iconic music festivals. The annual festival festival attracts music lovers, artists, and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe. The organisers aim to bring the biggest names to the festival each year. Let’s dive into what Sziget 2024 has in store for us.

Sziget Festival’s big comeback

Világgazdaság writes that the organisers of the 31st Sziget Festival promise an unforgettable time this year. While the festival suffered the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic in the previous two years, it is returning to its glory. Music lovers and party animals are invited to an authentic Sziget experience this year between the 7th and 12th of August.

Sziget festival Budapest food
Photo: FB/Sziget

2024 line-up scoop

As we have reported HERE, most of the headliners for this year’s Sziget Festival have already been announced. At a press conference, the organisers dropped the bombshell: on Wednesday, the sensational Australian singer-songwriter, Kylie Minogue, will grace the Main Stage. For the full lowdown, head over to the festival’s official website.

Ticket prices

After a stint of lockdown blues, the festival regained its crown in 2023. The buzz around this year’s Sziget is even more electrifying. Tamás Kádár, Sziget’s chief organiser, said that during the Early Bird period, most 6-day passes were sold to Hungarian customers. In addition, he also mentioned the major hype about this year’s festival. Currently, prices for a full festival pass start from EUR 279, with a 3-day pass going for EUR 239, while daily tickets range from EUR 75.

What’s fresh for 2024?

Tamás Kádár added that last year’s upgrades, such as replacing mobile toilets with a series of English toilets for guest convenience, will continue at this year’s Sziget Festival. Additionally, new transport enhancements are planned to address the issue of congestion experienced by large crowds trying to leave the festival via the K and H bridges. To mitigate this, a smart signage system will be introduced to direct guests to the appropriate exits, and a regular shuttle service will be established to transport attendees from the festival to the city centre, offering an alternative to searching for taxis on Szentendrei Avenue.

Sky-high food prices

According to Tamás Kádár, last year’s budget food concept will be maintained this year. Thus, every restaurant at the festival is obligated to offer a main course for the fair price of HUF 2,500 (EUR 6.4). Last year, numerous restaurateurs tried to find a loophole by offering French fries with a dollop of sauce.

But fear not, the organisers are on the case. Restaurants vying for a spot must submit their menu in advance for approval. The festival’s main organiser added that they are trying to keep drink prices at bay, more or less at the same level as last year, which means they are not following inflation in this area.

Read also:

Don’t miss out on these 5 amazing Hungarian festivals at Lake Balaton this summer!

Strand Festival Hungarian festivals

This year, MOL Nagyon Balaton continues its tradition of showcasing the Balaton region’s most engaging events, a role it has played for twelve years. The lineup for 2024 includes several noteworthy happenings. Here are the five most exciting Hungarian festivals at Lake Balaton this summer!

ZamJam

As Lelépő writes, ZamJam, a revitalised, admission-free festival, will take place from 31 May to 2 June in Zamárdi. Spanning three days and multiple venues, the festival will showcase performances by famous Hungarian artists and feature a wide array of jazz concerts.

In addition to musical entertainment, the festival includes plenty of programmes for children, sports activities, art exhibitions, a garden cinema, a Trabant tour, a bustling market, and a cosy literary terrace. Festival-goers are encouraged to enjoy a swim in Lake Balaton during the event and to relish the seasonal opening of local ice cream parlours and lakeside terraces. The season will be inaugurated with a spectacular fireworks display in Tihany.

STRAND Festival

The STRAND Festival, a highlight of the Lake Balaton cultural calendar, will take place from 22 to 24 August. This year’s lineup includes notable Hungarian artists such as Azahriah, the Bagossy Brothers Company, Majka, Dzsúdló, and Beton.Hofi, alongside international names like Alok, Elderbrook, and Chase & Status.

STRAND is not just about great music; it also features a unique circus experience, allowing festival-goers to delve into the world of circus performers. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Tihany, the festival’s location on the lakefront makes it one of the most visually stunning venues in Hungary.

Strand Festival Hungarian festivals
Source: Facebook / Strand Fesztivál Official
Strand Festival Zamárdi
Photo: Facebook.com/StrandFesztival

Tábor Festival

Tábor Festival provides a unique glimpse into the Hungarian rock scene. Whether you are a lover of rock music or just a curious soul, this Hungarian festival will provide you with an unforgettable memory. The festival awaits visitors between the 28th and the 31st of August in Alsóörs. Over 40 foreign and local artists will perform, including world stars such as Stratovarius, The Toy Dolls and Korpiklaani.

Balaton Piknik

The Balaton Piknik is a delightful event in the scene of Hungarian festivals. It is part of the MOL Nagyon Balaton travelling festival series. Balaton Piknik will be hosted in 2024 at the scenic Tihany Market Place between the 14th and 16th of June. This magical town is famed for its picturesque peninsula, historic abbey, lavender fields, and charming streets.

Attendees will explore Tihany’s culinary and cultural spots during the day, and by night, enjoy markets, pop-up art exhibitions, and tastings from top regional restaurants and winemakers. The evenings of the Hungarian festival will feature live music and DJ sets, creating a festive atmosphere by the lakeside.

Wine festival in the heart of Lake Balaton

The so-called Szent György-hegy HAJNALIG Hungarian festival takes place on the first Saturday of June. The picturesque hills of the Balaton Highlands come alive as traditionally private wine cellars open to the public for a day filled with picnics, music, and good wine.

This year, aligning with the Chinese Year of the Dragon, the event features a dragon theme, complete with bonfires and volcanic wines. Expect kites soaring above Szent György Hill, adding a whimsical touch to an enchanting day that celebrates slowing down and enjoying the sunset. While other Hungarian festivals might be all about loud music, sometimes it is pleasant to relax for a bit.

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UNCHAIN Festival launches startups tournament to propel tech innovation

unchain festival romania

Oradea, 19-20 June 2024: UNCHAIN Fintech Festival, the renowned global financial services and innovation festival, proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated Fintech Startups Tournament. Set within the vibrant atmosphere of Oradea’s historic fortress, UNCHAIN serves as a dynamic hub for CEE’s burgeoning growth market and the forefront of global tech development. In this sociable and enjoyable environment, UNCHAIN fosters meaningful connections and pushes the boundaries of financial innovation.

The Prestigious CEE Fintech Oscars: Recognizing Excellence in Innovation

unchain fintech festival 2023
Unchain Fintech Festival 2023 in Oradea, Romania.

The Startups Tournament, a key component of the UNCHAIN Festival, is designed to spotlight the most promising tech startups. Founders across the CEE are invited to showcase their projects and vie for recognition, support, and investment in an atmosphere buzzing with creativity and collaboration.

As a global centre of tech development and a hub for innovation, UNCHAIN Festival is the perfect platform for startups to showcase their innovative solutions and connect with industry leaders, investors, and enthusiasts,” said Alexandra Pollack, CEO & Co-founder of UNCHAIN Festival. “We’re excited to provide startups with an opportunity to shine on stage and accelerate their growth in this dynamic ecosystem.

The Startups Tournament invites early-stage startups with tech solutions that demonstrate significant potential for impact and scalability. Selected finalists will have the chance to pitch their projects live to a distinguished panel of judges comprising industry experts, investors, and thought leaders.

In addition to exposure and networking opportunities, participants will compete for a range of prizes, including mentorship from industry veterans, access to investor networks, and complimentary exhibition space at future UNCHAIN events.

Welcoming back the winners of previous editions

unchain fintech festival 2022
Source: Facebook/Unchain Fintech Festival

We were honoured to be the winners of the first edition, and I believe that UNCHAIN had an incredible energy. Everyone was attending the festival in Oradea for the first time and felt the responsibility of shaping something outstanding, building the DNA of the festival. Some great investment conversations came out from my time in Oradea, and fintech explorations with the likes of Visa. Such ecosystems in CEE are hugely needed.”, Maria Tanjala, FilmChain Co-founder, the winner of the 1st UNCHAIN Startups Tournament.

By being on stage a lot of investors and banks come to talk to us. We had great conversations and that was extremely valuable. We’ve learnt a lot, which added a lot of value to who we are and how we’ve grown. What I love about UNCHAIN it’s that it is not a 4000 people event, it’s a very curated event of very important people from the industry. It’s almost like a handpicked selection on who is who in the region for the fintech vertical and you don’t have many events like this which create that impact.”, Rohit Bhosale, Synapze CEO`s, the winner of the 2nd UNCHAIN Startups Tournament. 

Application Deadline: May 31st – Don’t Miss Out!

Entrepreneurs eager to participate in the competition are encouraged to submit their applications online through the official UNCHAIN Festival website >> https://unchainfestival.com/startups/. Registrations are available until May 31st, but act swiftly, as applications are reviewed and chosen following each submission.

UNCHAIN Festival, renowned for its engaging panels, insightful keynotes, and vibrant networking opportunities, will take place on 19-20 June 2024 at Oradea’s fortress, Romania. For more information about the Startups Tournament and the UNCHAIN Festival, including ticketing and sponsorship opportunities, visit the event website >> www.unchainfestival.com

UNCHAIN on CEE tour: explore innovation across the region

unchain startups tournament
Unchain Startups Tournament

Preceding the summer festival, a series of online events, the Demo Days, will bring an even closer spotlight on the disrupting potential the region has to uncover. 

The Demo Days will serve as a precursor to the main event, offering a platform for startups and innovators to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and technologies to a global audience. Through engaging presentations, live demonstrations, and interactive Q&A sessions, participants will have the opportunity to highlight the transformative impact of their projects and gain valuable feedback from industry experts and potential investors.

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PHOTOS: Popular festival location at Lake Balaton opens soon!

plázs siófok festival lake balaton

One of Lake Balaton’s largest festivals: with a renovated main stage and 35 concerts over 17 weekends, this year’s Plázs in Siófok will open its season between 17 and 20 May.

The opening weekend of Pentecost is jointly organised by the municipality and the Plázs, with a cavalcade of family and leisure activities on the Great Beach (Nagystrand) and musical events on the technically and externally modernised stage of the Plázs, the organisers said in a press release.

They pointed out that after the daytime events and children’s shows, Blahalouisiana will give a free concert on Friday, Hooligans on Saturday and TNT on Sunday.

After the bands’ performances, on Saturday, there will be performances by local DJs in several venues, and on Sunday, Dj Dominique and the Fergeteg party will be waiting for the party-goers, they added.

One of Lake Balaton’s favourite festivals

They underscored that last year, the Plázs attracted a record number of visitors, around 315,000 people, and this year, with 35 concerts planned for 17 weekends, “there is a good chance of beating that”.

Besides big returning acts such as Azahriah, Majka, Magdi Rúzsa, Edda, Neoton, Dzsúdló, Krúbi, Tamás Horváth, Follow The Flow, BSW, Kowalsky meg a Vega, several other acts will debut on the big stage equipped with huge LED walls, reads the announcement.

Tickets and further information can be found HERE.

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Budapest Ritmo: Hungarian capital’s largest world music festival in April

Pesthy Márton Budapest Ritmo

April awaits with the next dose of global beats and local talent: Budapest Ritmo lineup boasts Salif Keita, Gérald Toto, Gaye Su Akyol, resident faves Duckshell and a rare live cinema treat by Vincent Moon. Organized by Hangvető as part of Bartók Spring International Arts Week, Ritmo promises a 3-day feat of big names, musical discovery and a rich programme of films, conference and networking events. Full lineup, conference schedule and tickets all available online at budapestritmo.hu.

Expanding the bubble of cozy and familiar to new and radical, Budapest Ritmo brings the best of global beats from Mali, South Africa, the Balkans or France to the heart of Budapest. Seasoned world music aficionados will appreciate the meeting with one of the genre’s grand masters, Salif Keita, curious listeners will enjoy the mix of psych rock and Anatolian folk by Gaye Su Akyol and Puuluup’s experimental nu folk, rebel revellers will be transformed by BCUC’s bantu punk seance. The festival offers a select lineup sanctioned by KEXP and WOMEX, leaving ample room for surprise and discovery: Afro-chansons by Gérald Toto, Welsh triple-harp by Cerys Hafana, Jelena Popržan’s artsy viola stand-up and a virtuosic ethno-jazz standoff between Béla Ágoston and Teodosii Spassov, homegrown folk, psychedelic rock and ska-punk represent the range.

Budapest Ritmo is a multi-genre, multi-venue feat engaging all the senses, in Budapest’s lush locales: Akvárium Klub in the heart of the city hosts most gigs, but a free showcase event at legendary ruin pub Szimpla Kert kicks off festivities. An outdoor stage on Erzsébet tér will tempt passersby on Saturday, while the films will be screened at cult hub Toldi. Professionals will be pampered at the Hungarian House of Music, lending its beguiling interior to smooth networking sessions.

Budapest Ritmo: Music on film

Pesthy Márton Budapest Ritmo
Photo: Budapest Ritmo

Female singers, Roma music and the boundless power of music are the themes of Budapest Ritmo’s film program this year. The figures and unforgettable voices of Věra Bílá, Ida Kelarova, Omara Portoundo, Mónika Lakatos and Elis Regina emerge against a background of rural Roma communities in Central Europe, the Afro-Cuban music scene or a studio in L.A. in the seventies. A unique live cinema session by Vincent Moon accompanies Dalinda’s folk a cappella concert, in Budapest Ritmo’s 2024 production. Ritmo films of past years: Again and Again by Ábel Regős and Veronika Szász, and Mordai by Gábor Reisz and Bálint Szimler will also be screened.

Connection, connection, connection

As returning Ritmo guests know well, connecting minds, paths and genres is one of the festival’s fortes. In Budapest you can meet the movers and shakers of the scene such as representatives of dozens of festivals such as EXIT, Womex, Tallinn Music Week or of the best record labels and strike new collabs with likeminded professionals. We look at one of Hangvető’s major international projects MOST, successfully pulling the Balkans and the rest of Europe closer via a personal network united by the love of music. Delegates can present their projects at the pitching sessions, talk shop at speed meetings and connect at the world cafe – all hosted by the spacious, state-of-the-art Hungarian House of Music.

Read also:

New world-famous names announced for 2024 Sziget Festival

Sziget Festival

Liam Gallagher, Halsey, Skrillex, Janelle Monae, Raye and Tom Odell are among the nearly fifty acts announced on Wednesday to perform at the Sziget Festival taking place in Budapest from August 7 to 12.

Former Oasis singer Liam Gallagher will focus on the group’s debut album Definitely Maybe, a seminal 1990s record published thirty years ago, the event’s chief executive, Tamas Kadar, said in a statement.

Other headliners performing on the main stage will include the US singer Halsey, a three-time Billboard Music Awards recipient and three-time Grammy award

Sziget Festival Budapest (2)
Photo: facebook.com/SzigetFestival

nominee, and US electronic dance music artist Skrillex, the winner of nine Grammy awards.

 

The US pop’n’soul singer Janelle Monae and the British singer-songwriters Raye and Tom Odell will also be among the headliners this year.

The list of international performers to appear at other stages will include Marc Rebillet, Anfisa Letyago, Apashe with Brass Orchestra, Archie Hamilton, Ari Abdul, Camo and Krooked b2b Luude, Charlie Sparks, Colyn, Dyen, az Editors, Enrico Sangiuliano, Franc Moody, Goldband, Job Jobse, Kevin de Vries, KI/KI, Kiasmos, Lachesi, Len Faki, Loco Dice, LP Giobbi, Lucia Lu, Mannequin Pussy, MO, Modeselektor, Neil Frances, Nico Moreno, NTO, Rebuke, Sam Paganini, Sarah Story, Sven Vath, Teezo Touchdown, Tinlicker, Tkay Maidza, Venerus, Victoria and Whipped Cream.

Previously announced acts scheduled to appear at this year’s festival include Fred Again, Sam Smith, Stormzy, Martin Garrix, Louis Tomlinson and Big Thief.

Read also:

  • Here are the top festivals in 2024 in Hungary – PHOTOS and more in THIS article
  • Big names announced for 2024 Sziget Festival – Read more HERE

PHOTOS: Holi festival celebrated at Amrita Sher-Gil Indian Cultural Centre in Budapest

Amrita Sher-Gil Cultural Centre (ASCC), Embassy of India, Budapest, Hungary, celebrated the festival of colours, Holi, on March 22, 2023. The event witnessed a vibrant and diverse gathering, including India lovers in Hungary and members of the Indian community.

Holi, known as the festival of colours, is a significant and joyous occasion in Indian culture symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. The celebration at the Amrita Sher-Gil Cultural Centre was a reflection of the spirit of unity and cultural harmony.

Participants enjoyed traditional Indian music, dance performances, and the playful splashing of colours, marking the festive atmosphere of Holi. The event brought together people from various backgrounds, fostering friendship and camaraderie among attendees.

Photo: ASCC

Welcoming the guests, Director of ASCC, Dr. Mukesh Kumar Srivastava said, we are delighted to host this colourful celebration of Holi. Speaking on the importance of Holi festival, he said, “Holi is a festival that transcends boundaries and brings people closer. As we immerse ourselves in the vibrant colours of Holi, let us also remember the values it represents – love, friendship, and inclusivity. Let this festival strengthen the bonds of friendship and understanding between our nations and communities.”

The event also featured traditional Indian delicacies and refreshments, adding to the festive ambience and providing a taste of Indian culture to the attendees.

Photo: ASCC

Amrita Sher-Gil Cultural Centre aims to promote cultural exchanges and strengthen ties between India and Hungary through various cultural events and initiatives.

Read also:

  • Buda Castle hosts luxurious Indian wedding – PHOTOS and more in THIS article
  • International Women’s Day celebrated with Cultural Extravaganza at the Embassy of India in Budapest – PHOTOS and more HERE

Budapest in green: St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Hungary – Photos, videos

St Patrick's Day celebrations in Budapest, Hungary - 2024. Photo: Daily News Hungary

St. Patrick’s Day has become a cherished tradition celebrated by both the Irish community and the Friends of Ireland in Hungary. While much of the event centred around Szabadság Square, a lively parade through the city centre remains a permanent feature of the festivities. 

Organised by the Irish-Hungarian Business Circle and the Embassy of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day holds a special place in the annual calendar of events in the Hungarian capital. Each year, people from Ireland, Hungary and beyond come together to celebrate this iconic Irish holiday.

Kicking off at noon on 17th March, the festivities started with an array of activities including face painting, a spirited Gaelic football match, captivating concerts and vibrant dance performances. Amidst the excitement, attendees had the chance to relish a pint of Guinness or Kilkenny beer, accompanied by a hearty meat pie.

 

The march started shortly after 2 p.m., winding its way through the streets from Szabadság Square to Kossuth Square, passing by notable landmarks such as the MTA headquarters and the Basilica, before returning to Szabadság Square.

Daily News Hungary correspondents were also present to capture the essence of the parade:

Here is our live coverage of the parade

Our photo gallery from last year: St Patrick’s Day celebrated in Budapest – PHOTOS, VIDEO

Góbéfest: Celebrate Transylvania and Hungary in Manchester in June!

góbéfest manchester

Góbéfest, Manchester’s original urban folk music and dance festival with strong Central and Eastern European leanings, is back!

Established in 2017, Góbéfest has its roots firmly in Transylvania and Hungary, but over the years has expanded its reach to cherry pick some of the finest performing artists from around the Carpathian Basin and beyond.

Returning to Cathedral Gardens from Friday 21-Sunday 23 June 2024, the festival will for the first time be selling day or weekend tickets for the Friday and Saturday. Sunday – which has become known as Dance Day – will remain free.

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 flat breads known as lángos and Transylvanian barbecued chimney cakes.

Alongside craft beer, there will also be a Hungarian wine stall and a palinka (Hungarian fruit brandy) bar. Free activities in the family tent include music and dance workshops, storytelling and crafts.

Friday’s headliner, Parno Graszt has been described as ‘the source of gypsy music’ and will be performing exclusively at Góbéfest in what will be the band’s first UK appearance in a decade.

Saturday’s dual headliners are klezmer and Balkan music supremos She’Koyokh and Manchester’s own Rioghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet.

On Saturday 22 June 2024, Márta Sebestyén, Judit Andrejszki & Béla Szerényi Jr. will be in concert at Hallé St Michael’s as a Góbéfest special event.

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

Early bird tickets for Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June are £25 (£12.50 child over 5) until the end of March. After that, tickets are £35 (£17.50 child over 5). Family tickets are also available for £60 (early bird) and £80. Sunday 23 June is free entry all day. Tickets at gobefest.com/tickets.

Important information about this year’s Góbéfest:

góbéfest manchester
Source: Góbéfest

Where? Cathedral Gardens, Manchester M4 3BG

When? Friday 21 – Sunday 23 June 2024

Website: www.gobefest.com

Tickets: Friday & Saturday £25 early bird tickets until the end of March

Sunday is FREE!

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SopronFest 2024: experience live music and great food at iconic Hungarian festival

fire tower tűztorony sopron

This year’s SopronFest will be held between 17-19 May, with warm-up events starting as early as 11 May. With vibrant cultural programmes in a beautiful historic town, in outdoor and indoor venues over an extended area in the city, the festival expects double the visitors it welcomed in 2023.

As Index reports, the festival is one of the longest in the country, with ten days of concerts, gastronomy events, live podcasts, and children’s entertainment.

From great music to exceptional food: what to expect from SopronFest

Starting on 12 May, festivities will kick off with the Don’t Stop The Queen tribute band. Lovers of jazz music will be able to enjoy the Budapest Ragtime Band and the Kollmann Gábor Quintet, while those who would like to immerse themselves in pop and rock music can get to know Hungarian artists like Bagossy Brothers Company, Dzsúdló, Majka, Beton. Hofi, Tankcsapda, Rúzsa Magdi, and perhaps the biggest star of the Hungarian music industry at the moment, Azahriah.

This year, SopronFest will also welcome international talents on stage. The German DJ Alle Farben will be sure to get the party going on 17 May, while the Dutch Kraak & Smaak trio will provide electronic beats on 19 May.

sopronfest concert sopron
Photo: sopronfest.hu

Besides music, the event also places great emphasis on providing a space for creators of contemporary fine art to share their works. On 12 May, a group exhibition will open in the Munkácsy Hall of the Liszt Center in the city. For those who seek culinary experiences: the festival also aims to let audiences meet well-known chefs and popular figures of Hungarian gastronomy at the most prestigious restaurants of Sopron.

Sopron Tűztorony Night
‘Tűztorony’ and a part of the old town at night
Photo: Országalbum / ROSSZQTYA

The first three days of events, designated as the Sopron Beer days, also await those who are looking to taste a good brew. “We are very happy to participate in SopronFest again this year. For the second time, this event allows us to enjoy the charm and culture of Sopron alongside our consumers, which we consider to be close to our heart,” said Katalin Perényi, Marketing Director of HEINEKEN Hungária.

The organisers emphasise that their goal is to create a festival where both the citizens of Sopron, and tourists from other cities can have a good time.

“Without exaggeration, SopronFest is a new holiday in our city. For 10 days, the streets, squares, restaurants, cafes and clubs will be filled with life,” commented Mayor Ciprián Farkas, chief patron of SopronFest.

Views in Sopron and its area

As we wrote earlier, Sopron sits on the Hungarian-Austrian border and is one of the oldest towns in the country. It is renowned for its beautiful historic landmarks, such as the iconic Fire Tower and the wonderful vineyards, and the fine cuisine of the region. In the city, the Park Forest provides an opportunity to trek on the Witch Fairytale Trail, or climb the 21-meter-tall Károly Lookout Tower, to gaze upon the city, Lake Fertő, and the snowy peaks of the Rax and Schneeberg mountains.

Fertőd castle Hungary
Photo: facebook.com/fertod.esterhazykastely

While in the area, you might also visit the Esterházy Palace and its magnificent gardens in Fertőd, the “Hungarian Versailles” as it is often called for its baroque beauty, or the nearby Roman-era Fertőrákos Quarry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Be sure to secure your discounted tickets until 13 March to experience this lively and colourful festival in Sopron!

See the whole program here in Hungarian: SopronFest 2024.

For other events in Hungary:

  • Budapest Spring Festival to feature over 40 events! – READ HERE
  • Budapest Museum of Fine Arts to show Hungarian-American photographic legacy, Mesopotamia, Munkácsy – READ HERE