HUNGARY

Summerfest International Folklore and Cultural Festival

Summerfest International Folklore Festival is a long-standing international folk dance and cultural event held every year in Százhalombatta, Hungary, from 12th to 21tst of August. The festival brings together folk dance and music ensembles from many different countries with the aim of celebrating cultural diversity, traditions, and international friendship.

One of the key missions of Summerfest is to build bridges between cultures. The festival provides a welcoming environment where performers and audiences can experience the traditions, music, dances, customs, and everyday culture of different nations. A distinctive feature of the event is that visiting performers are often hosted by local families rather than staying in hotels, which creates strong personal connections and allows genuine cultural exchange between guests and residents.

The program of the festival is rich and varied. It includes opening and closing ceremonies, large-scale stage performances, dance panoramas, and gala shows where international ensembles present their national folk dances and music. Community-focused events such as the Ball of Nations, dance houses, and interactive workshops allow both locals and visitors to dance and celebrate together. There are also special programs for children and families, introducing traditional games and customs from different cultures. Many of the events are free of charge, making the festival accessible to a wide audience.

Beyond stage performances, Summerfest places strong emphasis on shared experiences and community life. Informal gatherings, festival clubs, boat programs on the Danube, and social events create opportunities for performers and spectators to interact in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. These moments often lead to long-lasting friendships and repeat visits from international groups.

The Summerfest International Folklore Festival has earned international recognition for its quality and cultural value. Since 1998, it has been a certified festival of CIOFF®, the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts, which operates under the auspices of UNESCO. This status confirms that the festival meets high professional and ethical standards in preserving and presenting folk traditions.

Overall, the Summerfest International Folklore Festival in Százhalombatta is more than just a series of performances. It is a celebration of cultural heritage, human connection, and mutual respect, offering unforgettable experiences for performers, hosts, and audiences alike in a vibrant, community-driven setting.