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From August 10 to 20, the historic heart of Székesfehérvár will once again come alive with pageantry and celebration as the Royal Days Festival returns.
One of Hungary’s most anticipated cultural events, the festival offers a rich lineup of nearly 100 unique programs, blending medieval spectacle, music, dance, crafts, and family activities in honor of St. Stephen’s Day, writes turizmus.com.
This year’s Royal Days will see the return of beloved traditions: towering royal puppets, knightly tournaments, costumed parades, and lively medieval fairs, all set against the backdrop of Székesfehérvár’s baroque downtown.
Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences, including treasure hunts, artisanal workshops, folk dance performances, and concerts. For those seeking a slower pace, café terraces and award-winning local pastries provide the perfect break between activities.
Organizers promise an unforgettable atmosphere for all ages. Among the standout events:
“Day of the Knights” on August 16 brings tournaments, chivalric displays, and hands-on experiences for children and adults alike.
In the bustling old town, visitors can participate in a detective-style game involving the iconic royal giant puppets alongside craft sessions, a historical market, and folk dance showcases.
On August 20, the grand finale takes shape with the “March of the Kings,” a spectacular historical parade featuring the full 23-member royal puppet family winding through the city’s streets.
The festival extends beyond the stage, offering other immersive programs and local explorations:
Torchlit evening tours on Friday nights and panoramic bus tours on Saturdays are organized by the local Tourinform office.
Visitors can also enjoy open-air cinema, honey festivals, and evening light projections onto City Hall.
The Sóstó Nature Reserve and Visitor Center offer a nature escape, while cultural enthusiasts can discover exhibitions at one of Hungary’s most renowned toy museums.
The Royal Days Festival is deeply connected to the legacy of Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen, whose memory is celebrated nationwide each August 20. Székesfehérvár, once a coronation city of Hungarian kings, brings this history to life with unparalleled vibrancy and creativity each summer.
Whether you’re drawn by medieval fanfare, Hungarian folk culture, or simply looking for memorable family experiences, Székesfehérvár Royal Days offer something for everyone.
Via turizmus.com; Featured image: MTI/Lakatos Péter