Summer festivals in the countryside in 2026—explore some of the most exciting programmes

Hungary is a true festival powerhouse—and the events at Lake Balaton garner special attention every year. One of the most spectacular events around Lake Balaton is the 58th Kékszalag sailing race, which is a highlight of the July programmes. The start in Balatonfüred is particularly spectacular, and visitors can enjoy accompanying programmes, concerts, and food stalls along the shore all day long.

In July, programmes in Siófok usually include large-scale open-air concerts and events at the Plázs, while Balatonfüred features wine weeks, pier concerts and evening events along the Tagore promenade. Another significant venue is the Strand Festival in Zamárdi in August, which is known for hosting major pop music events over the summer, intended for a younger audience.

For art lovers, visiting the Kapolcs Valley of Arts in the Balaton Uplands—a multi-arts event series taking place across several villages—is a must. Around this time, the streets of Kapolcs and the two neighbouring villages come alive with concerts, literary discussions, exhibitions, and open-air theatre performances at the Völgyfesztivál (Valley Festival), as many call it.

In recent years, Veszprém has become one of the cultural centres of Transdanubia. This year, Kraftwerk will also perform there in one of the most anticipated concerts of the season. In addition to the musical experiences, Veszprém’s attractions—the castle district, St Michael’s Cathedral and the panoramic viewpoints—also contribute to combining concert tourism with sightseeing. In addition to the major concerts, the region will also host open-air theatre performances, smaller music evenings and gastronomic weekends.

One of the biggest music events in Eastern Hungary is the Campus Festival in Debrecen. Featuring more and more international and Hungarian performers every year, the festival also offers community programmes, sporting events and food courts. In Poroszló, by Lake Tisza, weekend village fêtes are scheduled for August. 

The July programmes in Hajdúszoboszló entice visitors with beach festivals and evening pool parties, while the Nyíregyháza programmes include traditional days at the Sóstó Open-Air Museum, open-air concerts and family events. In August, a particularly large number of community events and weekend village fêtes await visitors nationwide. The Szeged Open-Air Festival and the performances at Gyula Castle Theatre are standout highlights among Eastern Hungary’s open-air theatre programmes.