Director: Aron Kovats Welcome to the Heart of Hungarian Summer The Balaton International Folk Festival invites you to experience a unique celebration of music, dance, and friendship on the shores of the legendary Lake Balaton, affectionately called the “Hungarian Sea.” This magnificent 50-mile-long lake — the largest in Central Europe — is a true symbol of Hungary. Its shimmering green-yellow waters, sandy beaches, and lively promenades make it the country’s favorite summer destination. Your festival home will be Siófok, the vibrant capital of Lake Balaton’s southern shore. Known for its beachside charm, open-air concerts, and bustling nightlife, Siófok perfectly blends cultural heritage with holiday atmosphere. Participants will have the opportunity to perform on scenic open-air stages, enjoy the beauty of the region, and take part in exciting leisure programs. Join artists from around the world for an unforgettable few days of folklore, music, and fun under the summer sun! Participants: Folklore ensembles, orchestras, majorette groups, choirs, modern dance teams, and music bands from around the world Choirs must be able to perform on open-air stages No age limit and no restriction on the number of participants Limited festival capacity – early application is recommended Participation fee: Aranypart Camping & Holiday Resort - https://aranypartcamping.hu/en/ 149 euro per person - Rosa Holiday House - Two-storey houses for up to 8 people, each with a semi-covered terrace, 4 double bedrooms, living room with SAT-TV, equipped kitchenette, gas stove, refrigerator (170 l), and two bathrooms with shower/WC. Includes garden furniture, coffee maker, cookware, and free parking for 2 vehicles. 175 euro per person - Carmen Holiday House - Single-storey house for up to 5 people with terrace, 2 double bedrooms, living room with extra bed, SAT-TV, kitchenette (gas stove, fridge, coffee maker), and bathroom. Free parking for 1 car. 179 euro per person - Rosa Plus Holiday House - Spacious two-storey home for up to 8 guests, with similar amenities as Rosa but upgraded furnishings and a larger terrace. 189 euro per person - Carmen Plus Mobile Home - Modern mobile home for 5 people, featuring air conditioning, two bedrooms, living area with dining corner (convertible to bed), fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and covered terrace with outdoor furniture. 189 euro per person - Eurocomfort Mobile Home - Ideal for families or groups of friends (4 adults + 2 children), with two bedrooms, living room, kitchenette, bathroom, air conditioning, and panoramic terrace overlooking Lake Balaton. 3-Star Hotel Option Hotel Renegade – https://renegadehotel.hu/en/ 195 euro per person (in triple or quadruple rooms) Supplement for double room: 10 euro per person per day Supplement for single room: 20 euro per person per day Half-board included (breakfast and dinner daily) Participation fee includes: Accommodation in chosen category Half-board (breakfast and dinner) Participation in festival performances Diplomas and commemorative gifts from the City of Siófok Official invitation Organizational assistance and guidance throughout the festival Participation fee does not include: Transport Tourist tax (2 euro per person per day, payable on site) Optional excursions Travel insurance Program: 4 September – Arrival and Orientation Afternoon arrival and hotel check-in Welcome meeting with group leaders and festival organizers Discussion of festival schedule and logistics Dinner and free evening to enjoy the lakeside atmosphere of Siófok 5 September – Performance and Celebration Breakfast Optional morning program: scenic boat trip on Lake Balaton Free time at Siófok Beach, one of Hungary’s most famous and family-friendly swimming areas, known for its shallow, warm water and long sandy shores Evening performance on Siófok’s main square followed by the official closing ceremony Presentation of gifts and diplomas from the city and organizers Dinner and free evening to explore Siófok’s famous nightlife, with beach bars, pubs, and live music until late 6 September – Cultural Discovery Day Breakfast Optional sightseeing program in and around Siófok: Water Tower, Rose Garden, Millennium Park, Jókai Park, Harbour, and Imre Kálmán Museum Mineral Museum and Egg Museum for unique local exhibits Excursion to Zamárdi, including the Kőhegyi Lookout Point and Donkey Stone Visit to the Tihany Peninsula, a natural and historical gem offering breathtaking landscapes and ancient Benedictine Abbey ruins Dinner and free evening 7 September – Departure Breakfast and departure of groups, or optional stay extension upon request Why Join the Balaton Festival Perform in one of Central Europe’s most iconic lake destinations Experience Hungarian folklore, hospitality, and summer culture Enjoy a relaxed festival atmosphere with music, sunshine, and friendship Combine artistic performances with a real holiday experience Discover the beauty of Balaton, Siófok, and Tihany - where culture meets nature Any group willing to participate must submit an Application form. Approved groups pay in advance a 10% guarantee fee, which is to be deducted at the final payment.