Director: Mr. Aron Kovats We are pleased to invite you and your ensemble to the VIII. "St. Ivan’s Days" International Dance and Music Festival, set in the charming town of Keszthely, beautifully located on the western shore of Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe. This festival celebrates the spirit of summer through art, culture, and friendship, providing an exceptional platform for artists from all over the world to showcase their talent while enjoying the natural beauty and hospitality of Hungary. Location - Keszthely and Lake Balaton Known as the "Hungarian Sea", Lake Balaton is a symbol of recreation and beauty, with 50 miles of tranquil green-blue water surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Keszthely, the cultural capital of the Balaton region, combines a rich history with a relaxed lakeside atmosphere. It is home to the magnificent Festetics Palace, a baroque masterpiece, as well as numerous museums, charming streets, and a welcoming promenade along the shore. Participants: Folklore groups, orchestras, majorettes, modern dance groups, choirs and music bands from all over the world No age limits No restrictions on the number of participants Participation fee: 169 Euro per person - Youth Hostel Quadruple rooms, shared bathroom Supplement for a double room is 10 Euro per person per day (maximum 2 double rooms per group) 205 Euro per person - 3* Hotel Abbázia Club Hotel Apartment for 4 people: apartments include a living/sleeping area with a double sofa bed and a double bed Supplement for an apartment for 3 people is 10 Euro per person per day, supplement for an apartment for 1 person is 20 Euro per person per day (All rooms have double beds) 219 Euro per person - 4* Hotel Admirál Family Resort Triple, quadruple rooms Supplement for a double room is 10 Euro per person per day Supplement for a single room is 62 Euro per person per day 239 Euro per person - 4* Hotel Kristály Triple rooms Supplement for a double room is 10 Euro per person per day Supplement for a single room is 65 Euro per person per day * Additional days can be booked on demand (the price depends on the chosen accommodation type). Participation fee includes: Accommodation Half board (2 meals per day) Participation in festival concerts Diplomas and gifts Organizational expenses Free entry to the local beach Participation fee does not include: Transport Optional programs Insurance Tourist tax: 2 Euro per person per day (to be paid on the spot) Program: 19 June 2026 Arrival in the afternoon. Meeting with group leaders and festival organizers, discussing the programs of the following days. Dinner at the hotel. 20 June 2026 After breakfast optional program, boat trip on the Lake Balaton. Afternoon leisure time on the beach or sightseeing in Keszthely: Festetics Palace, Pethő House, Synagogue, Gothic Parish Church, Georgikon Museum, Balaton Museum, Helikon Memorial, or an excursion to Szigliget Castle. Dinner at the hotel. Evening performance at the Music Pavilion of Keszthely. Closing ceremony, receiving gifts and diplomas from the organizers. Free time, exploring Keszthely’s evening atmosphere. 21 June 2026 Breakfast. Optional programs such as sunbathing, wine tasting, or sightseeing. Visit the Doll Museum, Surber’s Museum of Automatic Musical Instruments and Phonographs, Historical Panopticon, Georgikon Farm History Museum, or enjoy a ride on the Sightseeing Nostalgia Train. Dinner at the hotel. Free time. 22 June 2026 Breakfast, departure of the participants. Why join us: Perform by the lake: Present your art on the shores of Hungary’s most famous natural treasure. Cultural connection: Meet artists from around the world and celebrate summer through music and dance. Explore Keszthely: Discover the historical and architectural gems of one of Hungary’s most elegant towns. Perfect combination: Enjoy performances, recreation, and unforgettable moments in a relaxed lakeside atmosphere. 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.