Nestled in the scenic village of Hungarian Field (Magyarföld), the Fatemplom Festival promises to fill the heart of Őrség with music, culture, and unforgettable experiences from July 11-13, 2025. A blend of outdoor and church concerts, the festival offers everything from world-class symphonies to vibrant folk acts, along with both secular and religious programs in a magical setting.
Festival Line-Up and Events
Kicking off on Friday, July 11 at 4:30pm, the festival opens with the celebrated duo Márta Sebestyén & Judit Andrejszki (Sebestyén Márta & Andrejszki Judit). The Zalaegerszeg Symphony Orchestra takes the stage at 5:45pm, followed by Hungarian FolkEmbassy at 7pm. At 8pm, you can catch an art exhibition featuring the graphics of András Simon (Simon András), titled “Recognizing the Hidden Face of God in Each Other.” The lively Csík Band (Csík zenekar) performs at 8:30pm, with Ági Szalóki (Szalóki Ági) closing the night at 10pm with her show, “I Have Already Been Freed…”
Saturday, July 12 heats up at 4pm with Katlan. Later, György Ferenczi (Ferenczi György) and his legendary band First Pest Rackák (1-ső Pesti Rackák) play at 5:30pm, Kaptza at 7pm, and a unique collaboration “Kaláka – Rackaláka” at 8:30pm. The evening wraps up with Zoltán Rátóti (Rátóti Zoltán) and Péter Huzella (Huzella Péter) at 10pm, with their evocative performance “…the treasure I desired.”
Sunday, July 13 starts gently with the Hungarian Air Force Band at 10:30am—free entry for all. Attend the ecumenical service at 11am or the show “Here Walked the Earth” at 1pm—both with no entry fee. The afternoon offers soulful concerts with Misztrál (4:30pm), Orkestar Planina (6pm), and the renowned Muzsikás at 7:30pm.
Tickets and Entry
Snag tickets early at the Kaláka Music Shop (Kaláka Music Store) for discounted passes and day tickets. There’s a 20% online discount through May 31, 2025, and 10% until July 4. After July 4, only regular prices apply, but passes are available onsite throughout the festival. Ticket desks open July 11 at 3pm, July 12 at 2:30pm, and July 13 at 10am.
Both in person and online, tickets can be purchased using SZÉP Card (OTP, K&H, MKB). Little music fans aged 3 and under get in free!
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
The rustic and friendly Abbázia Country Club, tucked away in the heart of Őrség, offers countless activities, sports and leisure services, a traditional menu, and a serious dose of Hungarian hospitality. Horseback riding is a standout here—indoors or out, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders of all ages.
If you seek tranquility, explore forests full of fresh air, fishing lakes, and scenic hills perfect for hiking or cycling, right outside your door. Self-catering guesthouses throughout the village let you reach the center with just a ten-minute stroll. Nearby farms offer more equestrian adventures and carriage rides.
Saint Peter-in-Őrség (Őriszentpéter), the region’s heartbeat, provides a renovated, stand-alone guesthouse for up to 10 guests—five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a dreamy garden. At AGAPEUM in Steward Village (Ispánk), a one-hectare anthroposophic retreat, group lodging options for adults range from single rooms to eight-bed dorms.
The Acacia Honey Apartment (Akácméz Apartman) in Saint Peter-in-Őrség (Őriszentpéter) sits on the forest’s edge, just five minutes from the center. This 430-square-foot (40 m²) apartment comfortably hosts 4-5 people, and includes a well-equipped kitchen, bathroom, and living room.
Stay in Kerkakutas or within Őrség National Park for more rural charm—many houses have fenced gardens, beautiful hill views, and offer absolute peace away from city noise.
Prefer a touch of grandeur? Several accommodation options mimic classic Hungarian baroque mansions, boasting simple elegance, ensuite rooms, TV, internet access, and fully equipped kitchens. The grounds feature sprawling gardens and even medieval moats.
Anna Villa, halfway between Maribor and Lake Balaton in Lenti, provides two-bedroom apartments, balconies or terraces, plus wired and complimentary Wi-Fi. Have groceries delivered directly, and stroll to the famous thermal baths in five minutes.
Local Flavors and Eateries
Dining in Őrség is all about local authenticity. Find homestyle menus serving traditional buckwheat-based dishes alongside regional and international specialties. Many restaurants emphasize heart-healthy and regional fare, with secluded, family-run spots waiting to surprise you with genuine countryside hospitality.
Craving a culinary adventure? Enjoy favorite snacks in restaurants nestled around lakes perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing. The famed Vadása, Borostyán, and other lakes offer not just stunning views but endless outdoor fun. The area is also home to Hungarian Saturday Village (Magyarszombatfa), Hungary’s southernmost “potters’ village,” ideal for lovers of unique ceramics.
A Festival Not to Miss
The Fatemplom Festival offers a packed summer weekend of music, art, and authentic rural experiences in the lush landscapes of western Hungary. Whether you’re a culture-seeker, nature lover, or foodie, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and stories to take home. And don’t forget: the organizers reserve the right to adjust dates and programs, so stay tuned for surprises!
