Get ready for a unique celebration as the beloved PanyolaFest (PanyolaFeszt) returns from August 1-3, 2025, transforming the sleepy streets of Panyola into a vibrant hub of music, dance, food, and all things Szatmár. Celebrating its 19th year, the festival promises its trademark blend of local flavor and cross-border culture—so mark your calendars for the first weekend of August and join locals and visitors alike for an unforgettable experience.
Szatmár’s Cultural Heartbeat
Over the past decade, PanyolaFest (PanyolaFeszt) has become much more than a local event. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a mission-driven festival, fostering both community bonds and regional heritage. Each year, civic organizations and local villagers come together to shape a festival that has managed to put Szatmár’s best-kept secrets on display, from artisanal treasures to mouthwatering delicacies.
In 2025, the festival turns up the international flavor. Special guests from the village of Perbenyik (Perbenyik, Felvidék/Upper Hungary) will showcase their unique culinary traditions and perform dazzling displays of their regional culture. This year, cross-border unity is in the spotlight, with a shared commitment to keeping rural and minority cultures alive and giving them their moment in the sun.
Music, Dance, and Relentless Fun
Enjoy an electrifying program, sponsored by the National Cultural Fund, that expertly weaves together rock, folk, and all kinds of musical delights. Local legends like Bohemian Betyars, Magyar Banda, Boggie, Folk Error (reuniting for the occasion!), and RitMusa band are all set to perform. Early risers on Saturday can catch the Szélműves ensemble serenading bathers by the riverbank.
Kids aren’t forgotten, either. Puppet theater, a Bori Songs (Bori-dalok) concert, mobile playgrounds, storytellers, crafts, and even an outdoor drive-in movie will keep the little ones entertained. Marvel at stunning dance routines from Hungarian and Felvidék (Upper Hungary) folk troupes before lively táncház (folk dance parties) take over both Friday and Saturday nights.
For anyone itching to get moving, the festival features the epic Beregi Circuit (Beregi Kör) bike tour and the “Run to the Gravel!” (Fuss a palajig!) race, so there’s no excuse not to join in the action.
What’s On: Day by Day
Friday, August 1:
– 1 pm: Gates open and so does the art! The Szatmár Creative Camp painting exhibit launches at the Community House, followed by hours of Hungarian and Slovak folk dance performances and live folk music.
– Evening: Concerts light up two stages. Highlights include the GHP concert, Folk Error reunion show, and the night concludes with Magyar Banda, followed by a late-night folk dance session with Komák band until 2 am.
Parallel events: Browse the artisan market, sample Szatmár’s legendary pálinka brandy, take a guided pálinka tour, try archery and horseback shows, and taste local wines. Kids’ crafts and an outdoor drive-in guarantee family fun late into the night.
Saturday, August 2:
– Early: The Beregi Circuit (Beregi Kör) bike tour kicks off at 9 am (pre-registration required), followed by the Palaj-party riverboat concert and the “Run to the Gravel!” (Fuss a palajig!) footrace.
– Afternoon: The stage features children’s acts, Bori Songs (Bori-dalok), and RitMusa band, with more folk dancing from the Szatmár group and Boggie’s concert in the fragrant Lavender Courtyard.
– Night: Bohemian Betyars take the main stage before more táncház until 2 am.
All day: Explore the artisan market, feast on Szatmár and Slovak cuisine, picnic among the lavender, join crafts workshops, and witness thrilling horseback and archery displays.
Sunday, August 3:
Expand your horizons with cultural discussions and attend the festival-closing worship and classical concert at the Reformed Church.
Pálinka, Paddling, and Pillow Fights: Accommodation and Eats
Whether you prefer a cozy guesthouse or rustic camping, Panyola has something for everyone. The charming Cibere Guesthouse (Cibere Vendégház) nestles quietly in an orchard and offers accommodations from dorm rooms to attic galleries. Several local houses can also host up to seven people, with kitchens and even tent space for those who want to sleep under the stars. Many private cabins in the village are open year-round, eager to showcase Szatmár’s famous hospitality.
Hungary’s “village of pálinka” won’t let you go hungry. Dive into hearty local meals, wood-fired oven specialties, or grab a bite at Eldorado Pizza World & Café (Eldoradó Pizza Világ & Kávézó), where the menu is as inventive as it is satisfying. Step into the Hollywood Restaurant (Hollywood Étterem) to marvel at memorabilia from Indiana Jones or Back to the Future, while you enjoy everything from Hungarian stews to authentic Italian pizza. For a touch of seclusion, try the Seven Star Resort (Hét Csillag Üdülőközpont), nestled beside a Gothic church in Beregdaróc.
Biking Through History: The Beregi Circuit Tour (Beregi Kör)
If you’re up for adventure, the Beregi Circuit (Beregi Kör) cycling tour (about 44 miles round trip) is the ultimate way to experience the region. Starting at 8:30 am Saturday, riders cross the Szamos (Someș) by ferry and pedal through towns like Olcsvaapáti, Tákos (known for its barefoot “Notre Dame” church), Csaroda, and Márokpapi, finishing at Panyola’s festival grounds in time to catch the evening’s live performances.
Participation costs $8 for adults, $5.30 for students and covers professional guiding and technical support. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one (or an e-bike) for $10–$21.20, including a helmet. Registration is required by August 1, and the tour runs with at least 10 riders.
The Invitation: “Like Coming Home”
For 19 years, every first August weekend, Panyola’s streets have come alive with laughter, folk tunes, delicious food, and an atmosphere that makes you feel, simply, “like coming home.” Whether you crave culture, adventure, or new friends, PanyolaFest (PanyolaFeszt) is waiting with a shot of pálinka, a plate of local delicacies, and plenty of good cheer. Why stay home?
