Looking for something meaningful to do this fall? The Archdiocese of Veszprém is pulling out all the stops to offer a vibrant program of exhibitions, concerts, guided tours, educational lectures, family fun, and spiritual experiences across several locations and towns. If you’re seeking culture, inspiration, or just a special day out with loved ones, mark your calendar for October and November.
Liszt’s Birthday Concert: A Free Musical Feast
October 22 at 7 PM is the night to celebrate the birthday of Franz Liszt (Liszt Ferenc), Hungary’s legendary composer. At this festive concert, András Virágh—recipient of the Liszt Prize and honored Artist of Hungary—will perform on the organ, bringing Liszt’s masterpieces to life. The program includes Introitus, Angelus, Tu es Petrus, Trauerode, Ave maris stella, Consolation, and the iconic Fantasy and Fugue on B-A-C-H. Admission is free, so if you love classical music, there’s no reason to miss it.
Guided Castle Walks: Explore Hidden Corners
From October 23 to 26, immerse yourself in Veszprém’s history with guided castle walks. Discover stories, architecture, and secrets that even locals might not know. Groups are welcome, and tours are available in English as well.
Magdi Festival: Faith, Community, and Discovery
The heart of the lineup is the Magdi Festival, centered around Blessed Maria Magdalena Bódi (Bódi Mária Magdolna)—a young martyr celebrated for her purity and faith. October 26 is packed with activities for all ages:
At 10 AM, take part in the Magdi Tour, a lively treasure hunt through the city, following in Magdi’s footsteps. Start at the Bíró-Giczey House and roam solo or in small groups. Expect puzzles, inspirational quotes, and interactive tasks at sites tied to her life across town squares and churches. The goal? To truly connect with—not just learn about—the radiant purity and strength of Magdi’s faith.
The Magdi Tour is for everyone: families, youth, parish or school groups—it’s a fun and memorable bonding experience no matter your age.
At 6 PM, the festival’s main event awaits: a festive mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Veszprém, led by Archbishop Dr. György Udvardy. This mass celebrates gratitude, purity, and unwavering faith, reviving the joy of Magdi’s beatification and inspiring today’s youth and families to embrace similarly courageous faith. Join in for prayers, music, and a sense of community at 16 Vár Street.
Then, at 7 PM, immerse yourself in sacred sound at the final Orlando concert—Musica Paenitentiae & Gratiae (Music of Repentance and Grace). The Orlando Vocal Ensemble delivers a deeply moving performance of church music that honors Magdi’s integrity and spirit. Expect a transformative evening that invites both gratitude and soul-searching.
Magdi Bike Pilgrimage: Pedal in Her Footsteps
Fans of two wheels won’t want to miss “Tekerj Magdival” (Ride with Magdi), a youth bike pilgrimage honoring her October 26 vow of purity. Meet at Balatonfüred train station at 8:45 AM—don’t worry, the organizers will wait for the train arriving from Budapest at 7:12. After a brief prayer, the ride departs at 9:30.
The route:
– 9:30 – Start from Balatonfüred
– 11:30 – Procession with Magdi’s relic in Balatonfűzfő, followed by prayers at the church and lunch
– Litér – Remember Magdi at the site of her martyrdom
– Around 4 PM – Arrive in Veszprém
– Optional: 4:30 PM tour of liturgical spaces or 5 PM book presentation
– 6 PM festive mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral (ending by 7 PM)
Return from Veszprém is individual, with trains to Budapest every hour. Registration closes at noon on October 23. There’s also a 12-hour adoration session the night before in Balatonfűzfő, with dorms available upon request.
Costs: under 30s pay $8, over 30s pay $16, to be paid by the deadline.
Cycling is in groups, but solo routes are also welcome. There’s a 45-person limit, with participants over 30 years old riding in a separate group.
Autumn Rendezvous: Love & Laughter for All Ages
Wrap up the season on November 8 at 5 PM with the “Autumn Rendezvous” at the Gizella Hotel & Restaurant. Enjoy a fascinating talk about marriage and family with author Anna Karády and her husband, Máté Molnár, and an engaging music-literary program by Zoli and Rita Berzeviczi called “We Lean Into Time.” Bring the kids—there are special activities for them too—and perhaps a homemade treat to share. Entry is free, but registration is required to secure your spot.
Stay Flexible!
Organizers reserve the right to change programs or times, so check for updates before you head out. Whether you’re inspired by faith, culture, music, or simply curiosity, Veszprém’s lineup promises something unforgettable for everyone.
