IpolyFest returns as a free, cross-border arts festival spanning three consecutive weekends across four riverside towns in the Ipoly region and the Danube Bend. The 2026 edition sets up stages and adventures in Szob on June 5–6, in Kemence and Chlaba (Helemba) on June 13, and in Ipolydamásd (Ipolydamásd) on June 20, building bridges between communities on both sides of the Ipoly while showcasing the area’s wild beauty and still-untapped cultural richness. Expect concerts, family programs, water activities, and local heritage spotlighted against a stunning natural backdrop—all designed to deliver unforgettable moments for every age group.
Szob: Opening Weekend on the Danube
The Danube Riverside stage in Szob kicks off on Friday, June 5. At 18:00, the opening takes place in St. Ladislaus Church of Szob (Szobi Szent László-templom) with artists from the Danube Bend Symphony Orchestra (Dunakanyar Symphony Orchestra). At 19:30, the Zsolt Zoller Band leads a street dance, and at 22:30, DJ Atesz keeps the riverside buzzing.
On Saturday, June 6, the Danube–Ipoly Sports Association runs dragon boating from 10:00 to 16:00. Evening hits start at 18:00 with the Danube Bend Rock Band (Dunakanyar Rock Band), 21:00 brings an FLM concert, and DJ Henryk closes out at 22:30. Across both days, visitors get live music, outdoor programs, dragon boat thrills, and late-night parties with FLM, the Zsolt Zoller Band, the Danube Bend Rock Band, DJ Henryk, and DJ Atesz.
Kemence: Trails, Traditions, and Community
On Saturday, June 13, Kemence starts at 09:00 with a Hazajáró guided hike to Dorottya Peak (Dorottya-bérc), departing from the Kemence Forest Museum Railway. Distance is 5.7 miles; elevation gain, 843 feet. From 14:00, performances by Kemence kindergarteners and schoolchildren precede the 14:30 ceremonial opening with speeches by Mayor János Pongrácz and MP Balázs Tóthmajor. From 14:45, the stage rotates: Rock School from the Ipolyság (Šahy) Art Elementary School; the Riot Police Wind Band; the Börzsi Dance Group from Nagybörzsöny; the Wilden Rosen Dance Group from Nagymaros (twice); the Tulipános Láda Heritage Association from Kemence; the Százd Zither Ensemble; and the Nagymaros Percussionists. Side programs include Franciska’s children’s games, a craft fair, and a buffet. At 19:00, Tamás Simon performs.
Chlaba (Helemba): Competitions and Dancing Till Dawn
Also on June 13 in Chlaba (Helemba): gates open at 09:00 with a goulash-cooking contest; 10:00, small-field soccer championship; 11:00, mölkky. From 13:00, a Children’s Day brings skill games, bouncy castles, a foam party, face painting, pizza, and American-style pancakes. Samples for tasting are due at 14:30; results for goulash, soccer, and mölkky roll out at 15:30. At 16:00, PAW Patrol—Chase and Skye save the festival. At 19:00, Ambrus Marián Live launches an outdoor dance that runs until dawn.
Ipolydamásd (Ipolydamásd): Finale
June 20 caps the journey in Ipolydamásd. Organizers reserve the right to change programs and times.
