Nestled in southeastern Hungary, Gyomaendrőd is about to serve up an action-packed season, loaded with events to beat the autumn and winter gloom. From salsa classes to Halloween thrills, family fairs to literary gatherings, the calendar is packed with choices for all ages and tastes—whether you love getting crafty, dancing the night away, soaking up culture, or feasting on traditional food.
Culture, Language, and Literary Evenings
Autumn kicks off on October 26 with an insightful look into the world of European languages, featuring a lecture in Hungarian by linguist Dr. Balázs Kovács at the OMart Bookstore and Cultural Workshop. Literature fans can also look forward to November 4, when famous Hungarian TV presenter Júlia Kudlik hosts a heartwarming evening reflecting on her life, from the early days to today, surrounded by stories, photographs, and timeless wisdom. She’ll be joined by editor Gábor Bencsik and, with any luck, plenty of audience interaction. There will be a chance to buy her book and have it signed at the end.
Music lovers won’t want to miss the November 8 triple-anniversary literary-musical afternoon. OMart Bookstore hosts an event honoring the 120th birthday of Attila József, the 20th anniversary of the band Tűzmenedék, and the 70th birthday of Albert Molnár, all celebrated with sung poetry.
History enthusiasts can dive into Hungary’s past on December 13, as historian István Tamás Molnár leads the third “History Lesson” at the OMart Cultural Workshop.
Dance the Blues Away—Salsa & Bachata Take Over
Love the Latin vibe? Every Tuesday from late October to mid-December, the town moves to the rhythms of salsa and bachata. These fun, beginner-friendly classes promise instant moves to modern hits and classics. While anyone can sign up, ladies are encouraged to bring a partner.
Halloween: For the Brave and Young at Heart
On October 31, Gyomaendrőd hosts its 4th annual Halloween Courage Challenge set deep in the “cursed forest”—not for the faint-hearted! That same day launches “Halloween at the Sirató” (Siráto), a three-day extravaganza running until November 2. From 10 AM to 8 PM, families can enjoy a jam-packed schedule: pumpkin carving, face painting, hair braiding, glitter tattoos, a selfie corner, and every ticket includes a chance in the raffle. There’s a buffet open until 7 PM, kids’ programs, and plenty of leisure activities.
Fairs, Competitions, and Family Fun
November 15 is a big day for families and enthusiasts alike with the 3rd “Gyomaendrőd Cube Adventures”: a hands-on LEGO exhibition and playhouse open from 10 AM to 6 PM, featuring memory games, coloring, a photo wall, Ninjago spinner battles, cube hunts, and even cosplay. Rubik’s Cube fans can marvel at a LEGO robot solver, while adults enjoy darts and console games in the “Dad-preservation corner.” Plus, prizes are up for grabs!
The same day marks the 11th National Cartoon Festival at the Ferenc Kállai Integrated Cultural Center (Kállai Ferenc Integrált Kulturális Központ), promising a nostalgic cartoon celebration.
Prepare for Christmas with the “We Get Ready—Advent Craft Market” on November 21 at Győző Határ City Library (Határ Győző Városi Könyvtár). And on November 24, “XMAS Rehab, or There’s No Christmas Without Stress” addresses the festive season with humor and camaraderie.
Star Guests and Motivational Nights
Hungarian TV legend Judit Endrei (Endrei Judit) meets locals on November 22. On November 19, famed reporter Vujity Tvrtko arrives for an inspiring, adventure-filled evening of optimistic storytelling, sharing unbelievable career highlights from around the globe. His show, “Further Beyond All Borders,” promises to uplift and motivate.
Bacon, Brandy, and Tradition: The Disznótor Festival
On November 22, Gyomaendrőd celebrates pork and craftsmanship at the 16th Disznótor (Pig Slaughter) and János Tímár Böllérpálinka Memorial Sausage & Brandy Festival. Chefs and home cooks compete in preparing classic Hungarian pig-slaughter dishes: roast sausage, blood sausage, cabbage with pork, and other traditional recipes. Local market stalls overflow with handmade sausage, pork cracklings, and smoked meats. The catering stand serves old favorites like fried blood, cigánka, roasts, and more—a true heaven for foodies.
Advent: Community Spirit and Celebration
From late November through December, Advent activities light up Gyomaendrőd every Sunday. The mayor kicks off celebrations, local clergy share festive thoughts, and the German Nationality Self-Government (Német Nemzetiségi Önkormányzat) contributes with its own program. December 7 features a Christmas meal for those in need, a visit from Santa, and folk dances performed by the Körösmenti troupe. Later Sundays include musical devotions and performances from the Baptist congregation and musical duos, plus interactive children’s shows, Christmas fairs, and creative workshops making cookies and ornaments.
A Festive Finale
See out the year on a high note: December 6 brings a concert by renowned guitarist József Eötvös. And December 21 hosts an all-day Christmas market, a fun run, crafts, music, and festive cheer—culminating in shared reflections from local pastors. There’s no shortage of ways to warm both body and soul in Gyomaendrőd this season.
