Tokaj - Local Festivals and Events
Tokaj Wine Festival
The Tokaj Wine Festival is one of the region’s most anticipated annual events, held every May in the town of Tokaj. The festival brings together winemakers, locals, and visitors to celebrate Tokaj’s world-renowned wines. Over the course of the event, attendees can enjoy wine tastings, local food, live music, and performances of traditional Hungarian folk dance. The festival also features artisan markets, educational sessions on winemaking, and various cultural activities that highlight the unique character of the Tokaj region. This event is a vibrant mix of culture, tradition, and world-class wine, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Tokaj Harvest Festival
The Tokaj Harvest Festival, held in early October, is a lively celebration marking the end of the grape harvest season. This festival takes place across several villages in the Tokaj region, with the main festivities centered in the town of Tokaj. The event includes processions, grape-stomping demonstrations, live music, and food stalls offering traditional Hungarian dishes. The harvest festival is also an opportunity for local winemakers to showcase their new wines, while visitors can take part in guided vineyard tours and tastings. The joyous atmosphere and deep connection to the region’s winemaking traditions make this festival a highlight of the year.
Zemplén Festival
The Zemplén Festival is a cultural event that spans the Tokaj region and the surrounding Zemplén Mountains, offering a rich program of music, theater, and art. Held every August, the festival features classical concerts, jazz performances, and exhibitions in historical venues such as castles, churches, and wineries. The event attracts both local and international artists, making it a diverse cultural celebration. The festival’s focus on combining art with the natural beauty and historic sites of Tokaj offers a unique experience that goes beyond wine, appealing to a wide audience.
Tokaj Wine and Cheese Festival
The Tokaj Wine and Cheese Festival is a smaller, more focused event held annually in the village of Mád. This festival celebrates the perfect pairing of Tokaj’s wines with artisanal cheeses from across Hungary and neighboring regions. Visitors can sample a range of wines, from dry Furmint to sweet Aszú, alongside carefully selected cheese varieties that enhance the flavors of the wines. The event also includes educational workshops, cooking demonstrations, and live folk music, making it an enjoyable day out for food and wine lovers alike.
Furmint February
Furmint February is an annual event dedicated to celebrating the Furmint grape, one of Tokaj’s signature varieties. Held in Budapest and various locations in the Tokaj region, this event features tastings, seminars, and winemaker dinners focused on showcasing the versatility of Furmint. Attendees can sample a range of styles, from crisp, mineral-driven dry Furmint to luscious sweet wines. Furmint February has grown in popularity over the years and has become an important event for raising awareness of the unique qualities of this grape variety within Hungary and internationally.
Bodrogkersztúr Bridge Festival
The Bodrogkeresztúr Bridge Festival is a local event that brings together the communities on either side of the Bodrog River. The festival is centered around the historic bridge that connects the village of Bodrogkeresztúr to the surrounding vineyards. The event features live music, craft stalls, food vendors, and activities for families. The relaxed, community-focused atmosphere, combined with the beautiful riverside setting, makes it a pleasant day out for visitors exploring the Tokaj region. The festival offers a glimpse into local life and celebrates the spirit of togetherness in this tight-knit wine-growing area.