WELCOME TO  ROYAL DAYS

11-15 August 2018.

Royal Days International Folk Dance Festival(in Hungarian: Királyi Napok Nemzetközi Néptáncfesztivál) is organized annually in Székesfehérvár, Hungary.

The first festival was held in 1996 to revive the old tradition of inviting dancers and musicians to Székesfehérvár from all over the world.

Thus far, the CIOFF recognized Royal Daysfestival has welcomed nearly 5000 dancers and musicians, 130 ensembles, and over 60 countries during the festivals.

HISTORIC BACKGROUNDFOR OVER 1000 YEARS AUGUST HAS BEEN A SPECIAL TIME OF YEAR FOR SZÉKESFEHÉRVÁR. ST. STEPHEN, FOUNDER OF THE HUNGARIAN STATE, MADE THE MONTH OF AUGUST A MONTH OF CELEBRATION AS A TRIBUTE TO CHRISTIANITY. ALTHOUGH AFTER HIS DEATH AND LATER CANONIZATION THE RELIGIOUS CELEBRATIONS CONTINUED, THE FESTIVITY SHORTLY BECAME THE CELEBRATION OF ST. STEPHEN HIMSELF.

The “Golden Charter” in 1222 –Europe’s second constitution – reinforced the importance of the occasion making it into a national holiday, St. Stephen’s memorial day. Thanks to Royal Days, Alba Regia (the latin name for Székesfehérvár) became the governmental centre of the Hungary.

Back in the old days, around 20th August the king visited Székesfehérvár, and during his visit held a reception learning about the matters of state. During his visit St. Stephen’s memorial day was also celebrated.

The former coronation town remembers its past through dance and music, while ensembles arriving from many countries around the world present their folk dances and music.

FESTIVAL MISSION

• To learn and expose the culture of nations from around the world
• To establish connections and friendships internationally
• To promote the town of Székesfehérvár and Fejér county both locally and internationally
• To promote the sponsors of the festival locally and internationally
• To enhance the cultural events of Székesfehérvár and promote its image