Dear visitors, dear citizens of Fehérvár,
Let’s turn back the wheel of time and leave behind the city we know today. Take a step into the crowd of medieval Székesfehérvár, where preparations are underway for the city's votive feast. The beaten paths, which have been here for centuries, lead here from everywhere to the city of Saint Stephen. By carriage, on horseback, or on foot, chief priests, Knights and everyday people are arriving, and in front of the coronation basilica, the crowd is already gathering to be part of the day when the King dispenses justice. The day when the king listens to everyone, when he delivers justice in person, and when he calls for counsel about the fate of the kingdom. The bells of the basilica are ringing, goods are changing hands with loud chatter in the market, and those waiting for judgment are whispering excitedly...
As the historical capital of the nation, with the Székesfehérvár Royal Days and lots of colorful programs, we pay tribute this year again on Saint Stephen's Day, and we bow to those who have shaped our country's history over the centuries. This year it starts a bit later, and this unique multidisciplinary arts festival continues even after August 20th, our city's most festive period, as we warmly welcome visitors all the way until August 23rd, in line with the four-day weekend. As the opening of the Royal Days of Székesfehérvár, on August 14 there will be a votive mass and a procession to recall Saint Stephen's legacy, our past comes to life in a ceremonial play at the National Memorial, and in the following days, the performers of the international folk-dance festival will bring the traditions to life on the stage in Zichy Park. Between August 20 and 23, the Coronation Festival Games and Knights' Day will take us back to the era of our kings. The city center will once again be filled with iconic giant puppets – this year joined by Charles Robert and Louis the Great – and pop music concerts will make sure the evenings are full of good vibes. For us, this period is a celebration of human encounters, conversations, and shared experiences. I invite you to experience the Székesfehérvár Royal Days together, and let's spend the time between August 14 and 23 together!
Dr. András Cser-Palkovics – The Mayor
