XXII Feast of the Holy Crown
On Saturday, 1 August, and Sunday, 2 August 2026, the Feast of the Holy Crown returned to Balog nad Ipľom with another two-day programme bringing together families, communities, and those interested in the celebration. The events took place on Kápolna Hill and at the Romanesque-era St. Nicholas Church.
Alongside traditional, cultural, and family-oriented activities, the weekend included a festive Holy Mass, a procession, and communal commemorative events. The celebration connected the historical heritage of Balog nad Ipľom with the life of its community today.
A Tradition That Brings People Together
The Feast of the Holy Crown is one of the important traditional celebrations held in Balog nad Ipľom. At its heart is a local tradition according to which the Holy Crown was kept in Balog nad Ipľom for one night.
Each year, the celebration brings together historical memory, Christian life, local traditions, and the parish community. An important setting for the programme is St. Nicholas Church, an early medieval church dating to the Árpádian period, which also hosts the Sunday liturgical programme.
Saturday, 1 August
Food, Folk Music and Family Activities
Saturday’s programme began at 10:00 with Ízek udvara, offering local food, folk music, a sausage-roasting competition, and tastings. The programme featured Húros Banda, the Bukréta traditional group, and the Búzavirág Choir from Kisfalud, Székesfehérvár.
From 13:00, Gyerekváros offered a programme for children and families. The afternoon featured Szende Csernyik Pál, a Székely storyteller, the Kuttyomfitty Társulat, the Csokigyáros confectionery show, and children’s entertainment by Zsuzska Szabó’s Mesezenekar, including balloon modelling.
Saturday Evening Programme
The main stage programme opened at 6:00 p.m. with a performance by Siklósi és Bandája, followed at 7:30 p.m. by Kar!zma. At 9:00 p.m., Republic took the stage for a headline concert, while Bréda Bia performed at 11:00 p.m. At midnight, the after-party began and continued into the early morning hours.
Additional Activities
A variety of activities accompanied the main programme throughout the two-day event. Visitors could explore a craft exhibition and market, take part in hands-on craft workshops, discover and purchase local products, and experience activities such as archery, horse riding, and falconry.
Sunday, 2 August
The Sacred Day of the Celebration
Sunday’s programme began at 9:30 a.m. with a ceremonial address, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of Count János Esterházy. The commemoration featured a performance by Aranka Sarolta Lőrincz and the Búzavirág Choir from Kisfalud, Székesfehérvár. A procession carrying a replica of the Holy Crown then set out for the medieval St. Nicholas Church.
Solemn Holy Mass
At 10:30 a.m., a solemn Holy Mass was celebrated at St. Nicholas Church, an early medieval church dating to the Árpádian period. The principal celebrant was Dr. József Parák, Episcopal Vicar for Hungarian-speaking Catholics of the Diocese of Banská Bystrica. During the celebration, the Holy Crown Commemorative Medal was presented.
The music for the Mass was provided by soprano Lilla Takács, the Szent Korona Choir, and the Szent Korona Chamber Orchestra.
Mohács 500 – Festive Concert
At 4:00 p.m., St. Nicholas Church, an early medieval church dating to the Árpádian period, hosted a festive concert commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Mohács. The performers were soprano Lilla Takács, bass Péter Balás, the Szent Korona Choir, and the Szent Korona Chamber Orchestra. The programme was conducted by Ottó Molnár and Károly Pászti.
Remembering the Past, Strengthening Community
The Feast of the Holy Crown in Balog nad Ipľom brings together historical memory, Christian faith, and a shared sense of belonging. Each year, it gives us an opportunity to preserve our local traditions, experience them together, and pass them on to future generations.
The Celebration in Pictures
Browse the key moments of the XXII Feast of the Holy Crown in our photo gallery.
See You at the Next Feast of the Holy Crown
The tradition of the Feast of the Holy Crown continues in Balog nad Ipľom. Visit the website of St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Parish for information about our celebrations, Holy Masses, events, and parish community life.