5th Renaissance Carnival of Gyula

The carnival has become familiar among the events and festivals of our town. The children and other groups, attending the procession, begin to prepare in December, to prove their show to be the most colourful and amusing of all. We aim to provide adults and children a possibility to make friends with the period in which our town had the best times, and from which our famous fortress originates playfully. Of course visitors can get acquainted with all components of the renaissance life; contemporary culture, history and gastronomy can be discovered, but also everyday activities can be tested – within and without the walls of the fortress.

The feast is opened by a flamboyant, funny procession, which starts in front of the Town Hall with the performances of the groups dressed in period clothes. The competing gangs can have ideas from the middle ages for the masquerade. A renowned jury appraises the shows and accompanies the pageant to the festival tent, where huge fair and diverse programs await all participants.

Gastronomy is also emphasised these days. Guests can taste confections, dishes, and drinks recalling renaissance and local customs not only onsite, but also several restaurants offer a repertoire, specially applied for this occasion. Those, who like balls, are attracted by a renaissance dinner, as every year a banquet of high standard is organised in the beautiful gala-hall of the Major’s Office.

Children will not go home without a good pastime either! They can assist various children’s programs (puppet productions, performances of stilt-walkers, dancers, fencers, actors and showmen), handicraft and museum activities, learn dances, compete, and try many period tools and professions.

All deserve cheer! Adults can take part in real joust, where they have to proof their courage, and who wins, will be dubbed knight!

Join this joyful carnival crowd! Gyula warmly welcomes you.