In 2016 the Zemplén Festival (Zempléni Fesztivál) celebrates its 25th anniversary! The first major festival established in the Tokaj Wine Region, it brings some of Hungary’s best musicians for a week and a half of music. Classical, jazz, folk, church – whatever you like, you’ll find something to your taste.

In inspired and unusual venues from castles to hunting lodges, churches to synagogues, wineries to cafés, even disused quarries. Some locations become mini jazz venues in their own right – in cool bars just perfect for chilling out under the stars. Or experience the hospitality of Hungarian villages, as the ladies put on snacks – definitely taste their pogácsa (a typical Hungarian mini yeasted scone) and the wines. And it can be fun to join one of the trips that takes in a couple of concerts, perhaps venturing into nearby Slovakia too.

With a variety of locations small and large, and prices for every pocket – including a large number of free events -, it is no surprise that this serious programme of outstanding performers draws a crowd who return time and again. A couple of highlights for you are:

• Sárospatak Wine Terrace – with jazz and concerts every night, wines by the local Sárospatak winemakers’ association and great chilling space in front of the Cultural House
• One day in Mád – 4 concerts, 1 village, many great winemakers!
• excursion concerts – to more remote villages

There are too many events to list, so check out the programme here.