One of the first big festivals to be organised in the Tokaj wine region was the Whit weekend festivities in Sárospatak which celebrate Saint Elisabeth of Hungary. In addition there is folk dancing, a market along the main street in the castle district and the re-enactment of the 1458 Botkő Battle by the Zemplén Equestrian Society held in the Castle garden’s above the river, a lovely spot to watch hoardes of costumed soldiers, peasants and lords battle it out for victory. This is a weekend of horsemenship, fairs and traditional clothes and weapons. A spectacular show in an amazing setting!

In the traditional procession around the town starting at 3 pm, people dress up in traditional 13th-century clothing to commemorate the birth of St Elisabeth of Hungary. The procession leads from the castle around the historic town of Sárospatak to return to the church where mass is held on Whit Monday. This is followed by puppet performances, mmusic and circus fun. Plus all afternoon there are fun and traditionanl games, including archery, around the Water Gate between the Castle and the river Bodrog.

Whit Monday has a short religious procession and is also the first day of the 5-day pilgrimage to Košice in Slovakia, the end of the St Elisabeth Way. This pilgrimage route, which leads up through the Zemplén hills and over the border, along the river valley to the city of Košice, includes both ideas for reflection and information about local products.

The Saturday afternoon sees a children’s dance festival and choosing the Whit queen.