Ludovika Festival

Between May 8 and 10, the picturesque Orczy Park will once again come alive as the Ludovika Festival returns!
Organized by the National University of Public Service, this three-day event is one of Hungary’s most versatile, free-to-attend festivals, uniquely combining academic discussions, live music concerts, family-friendly programs, and spectacular military demonstrations.
Beyond entertainment, the festival reflects on global issues, featuring outstanding international and domestic speakers who explore the current challenges in world politics, security, and environmental protection.

Ludovika Open University – The World in Focus

One of the festival’s highlights is the Ludovika Open University, taking place on May 8–9, where renowned speakers such as Orbán Balázs, Lord David Frost, Krzysztof Bosak, Tony Abbott, and Yan Xuetong will take the stage. Topics will include post-Brexit Britain, global geopolitical shifts, urgent climate change challenges, illegal immigration, and China–U.S. relations.
In various panel discussions, notable experts like Sir Liam Fox, Anthony B. Kim, and Taniguchi Tomohiko will share their insights on the changing global power dynamics.

The Open University will also address key Hungarian public affairs: Gergely Gulyás, Balázs Hankó, Rodrigo Ballester, Gábor Bordás, and János Nagy will discuss post-Erasmus international mobility and the relationship between public administration and politics.
Lectures will be held in both Hungarian and English, and participation is free but requires prior registration.

A Musical Celebration on the Ludovika Campus

The festival will also be a celebration of music.
On May 9, both the Lakeside Stage and the Party Tent will host a range of concerts, featuring performers such as Manuel, Regán Lili, Elektra, as well as Mehringer Acoustic, Szabó Balázs, and Subtones.
The musical offerings promise a lively, unforgettable atmosphere, ranging from rising young talents to established artists across multiple genres.

Family Day – Fun for All Ages

On May 10, Orczy Park will transform into a family paradise.
The Party Tent will feature beloved performers for children, including the Zabszalma Band, Ludovika Big Band, Iszkiri Band, and BrassTime.
Beyond the concerts, exciting interactive exhibits will showcase the work of military, law enforcement, and disaster management agencies.
Giant darts, a Ninja Kid obstacle course, “Stay on Your Feet!” games, and craft workshops will make the day even more vibrant.
The Orczy Adventure Park will also be open all day for visitors.

Military Demonstrations – Strength, Technology, Tradition

One of the festival’s most impressive features will be the military demonstrations.
Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see cutting-edge military technology up close, including the Leopard 2A4HU tank, the Gidrán armored vehicle, the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, and the latest KF-41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle.
BTR-80 armored personnel carriers and T-72 tanks will also be on display.
Specialized units—bomb disposal teams, reconnaissance forces, ceremonial guards—will perform live demonstrations showcasing close-combat and technical rescue operations.

Another highlight of the festival will be the 100-Day Ceremony for cadets, the final formal event before their official commissioning on August 20.

Why Visit?

The Ludovika Festival is more than just an event – it is a true meeting point: a celebration of science, music, tradition, and community spirit.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Orczy Park, everyone is sure to find a program that matches their interests—whether it’s a professional lecture, a military demonstration, a family activity, or a musical performance.

• Location: Orczy Park, Budapest

• Date: May 8–10, 2025

• Admission: Free (Open University sessions require prior registration)

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