Bridge Festival

The Bridge Festival is a significant cultural event scheduled for September 25-27, 2026, across the cities of Esztergom, Hungary, and Párkány (Štúrovo), Slovakia. This festival commemorates the 25th anniversary of the Mária Valéria Bridge's reconstruction and reopening in 2001, highlighting its role as a symbol of connection between the two nations.

In Esztergom, events on September 26-27 will include a rich lineup of concerts from artists such as Fonó Band, Cimbaliband, aurevoir., and Péter Geszti, alongside a lively ABBA and Boney M. show. Attendees can also enjoy theatrical performances, a historical novel discussion, a bridge-history exhibition, and family-focused activities like Park Cinema, creative workshops, literary games, a fairy-tale trail, dog demonstrations, face painting, and linoleum printing. A food court will also be available.

Párkány kicks off the festival on September 25 with presentations titled "Films About the Bridge" at its Cultural Center, recounting the bridge's history. On September 26, visitors can explore a craft fair, an outdoor exhibition, and an autumn playhouse on Sétáló Street, while the Párkány City Museum hosts "The Forgotten Bridge" exhibition. The Párkány program also includes theatrical performances and concerts.

A highlight of the festival is the Mária Valéria Bridge Run and Walk on September 26. This sporting event, requiring registration, offers participants a 4-kilometer course starting at St. Stephen's Square in Esztergom, crossing the Mária Valéria Bridge, and concluding at the Vadas Thermal Baths in Párkány.