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With over 49,000 visitors, 300+ domestic and international speakers, 100 professional programs, 40+ concerts, and 150 exhibitors, this year was the largest and most successful MCC Feszt in history, and we can't wait to do it again.
The fourth annual MCC Feszt, held from August 1 to 3 in Esztergom, proved to be a monumental success, solidifying its reputation as one of the Carpathian Basin's most significant professional and music festivals.
The festival featured a diverse array of events, including thought-provoking public discussions with both domestic and international speakers, prominent names from the Hungarian pop music scene, dance houses, craft workshops, and family-friendly interactive programs.
The festival’s opening on August 1 set the tone for an engaging three days. With a full house and enthusiastic crowds, the event kicked off with a blend of insightful panel discussions and dynamic musical performances. Zoltán Szalai, MCC’s Director General, praised the festival as "a true intellectual showcase," emphasizing the impressive lineup of speakers from Hungary and abroad. The mayor of Esztergom, Ádám Hernádi, expressed hopes for continued collaboration with MCC, highlighting the festival’s importance to the city.
The opening discussions featured prominent figures such as former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, former Slovak Minister and EU Commissioner Ján Figel, MCC Board Chairman and Political Director to the Prime Minister Balázs Orbán, and MCC Director General Zoltán Szalai. They provided a comprehensive analysis of recent European Parliament elections, migration issues, and the broader geopolitical landscape. Kurz and Figel discussed the shift in European politics and the need for a stronger focus on diplomacy and peace, while Orbán highlighted the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts.
The festival also shone a spotlight on Hungary’s tourism industry. Balázs Kovács, CEO of Danubius Hotels, and Ráhel Orbán, Creative Director of BDPST Group, discussed the sector’s recovery to pre-pandemic levels and its alignment with global trends, particularly in wellness and experience-based tourism. They noted that while inflation and increased hospitality costs pose challenges, there are opportunities to attract guests from less affected regions.
During MCC Feszt, several key discussions highlighted current political, economic, and cultural issues. János Bóka, Hungary’s Minister for European Affairs, criticized the use of EU funds as a political tool and emphasized restoring European competitiveness and strategic defense autonomy. Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, Minister of Defense, stressed the need for better social recognition of soldiers and readiness for potential conflicts. Chris Rufo defended Hungary's stance on migration amid criticism from leftist media. Experts at the "Rough Seas Ahead" panel discussed the evolving global order and potential East-West conflicts, while Hungarian company leaders showcased their success in international markets. Zsolt Hernádi from MOL Nyrt. addressed Hungary's oil supply challenges and criticized EU policies on electric cars. Panels also covered education’s role in cultural preservation, the impact of digital media on the arts, and societal issues such as pornography addiction and mental health.
On Edu Promenade, over 150 exhibitors showcased a wide range of educational and cultural activities. The festival provided a platform for interactive learning and entertainment, with panel discussions addressing topics like labor market expectations and career choices. One highlight was the engaging talk by Hungarian music legends György Korda and Klári Balázs, who shared their experiences and career insights with a young audience.
The festival’s musical lineup was equally impressive, featuring performances by top Hungarian pop stars such as Csík zenekar, Majka, Halott Pénz, and Irie Maffia. The blend of intellectual stimulation and musical enjoyment created a vibrant atmosphere that captivated attendees throughout the event.
Looking ahead, MCC Feszt promises to continue its tradition of excellence. The 2025 edition will be held from July 31 to August 2, offering even more exciting discussions, top-tier speakers, and captivating musical performances. The festival organizers express their gratitude to all who attended and look forward to another successful event next year.
Thank you for joining us at MCC Feszt 2024. See you in 2025 for another celebration of ideas and music!
