From my photos at Flickr Produced by Kayakman Media

Visitors expecting only to see the wonderful views, architecture, and art available on Castle Hill were afforded an extra treat this past weekend. June 28-July 1st found Hungarians celebrating a few of the things that make up who they are--great food, drinks, and tradition--at A Magyarok Nagyasztala (The Grand Table of Hungary). As attendees from all over the country stroll through the dozens of booths that line both sides of the castle they are surrounded by a feast for the senses. Pastries baking over slow burning fires. Savory meats roasting. Various blends of fruit and nut balls creating a rainbow of colors. And the beverage of your choice, including an award-winning palinka, to cleanse the palette--or cool it off if you stopped at the paprika booths!

As you satisfy your taste buds, you have only to turn about to find enjoyable entertainment. Street performers in medieval dress stroll about--some singing, some dancing, others jesting and jousting. If you prefer more formal entertainment, you need only to stop by the main stage. A small folk band plays so that partners could be twirled and heels slapped in traditional dances until cooks who battle in the back step forward to claim their awards in different categories. Of course, if you need to walk off a few off those delicious calories and still have some forint in the pocket, walking the lower drive could allow you to deplete both. Vendors there offer both traditional and contemporary books, maps, clothes, furniture, and more.

It may be no coincidence that this great taste of Hungary falls during the Duna Nap (Danube Day) which celebrates the cultures of the Danube River Basin.