Since 2017, Góbéfest has been bringing the vibrant and lesser known traditions of the Székler people to the heart of Manchester. Founded by cultural leader Ottilia Ördög, Partner at Counterculture and herself a Székely who has been settled in the UK for nearly 30 years, the festival is a joyful celebration of Hungarian heritage, the folklore of Transylvania, and the rich cultures of the Carpathian Basin and beyond. This year, from June 20th to 22nd, festival-goers can experience an extraordinary fusion of music, dance, arts, and culinary delights right in the centre of Manchester.
A ‘Góbé’ is a friendly term for a ‘crafty Székely,’ and the festival lives up to its name by showcasing the ingenuity and spirit of this unique community. While deeply rooted in Transylvanian traditions, Góbéfest has evolved into a dynamic, multicultural event that welcomes influences from across Eastern and Central Europe. Over the years, it has not only become a fixture in the North West’s cultural calendar but has also enabled pathways for youth volunteers to gain experience in social media, security and event management via its Góbé backstage programme.
Music and dance are woven throughout the festival and this year sees an eclectic lineup of award-winning musicians and dance troupes from across the Carpathian basin. The uniqueness of each region can be seen with dance ensembles from Ukraine, Bulgaria and Romania all giving performances. Festival-goers can also learn the traditional Hungarian Csárdás, a folk dance that starts off slow before building into a lively crescendo, or take part in the immersive Góbéfest Táncház (Dancehouse), where the audience becomes part of the performance.
Young people’s music ensemble and the only Zither band in the UK, Tulipan Zither & Folk Arts will be introducing the melodic sound of the ‘citera’, a unique Hungarian version of the Zither, with songs dating back to the 14th century. World music from the Scattered Collective and Romanian artist Ildiko Csige promises to make ‘music finding the connection of their souls’. It’s a fantastic and unique line-up, so over the weekend expect dazzling costumes, dynamic rhythms, and a chance to immerse yourself in the joyous traditions of the region.
The driving force behind Góbéfest, Ottilia Ördög is the founder and director of Beat Bazaar Projects, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing music-making opportunities, international projects, events, and training for young people and the community. A cultural leader in Manchester for over 22 years, Ottilia has played a pivotal role in enhancing the city’s artistic landscape. Her diverse background spans event management, artist promotion, and radio broadcasting, including her own show on Unity Radio 92.8FM. A cherished member and Associate at Counterculture, Ottilia became a Partner in April 2025.
Ottilia’s passion for cultural exchange is evident in her numerous projects. She is currently leading on a Counterculture feasibility study working towards the repair and renewal of the Grade II listed Oldham Mural, a distinctive mural by renowned Hungarian artist George Mayer-Morton that depicts the Crucifixion through a rare combination of fresco and mosaic that caused national outcry when it was vandalised in 2022. Through initiatives such as the Erasmus-funded International Bridge Builders programme, Ottilia continues to create opportunities for cultural and artistic dialogue across borders.
Tickets for Góbéfest are ‘pay what you feel’ and are available now here—don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration of culture, heritage, and community.