From February 6–8, 2026, the Kocsonya Festival—known as the largest festival in the region—was held in Miskolc. This year, alongside its renowned culinary and entertainment programs, the event also served as a platform to showcase EU development policy.
The National Development Centre (NFK) aimed to introduce visitors—through clear, engaging, and interactive formats—to EU development initiatives and results that directly shape their future opportunities, from higher education and digital transformation to green investments.
Information was delivered through interactive elements, including a giant puzzle, a quiz wheel, and other engaging challenges that made learning both accessible and entertaining.
Particular interest surrounded the festival-themed quiz, which highlighted major development projects in the county. Participants learned about initiatives such as the ammonia removal investment in Ináncs, a project of the Bükk National Park, and the renovation of the fire station in Tolcsva.
The event prominently featured the “Developing Together” brand, which focuses on community impact and tangible project results. NFK’s mascot, Szecső the grasshopper, also made an appearance. Alongside the festival’s iconic frog symbol, this new “green ambassador” welcomed visitors with development-themed puzzle, matching, and memory games.
Participants in the activities had the chance to win prizes related to the Széchenyi Plan Plus program and the NFK, further strengthening awareness of the initiatives.
According to the organizers, the various activities enabled approximately 1,500 visitors to gain first-hand information about Hungary’s development policy and the opportunities provided by EU funding.
