Szeged commemorates March 15 with ceremonies and speeches on freedom and unity

News

Mar 15

The municipal celebration of one of Hungary's most significant national holidays took place in Szeged today, beginning at Dóm Square. Deputy Mayor József Binszki laid a wreath at the statues of Sándor Petőfi and Lajos Batthyány in the Pantheon. Meanwhile, at Széchenyi Square, the Fricsay Ferenc City Concert Wind Orchestra performed, accompanied by dancers from the Pavane Dance Ensemble. The national flag was ceremoniously raised in front of the town hall before attendees marched to Klauzál Square for the main event.

The ceremony commenced with a rendition of the National Anthem by the gathered crowd and a combined choir, followed by a folk music performance featuring award-winning artists Anna Csizmadia, Gábor Nagy, and Balázs Szokolay Dongó.

Sándor Szabó, Szeged’s MSZP Member of Parliament, delivered the keynote speech, emphasizing historical and contemporary challenges. He recalled the 1848 revolution’s ideals of “Equality, Freedom, and Brotherhood” and highlighted current economic struggles, rising social inequalities, and the need for fair wages, affordable housing, and better public services. He also underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing global issues.

Szabó stressed that Szeged’s citizens would not be swayed by government promises or intimidated by financial constraints imposed on the city. He reaffirmed their commitment to freedom and European unity, praising Hungary’s role in past democratic movements.

The event concluded with a literary performance by actors from the Szeged National Theatre, a choral performance of 1848 folk songs, and a wreath-laying ceremony at Lajos Kossuth’s statue, honoring the legacy of Hungary’s revolutionaries.