Then and Now: Past and present meet in Esztergom

The combination of past and present in one place always presents an exciting mixture; it's no coincidence that the Then and Now Vehicle Expo has been one of the biggest community events in Esztergom and its surroundings for many years. 7th time this year marks its 7th edition, and once again, the usual colorful cavalcade awaits visitors on April 27-28 at the Rugby Club event area on the Great Danube Promenade. The lantern parade will be held on April 30th on the Little Danube.

For years, the colorful program series of the expo has been attracting thousands of people, and this time will be no exception with a variety of activities. In addition to the two- and four-wheeled vehicles from the distant past and present, there will also be entertaining programs suitable for all ages, as well as an industrial history exhibition featuring radio, photo, and film equipment spanning a 100-year period. Visitors to the 'Sound & Image – The Past Innovation, Present Inspiration' presentation will have a unique opportunity to study the evolution and societal impact of these tools. The Esztergom photographs will showcase the life and development of the city and its region, while the historical audiovisual materials will demonstrate the contemporary technological applications of radio and TV. The host and main sponsor of the event, Magyar Suzuki, will present its entire product range, including the award-winning car models produced in Esztergom, such as the Vitara and S-CROSS, as well as motorcycles and outboard engines.

Among the accompanying programs, games that engage both young and old, dance performances, and concerts take turns, as this event has been a city music festival for years. On Saturday, April 27th, Ladánybene27 will perform, while on Sunday, the 28th, Radics Gigi will give a major concert. The exhibition and all accompanying events are free to attend on 27th April from 10:00 to 20:00 and on 28th April between 10:00-18:00 at the Rugby Club event area on the Great Danube Promenade.

The lantern parade also has a great tradition. As the saying goes, 'Our lives are as colorful as lanterns.' These colorful illuminated objects made of paper or canvas, originating from Asian cultures, represent beauty, joy, and community wherever they appear. They symbolize that life may be diverse, but it is full of beauty and countless experiences. The locals in Esztergom are attached to the lantern boat procession, as it brings carefree fun and shared experiences year after year. This year, it will take place on April 30th from 8:30 PM on the section of the Little Danube, a DJ and Zoltán Szujó creating the atmosphere, followed by Anna and The Barbies starting from 10:00 PM.