THE KOMÁRNO DAYS

The days of Komarno are symbol of friendship, mutual respect and existence of two historically linked towns, Komarno and Hungarian Komarom. Many years ago these two towns were one belonging to one of the richest in the whole Europe, concerning agriculture, history and trade. The town was first divided into two towns in 1919, right after the WW I and the creation of Czechoslovakia. In 1938 it was united under Hungary. The final division came up again in 1948 by which Komarno the town on the left banks of Danube River was determined again as a part of Czecho-Slovakia.

Danube creates natural border between these two towns even though I sometimes think it seems to be absolutely useless. The inhabitants of both towns live in peace and harmony. The fact that you can see young people from Slovakia often every evening in Hungarian discos is one of many, many examples that shows that coexistence of both parts really exists and it is very good.

The Days of Komarno enable the people from this area to reminisce all the cultural traditions in a way of competitions and exhibitions. We could see and hear many rock, jazz and dance floor groups that were presented by young musically gifted people.

The celebrations took 7 days. There were many attractions that captivated our attention. We could take part in the opening of the Beer Tent in Hungary next to thermal baths, and then we could see the Cup of General Klapka, International shooting competition in Hrbas with historical guns. The atmosphere that surrounded us was simply incredible. From the cooking tents you could also smell the aroma of Hungarian Kolbasz-sausage, Goulash and cakes.

Children were welcome at the fantastic merry-go-around. In spite of my age (20) I was very curious to find out how it feels to be shaken and mixed in that great monster. Later on I found that I made a mistake, as my stomach didn’t bear it. Anyway I enjoyed the atmosphere. It is a pity that these celebrations take only seven days and I am sure that people would welcome it more often.

During the days many folk dance groups came to Komarno. They performed their program and created nice mood. Folk dance group Lodiar and Dunaj are very popular in our area. You could also see dog exhibition, Ping-Pong and basketball competition. Next you could take a part in a country evening and take a part n a lecture of modern art.

I think that everybody found its area of interest. Personally I think this celebration has became a very nice tradition and I hope if will survive for next generations.

© Claudia Veghova
Narcisova 2
946 11 Komarno

Published in the Slovak Heritage Live newsletter Volume 5, No. 3, Fall 1997
Copyright © Vladimir Linder 1997 
3804 Yale Street, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada V5C 1P6
The above article and photographs may not be copied, reproduced, republished, or redistributed by any means including electronic, without the express written permission of Vladimir Linder. All rights reserved.