We recently had the honor of contributing to the Hungarian Scout Association in Exteris’s Kodály Weekend camp, an annual event that brings Hungarian American children together to celebrate their heritage. Held in New Brunswick, NJ, the camp welcomed about 100 kids, ages 5 to 16, from across the East Coast, including participants from Boston, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Washington, DC, and Florida.
In keeping with our commitment to carrying cultural traditions forward, the Tulipán Foundation’s support of Kodály Weekend extended beyond funding. This year, we arranged for several renowned Hungarian artists to travel from Hungary to New Jersey, where they led immersive workshops that highlighted the folk traditions and artistic expressions of the Kalotaszeg region in Transylvania.
This region of Transylvania is known for its rich cultural history, and, through these activities, the children were able to learn about the history and symbolism behind the region's folk art. From weaving intricate designs to painting traditional motifs, the camp attendees not only gained valuable skills, but also developed a deeper understanding of the cultural traditions that have shaped Hungarian identity for centuries.
One of the guest artists, celebrated flutist Soma Salamon, introduced everyone to traditional Hungarian instruments like the zither and flute. Through music classes that were both educational and engaging, Soma gave the children hands-on experience playing these instruments, teaching them traditional Hungarian melodies and deepening their appreciation for Hungarian folk music. In addition to the music workshops, the weekend featured craft activities led by other guest artists, who guided the children to create beautiful pieces inspired by the distinctive decorative patterns of Kalotaszeg.
By supporting this special camp, the Tulipán Foundation helped bring an authentic, immersive experience to Kodály Weekend. For many of the children, this experience represents one of the few opportunities to experience Hungarian culture firsthand, making it an essential part of their ongoing journey to explore and celebrate their cultural identity.
The success of Kodály Weekend is a testament to the importance of programs like these, in preserving Hungarian traditions for future generations. The Tulipán Foundation is honored to have contributed to this weekend and is excited to continue supporting cultural initiatives that foster a shared sense of connection and community among Hungarian American youth. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Hungarian Scout Association in Exteris and supporting future generations in their cultural journey!