The Haferland Week Festival returns for its 14th edition, transforming the “Land of Oats” region into a place of reconnection under the theme “Longing for Transylvania.” Between August 6 and 9, 2026, ten Transylvanian villages—Archita, Saschiz, Homorod, Rupea, Criț, Roadeș, Meșendorf, Cloașterf, Bunești, and Viscri—will open their gates to tens of thousands of visitors eager to experience authentic local culture.

This year’s festival is held under the dual patronage of Mr. Mircea Abrudean, President of the Senate of Romania, and Nadia Comăneci, a global symbol of excellence, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first Perfect 10 awarded at the Montreal Olympic Games in 1976.

The theme of this year’s edition, “Longing for Transylvania,” adds a special depth to the event. The Romanian word dor is notoriously difficult to translate, as it represents more than a simple feeling of longing—it is a state of mind. It is the driving force that inspires a return to one’s roots, not as an act of passive nostalgia, but as a way to gain clarity, inspiration, and renewed energy for building a more conscious and purposeful future.

The 2026 festival program is exceptionally diverse and generous, designed to appeal to all age groups and a wide range of musical, cultural, and culinary interests. The heart of the festival beats within the thick walls of Transylvania’s fortified churches. Alongside visits to UNESCO-listed heritage monuments, visitors will enjoy authentic experiences that recreate traditional celebrations, where brass band music, folk dances, and community balls bring the spirit of the Saxon village back to life.

Festival-goers will discover traditional concerts and folk dance performances. Saxon brass bands will fill the village streets with music, gathering people together just as they did in times past.

Haferland Week is the largest event in Romania dedicated to promoting the culture and traditions of the Transylvanian Saxon community. Discover the 2026 festival program here.