Debrecen4U
October 2, 2026
Older Persons Celebrated with Songs, Dance, and Poetry in Debrecen
1 October is the International Day of Older Persons, traditionally marked in Debrecen with a talent show for older people. This year, too, the programme was organised by the team of the City Social Services at the VOKE Egyetértés Community Centre. The city marked the opening gala of Older People’s Month in Debrecen with a surprise performance, while the Csokonai National Theatre announced a theatre season ticket tailored to the needs of older people.
One after another, entertaining performances by Debrecen’s senior citizens’ clubs took to the stage. Nearly 130 performers presented 36 acts at the 24th talent show for older people. “The members of the club on Thomas Mann Street prepared songs, dances, an individual poem and a story; we put together a very varied programme,” said Gábor Bádogos.
The 36 performances offered a glimpse into the active and creative community life that characterises the everyday lives of people receiving services from the City Social Services. The gala was a fitting opening to Older People’s Month, during which the institution offers a wide range of programmes for older residents. “There are nine day-care centres for older people operating within the institution, and each one holds its own smaller event. We also organise harvest celebrations at the day-care centre for people with disabilities, so this month is all about entertainment and celebration,” said Mrs Lajos Nagy, head of the City Social Services.
Young people welcomed the audience of 500 with a folk dance performance as a gift from the city, while the Csokonai National Theatre announced a discounted theatre season ticket specifically tailored to the needs of older people on the International Day of Older Persons. “On the one hand, we provide the infrastructure that enables them to enjoy their community life, and we are very happy to take part in and support their participation in programmes. The city also regularly provides opportunities for Debrecen’s pensioners’ associations to attend theatre performances. We maintain regular contact and exchange information through the Council for Older People, while the city also seeks to support older residents through its social care system,” said Mayor László Papp.
On the International Day of Older Persons, an exhibition also showcased the creative work of 90 people receiving care and support. The exhibition can be viewed at the VOKE Egyetértés Community Centre until 9 October, and from 13 October at the Older People’s Home on Pallagi Road.
Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu
