The Szejkefürdő Unitarian Gathering is one of the largest and most important annual events of the Hungarian Unitarian Church. Held each September near Székelyudvarhely (Odorheiu Secuiesc), at the historic site of Szejkefürdő (Băile Seiche) and close to the tomb of Balázs Orbán, the gathering serves as both a religious celebration and a major community event for Unitarians from across Transylvania and beyond.
The central event of the gathering is the open-air worship service with Holy Communion, bringing together Unitarian ministers, congregations, church leaders, families, and visitors in a shared expression of faith and community. A traditional ceremonial procession — often featuring clergy, church representatives, flags, and local cultural groups dressed in traditional Székely attire — forms an important part of the occasion.
The event is also closely connected to the memory of Balázs Orbán, one of the greatest figures of Székely cultural history and himself a Unitarian. Following the main service, participants traditionally gather at his tomb — together with the iconic row of Székely gates leading to it, a recognized heritage site — for commemorations, speeches, prayers, and cultural performances.
Beyond its religious character, the gathering also functions as a broader cultural and community festival. Programs frequently include children’s activities, exhibitions, folk music, discussions, and presentations by different church districts and organizations. International guests and representatives of related religious communities also occasionally participate in the event.
Over the years, the Szejkefürdő Unitarian Gathering has become one of the most symbolic events of the Hungarian Unitarian Church, expressing religious identity, cultural continuity, and the enduring spiritual heritage of Transylvanian Unitarianism.
