Tömegjáték

Tömegjáték is a Hungarian term that translates to "mass game" or "crowd game". It refers to a type of public performance or ritual characterized by large numbers of participants arranged in formations. These formations often create visual patterns or images when viewed from a distance, typically from elevated positions. Tömegjáték events were particularly prominent in the first half of the 20th century, especially in totalitarian regimes, where they were used for propaganda and to demonstrate collective strength and unity.

The performances often involved synchronized movements, flag waving, and the holding of colored boards or panels to create large-scale mosaics. Participants, often schoolchildren or members of youth organizations, would be meticulously drilled to execute their roles precisely. The visual spectacle was designed to be overwhelming and impressive, conveying messages of national pride, ideological conformity, and the power of the collective. While the term originated in Hungary, similar mass performance traditions existed in other countries under similar political systems. The practice has largely fallen out of favor due to its association with authoritarianism and the logistical challenges of organizing such events.