Our regular round-up for the upcoming weekend offers plenty of suggestions for where to go, what to do and who should not be missed during the next three days. There are always so many happenings to choose from in Budapest – exhibitions, parties, live music, festivals and more – but here is our pick of the bunch:

Friday

2pm - : Sweet Days Chocolate and Sweets Festival at Szent István tér by St. Stephen's Basilica

This will most certainly be the sweetest weekend of the autumn in Budapest. A selection of international and local hand-crafted confections, chocolates, cakes, ice creams and other sweet seductions will be showcased all weekend by St. Stephen's Basilica. The country’s best pastry chefs and confectioners give entertaining demonstrations and when night falls, delightful jazz and classical performances and fine glasses of wine elevate the atmosphere. The winner of the first Budapest's Dessert award will have a separate stand. And to increase anticipation, entry to this festival is free. More details (in Hungarian)

5pm - : Kr4ft: Kraft Beer Festival at Főzdepark

The Kraft Beer Festival returns to Főzdepark for the fourth time with self-serve taps, brewery tours, concerts and craft brews by both Hungarian and foreign producers. This three-day outdoor festival is free.

5pm - 6am: Telekom Electronic Beats Festival at the Várkert Bazaar

This international music extravaganza kicks off on Friday with several exciting events spanning two whole days. The main hub will be the Várkert Bazaar, and in addition to hosting performances of renowned stars of the pop and electronic music scene, the venue also hosts a variety of exciting cultural events.

9pm - 10:30pm: Horror Film Club at the Bem Cinema

For a good Friday-night chill head to the Bem Cinema, where you can watch A Nightmare on Elm Street and The Blair Witch Project oneafter one another with original English audio and Hungarian subtitles. The event is free, supportive donations can be given on the spot.

10pm - 5am: VOLT Lokál Season Opening // Gerappaaa at VOLT Lokál

Don sassy socks, choker necklaces, or baggy pants and a baseball cap as the songs of Eminem, the Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, the Pussycat Dolls, the Spice Girls and other treasures from the ’90s trash bag are back again. Head to VOLT Lokál on Friday night and travel back in time with the hottest hits of your youth. Entry is free.

Saturday

8am - : National Gallop at Heroes' Square

Budapest’s scenic Heroes’ Square turns into a racecourse during Saturday and Sunday, evoking the atmosphere of bygone times. Young jockeys dressed up as Hungarian hussars get on horseback, while archers, cavalrymen and other historic Hungarian figures entertain crowds. Discover Hungarian equestrian traditions during this two-day extravaganza, and cheer as horses and riders compete for the grand prize and national glory. More details

10am - : Day of Hungarian Cultural Heritage at various venues

On Saturday and Sunday, buildings that are closed most of the year open their gates to the public. The aim of the event is to draw attention to Hungarian architectural and cultural heritage and to be a reminder of their fragility. Click for participating buildings and the detailed schedule.

10am - 10pm: CityMatiné s07e08 Season Closing at the Buda Castle garden

The pioneer of daytime parties, CityMatiné closes the summer season with one last bash at the Buda Castle garden. Drink and dance during the day and let sunshiny vibes fill your soul.

12pm - : Summer Never Ends Party at Kabin 

Summer never ends. Or does it? Party organisers Cream of Soundscloses the summer season with a farewell party. The event starts at noon with music, food and drinks and the dance party goes on until dawn at riverside hangout Kabin.

7pm - : Guerra De Titanes: Dope Calypso vs Deep Glaze at A38

On Saturday, two prominent groups in the Hungarian underground music scene, Dope Calypso and Deep Glaze, will take part in a battle of the bands on the A38 Ship. The alternative titans clash to see who’s better: rock veterans Dope Calypso and their half-naked freak show or young and aspiring Deep Glaze and their new-generation guitar music? See for yourself.

Sunday

10am - 5pm: Vinyl Record and CD Fair at Dürer Kert

Browse countless vinyls, cassettes, DVDs and CDs from more than 70 sellers at Dürer Kert on Sunday. You’ll also find T-shirts, posters, magazines, books, pins and memorabilia.

11am - 7pm: Day of Markets at Erzsébet tér

On Sunday, the Nem Adom Fel (“I Won’t Give Up”) Foundation is organising the Day of Markets with the involvement of people with disabilities. Central Erzsébet tér will turn into a massive market place in the spirit of collective thinking, sustainability and social inclusion.

5pm - : ¡Viva Mexico! at the Hungarian National Gallery

On Sunday, Mexico celebrates one of its most important fiestas of the year, Día de la Independencia. This is the day when the decade-long war broke out in 1810, which eventually gained the country independence from Spain and led to the foundation of the Mexican state. The Hungarian National Gallery is preparing various attractions to participate in the celebration: authentic Mexican food, huapango songs, mariachis, do-it-yourself sombrero workshops and tours. For this occasion, the Frida Kahlo exhibition keeps its doors open for the public at night as well.