As already reported, in the wake of the restrictions imposed by containing the spread of the coronavirus, Budapest’s downtown Akvárium Klub has postponed its party and concert agenda but its bistro and terrace remain open for the time being at least. Measures announced this week called for a ban on indoor public gatherings of more than 100 people, and outdoor ones of over 500.
The A38 Ship has so far only only postponed its concerts for March. They hope that the situation will change in the right direction by April. In any case, the art shows and events in the Exhibition Hall, as well as the restaurant, remain open for the time being. While the Dürer Kert has closed completely, Buda live venue Barba Negra has set new dates for several concerts on its Facebook page.
The TRIP Boat has also cancelled events but has set up a streaming service for live shows being staged behind closed doors. In another unique move, the venue is now home to its own new troupe born out of these extraordinary circumstances, the First Hungarian Quarantine Theatre company. Hungarian-language performances will be streamed live on the TRIP Boat Facebook page – the first, suitably, is a dramatisation of The Plague by Albert Camus.
Legendary ruin bar Szimpla Kert has also closed but is promising to stream live shows on its YouTube channel. The Mika Tivadar is still operating as a bar, but events have been cancelled, including the wondrous Beat On The Brat party series. The Instant-Fogas complex, including the Robot, has closed for the duration. Tickets will be redeemed and sent to the club’s ticketing partner within 24 hours. However, it is also possible to keep the ticket you have already purchased, as many events should be held later. The Ellátóház on Dob utca has also closed.
Smaller venues in Budapest’s party zone, such as Kisüzem, Központ, Telep, Dzzs Bár are staying open, their agendas so far unaffected. The popular brand of Spíler bar/restaurants, including one in the nightlife hub of Gozsdu Udvar and another at MOM Park, will also continue to operate, ‘with even higher standards of hygiene’.
