Shows, concerts and cultural attractions – Budapest is always buzzing. Each week, we gather all of the important happenings taking place in our favourite city so you can plan ahead.
Friday, 15 December
Resident Art: New Kids on the Wall
Art lovers, this is your call! Resident Art Fair is a wonderful display of contemporary art, putting young talents in the limelight this time. So if you are curious about local artists, head to Budapest's Palace Quarter and immerse yourself in an array of art pieces between December 14th and 22nd. You might even end up leaving with a Christmas present.
More details here.
Skate in ugly sweaters
We know you have an ugly sweater tucked away deep in your wardrobe, waiting for this exact moment. Well, the time to don it has arrived: Budapest Park, a concert venue turned into a skating rink, and City Park, with an ice rink set against the backdrop of Vajdahunyad Castle, are both hosting an ugly sweater skating event on December 15th.
Tickets to Budapest Park Ice World here (you need a popular period ticket) and to City Park Ice Rink here.
THE PROJECT: UNITY6
If you are ready for an epic party with pumping music and amazing visual effects, grab tickets to the upcoming event of the rising Budapest-based electronic music event series, The Project: Budapest. The lineup includes Konstantin Sibold, Rebuke, and Omnya, who will step on stage at a unique venue, the Railway Park.
Get tickets here.
Saturday, 16 December
Go on sightseeing aboard a vintage vehicle
Firing up its engine on December 16th and hitting the road until January 2024, get ready to embark on a journey through downtown Budapest aboard the restored Ikarus 66 and Ikarus 311 buses from the Hungarian Museum of Science, Technology and Transport. While exploring, you will get to know more about the fascinating world of these era-defining vehicles, and occasionally, the ride will be accompanied by period-appropriate live music.
See the timetable and get tickets on the Hungarian website or call +36 70 702 4024!
The Grand Christmas Pop-Up at W Budapest
The opening of the W Budapest in the former Ballet Institute building was one of the most anticipated events in recent years. The building, the hotel, and the bar are all stunning, and now you get to have a sneak peek inside. A Christmas pop-up market, organised by the creative team of Lepopup Budapest, is opening on December 16th, featuring products from 10 local brands. There'll be Daige clothes, Anett Safran ceramics, Nini bags; and products that are perfectly in tune with the beautiful surroundings.
More details here.
Wander among hundreds of lanterns in the Budapest Zoo
In anticipation of the Year of the Dragon in 2024, the Biodome, a vast glass monument within the Budapest Zoo, is paving the path for its arrival. From December 16th to February 24th, you can step into a magical world filled with fantasy, lights, lampions, and massive installations of gigantic pandas, phoenixes, and dragons.
Get tickets here.
Sunday, 17 December
Makers' Market
Do this year's Christmas shopping a little differently, and pick presents from Hungarian designers. The upcoming Makers' Market at the Marczibányi Téri Cultural Centre will shower you with gift ideas made by 40 local designers. Choose from cheaper and pricier gifts, small thoughtful treats, and more prestigious design items on December 17th (10 am - 2 pm).
More details here.
MOST BRUNCH & DESIGN FAIR
And here is another banging event for a date with fashion, flavour, and fun at downtown basement bistro Most! Whether you're revamping your wardrobe, searching for unique souvenirs, or starting your Christmas shopping spree, this designer fair is the place to be. At the weekend, you can stock up on ceramics, clothes, jewellery, and even stationary – the list of vendors is so extensive, that we won't even try to name everyone (check it out here). And then stay for a hearty brunch: Budapest Bagel is bringing its mouthwatering bagels, while coffee and other breakfast dishes will be provided by the restaurant.
More details here.
Christmas movies at the Bem Cinema
Bem Cinema is our favourite repertory cinema with retro vibes and tickets without seat numbers. They are gearing up for Christmas, featuring holiday specials in their repertoire. Cheesy or not, we just love the idea of watching Jack kidnapping Santa or Hugh Grant's epic Downing Street dance on the big screen, surrounded by like-minded people. You can join these festivities too on December 17th.
Get tickets online (Hungarian-only) or on the spot.
