Budapest Weekend Guide for 17-19 February

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. Get involved!

Friday, 17 February

Imrpov Theatre

The show re:Verse is a fun performance where all is about love and improvising. The actors are about to pull the strings of the heart: they will craft a bunch of love songs on the spot. You can hear musical hits about bad first dates, horrible pick-up lines, first cheeky Tinder messages, and Instagram-worthy proposals, you name it. Quite literally: you can get involved and throw in an idea for the actors to work with. Songs are born right before your eyes, there is no rehearsal, just improvisation. The language of the performance is English.

You can still snag tickets here. 

Finnish Film Days

The popular film festival Finnish Film Days kicked off on Wednesday at Toldi. You can see the very best of contemporary Finnish cinema during the weekend: watch films like Girl Picture, Compartment No. 6, Karaoke Paradise, and the touching documentary film Just Animals. The films will be screened with English and Hungarian subtitles.

Get tickets here. 

Dance the night away

If you are in the spirit of the carnival, join the Masquerade House Party at the bistro at Rudas Baths on the 17th. Make sure to come early and enjoy some pampering at the baths before all the dancing, including chilling in the jacuzzi on the rooftop. Get tickets here. 

If you miss the atmosphere of the '90s, and wanna zig-a-zig-ah, head to Akvárium Klub on February 17th for an unforgettable nostalgic party. Get tickets here. 

Saturday, 18 February

Farmers' Market at Czakó Kert

Set off on a journey up the Buda hills and try the products of local producers at Czakó Kert's market. You can get your hands on delicacies such as goats’ cheese, organic fruit and veggies, bread, honey, jams, smoked meats, or hyacinths all weekend. The market starts at 8 am on Saturday and 9 am on Sunday, and the bistro will be open too if you fancy a hearty lunch or a pretty dessert after your shopping spree.

Mardi Gras Carnival at MONYO TapRoom

On the 18th, head to MONYO TapRoom and join a New Orleans-styled Mardi Gras carnival. Purple-gold-green decorations and some Mississippi specials will evoke America: you can try Jambalaya, the traditional Gumbo, or the Po'Boy Sandwich. Expect also some dirty New Orleans tunes by talented buskers. Dressing up is not obligatory, but it is worth putting some thought and effort into your outfit: if you're wearing a MONYO-themed costume, a glass of beer and your meal will be on the house.

Sign up for a free guided brewery tour here.

Night Skating at City Park Ice Rink

Ice skating season is coming to an end soon, but before that an ice disco is due. On February 18th, head to City Park Ice Rink and skate the night away with the Vajdahunyad Castle backdropping the scene. Did we mention that two DJs will be playing hit songs? The event starts at 9 pm and ends at 1 am.

More info here. 

Sunday, 19 February

Love stories and guided tour at the Hungarian National Gallery

As a special treat for Valentine's Day, listen to the favourite love stories of the Hungarian National Gallery. During this 1-hour-long guided tour, held in English, you can wander among the most intriguing art pieces while unravelling mysteries of scandals and true love. There is a lot to tell, as love, being gentle, joyful, painful, or passionate, has always been one of the most inspiring sources for artists. 

See snowdrops blooming at Alcsút Arboretum reserve

The mild February weather brought the first drops of snow, so the celebration of snowdrops started at the Alcsút Arboretum reserve. This botanical garden outside Budapest has a unique flower field showcasing seven species of snowdrops and 24 types of these pretty white flowers. The blossoming will last for four to five weeks depending on the weather.

More info here. 

Child-friendly rave party

On the 19th, you can attend the PomPom Acid Farsang at Akvárium Klub with the whole family (actually you can only enter with children). This is the first and only family rave in Hungary, and it will be conducted by the techno master DJ Titusz. You are free to dress up as Spider-Man, Darth Vader, Elsa, or Barbie. Expect a creative table, a baby corner, face painting, changing table, a bar and snacks.

Get tickets here.