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, 9 February
Budapest Independent Film Festival
The Budapest Independent Film Festival kicks off on February 9th at the Kino Café Cinema. The cosy venue is the location of the screening of 15 short and feature-length independent films, all thought-provoking narratives and documentaries.
Check out the programme here.
TechnoCool exhibition
This is the last weekend you can view a very cool exhibition in the stunning building of the Hungarian National Gallery, showcasing the visual arts of the decade after the fall of communism. It features a selection of (then young) artists whose work was hugely influenced by the electronic music revolution. The collection is extremely diverse, displaying paintings, objects, photographs, prints, videos, and computer-based artworks by around half a hundred artists. What's more, you can join a party on Saturday right under the dome for an art-meets-music experience. The performers include Acideal, Emcsi, MZ/Y, Galactic Jackson and Rozi Mákó.
Get tickets here.
Basqueland Tap Takeover at Hopaholic
If you like craft beer and don't mind trying Spanish brews apart from local ones, head to the party district's beloved craft beer bar and bottle shop, Hopaholic. They are hosting a Basqueland tap takeover for a week, which means you can try cocoa, chocolate, and hazelnut-infused Imperial Pastry Stout or New England-style IPA with mosaic, cashmere, citra, and ekuanot, even in the form of flights.
Book a table here.
Fiesta de Carnaval at Tereza
Latin carnival vibes are in full swing at downtown eatery/bar Tereza between February 8th and 11th. So if you are curious about Mexican culture, dance and gastronomy, pop in and enjoy lively colours, live acoustic music and authentic Tex-Mex bites. Munch on Fried frioles salsa, Cheeseburger gringas, or Cheesecake tacos, then wash them down with a Margarita. DJs are joining the party too.
Book a table here.
Saturday, 10 February
Lángos Day at Czakó Piacz Farmers' Market
Halfway up the Buda Hills, Czakó Piacz Farmers' Market is a real gem. Popping up every weekend, this lovely garden offers fresh goods from local producers, from sourdough bread and ham to flowers and honey. On February 10th (8 am - 2 pm), you can also try a Hungarian delicacy here: homemade deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese (lángos).
More details here.
Carnival at the Budapest Garden
If you are on the lookout for a carnival that is for the whole family, deck a costume and head to Budapest Garden on February 10th. Loads of fun activities await in the heated space of the main building: get a face painting, enjoy a puppet show, craft a mask, and munch on doughnuts.
The ticket costs HUF 5,000 for children and is free for guardians. More details here.
Vintage Clothes Fair at Szimpla Kert
On February 10th (between 12 pm - 5:30 pm) head to Budapest's most iconic ruin pub, Szimpla Kert, but forget the beer this time. Instead, browse a great selection of vintage and recycled clothes and accessories. The event is not only about shopping though - it is also a meeting place for like-minded people who stand for sustainability.
More details here.
Cziffra Festival – Freedom of Music
Cziffra György Festival is a collection of musical and artistic treats. For more than two weeks, starting on February 10th, you can join special piano concerts, performances, children's concerts, and exhibitions, and meet young artists.
Check the programme here.
Sunday, 11 February
Market time
Whether it's a plant fair or a designer fair –you can start your Sunday morning either way! If you are more into pretty blooms, head to downtown beer bar MADHOUSE, where Kiskertpiac pops up with lush plants and plant-based products. In a different location, local designers are laying out their handmade products at the Makers' Market.
Carnival at Hello Buda
The closing weekend of the carnival season (which Hungarians call 'the tail of farsang') brings a little pizzazz to the popular food court, Hello Buda. It's a good chance to sample what locals eat during this season: expect pork delicacies, delicious hams and legendary doughnuts. You can come in costume or not, and dance to beats provided by the DJ. On Sunday, the tables are laid for a hearty brunch made up of the same yummy offer.
More details here.
Photo Exhibition: Budapest's Hidden Architectural Heritage
Marvel at architectural treasures hidden behind Budapest's old doors at this new photo exhibition housed at Hintaló! You can view the works of amateur photographer Vincent Baumgartner, who has spent years documenting the lesser-known aspects of old apartment houses in Budapest. Vincent's objective is to contribute to the conservation of these beautiful but often decaying buildings and to inspire both locals and visitors to venture beyond the beaten paths, uncovering the hidden stories that enrich this city.
The exhibition is on view until the 7th of March. More details here.
Before Sunrise & Before Sunset at the Bem Cinema
On February 11th, our favourite repertory cinema, Bem, spoils us with not one but two classics: you can watch Before Sunrise and Before Sunset one after the other. These films have moved many young hearts, not to mention that they are both rated above 8 on IMDB. Whether you are pre-celebrating V-Day, or just loving the carefree vibes the movies envelope you in, pick up your super cheap tickets (HUF 2,900 for both films) soon!
Get tickets online here.
+1 Watch the Super Bowl live at a pub
In the early hours of February 12th at 00:30 GMT+1, the San Francisco 49ers will go head-to-head with the Kansas City Chiefs at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. If you are a passionate American football fan and are eager to catch the Super Bowl live with your mates, Budapest offers several options. Head to popular bars and pubs like Dürer Kert, Stifler Ház, Majorka, or Kandalló Pub, or opt for a cinema.
