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, 1 March
Art and Antique Budapest 2024
If you are an art lover, Hungary's largest classical and contemporary art fair is a must-visit. Whether you'd like to buy a painting (some of them ringing up to hundreds of millions of Forints), a unique rug, or simply enjoy window shopping through the offerings of 40 galleries, Bálna Budapest is the place to be between February 29th and March 3rd.
More details and the list of exhibitors here.
Lightdome
Between March 1-17th, Budapest Zoo's Biodome lights up with a new spectacle. Be among the first to explore a stunning display of light art inspired by natural phenomena. Installations by local and foreign artists cast a radiant glow throughout the entire space, sure to leave you in awe.
More details and ticket info here.
Garden of Lights
And here is another illuminating activity: this is the last weekend you can catch the fairytale-like Garden of Light at the 250-year-old ELTE Botanical Gardens (ELTE Füvészkert). The multimedia exhibition invites you down the rabbit hole (and along a 52-metre light tunnel) to immerse yourself in the surreal realm of Alice in Wonderland. Meet the Cheshire Cat and the Caterpillar, or join the Mad Tea Party!
Get a sneak peek here and tickets here.
Henri Gonzo acoustic at Twentysix Budapest
Twentysix Budapest is an urban jungle of a restaurant in downtown Budapest. On Friday, experience more than just lovely smells, spot-on flavours and sumptuous cocktails filling the space – enjoy the acoustic melodies of the talented Hungarian musician Henri Gonzo on stage from 8 pm.
Get tickets here.
Saturday, 2 March
Tulip Fair 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, including sourdough bread, ham, flowers and honey. What's more, on March 2nd (8 am - 2 pm), you can nibble on raclette and welcome spring in style by stocking up on beautiful tulips.
More details here.
Black Market at Pikszis
Pikszis is a fairly new cultural and exhibition space. This Saturday, they go black despite the blinding sunshine and transform the spaces of Pikszis into a market. Thirteen Hungarian designers and artists bring their darkest creations, including graphics, illustrations, clothes jewellery, and ceramics. Meanwhile, you can also view their current exhibition 'Off the Skin', which perfectly fits into the theme through its striking black visuals.
More details here.
Dance House at the Hungarian Heritage House
A dance house is a very traditional yet casual Hungarian event, where folk musicians play jolly, fast-paced songs, and professional dancers teach visitors a few easy steps. Everyone can then dance together in a huge circle. It's easy and loads of fun. Experience it for yourself on March 2nd at the Hungarian Heritage House.
Get tickets for the dance house here and for an additional course here.
Sunday, 3 March
Sunday Markets
If you like to start your day amidst fresh local produce, flowers, pastries, ham, jam, and juices, head to Budapest's most famous ruin bar. Szimpla Kert will welcome you with a vibrant farmers' market, friendly locals, and a hearty breakfast on the first floor.
Alternatively, if you're more into plants, Lumen is the place for you! The 8th district café awaits with lush house plants.
Gardrób Second-hand Clothing Fair
Are you all in for sustainability? On March 3rd (between 10 am and 2 pm), at the ELTE Hall, join the mission to save the planet by refreshing your wardrobe with someone else's banished clothes. It could be that what someone else has cast aside will become your spring favourite.
More details here.
Pankastic! at Budapest Jazz Club
Experience the fusion of Manouche swing and pop melodies at Budapest's epicentre of local live music, Budapest Jazz Club. Hungarian band Pankastic! will take the stage with a light yet explosively energetic performance.
Get tickets here.
