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, 19 July

Hungarian Grand Prix 2024

F1 races are zooming back to Hungary, and you can still snag tickets for Friday and Saturday. Alternatively, you can join live broadcast events at several pubs across Budapest, then stay for champagne and afterparties.

More details here.

La Traviata at the Opera House

If you'd immerse yourself in culture, book a ticket to Guiseppe Verdi's brilliant opera, La TraviataThe fallen woman. It will be performed at the stunning Hungarian State Opera, meaning you can not only peek into the sparkling and champagne-filled life of the 'lady of the camellias' in two parts and three acts but also admire the gorgeous architecture of the building.

The performance features the Hungarian State Opera Orchestra and Chorus, as well as students of the Hungarian Dance University and the Hungarian National Ballet Institute. It is in Italian, with Hungarian, English, and Italian subtitles.

Get tickets here.

Disney Show at the Music Fountain

When strolling on Margaret Island, don't miss the magical Music Fountain on the island's southern end near Margaret Bridge! With water jets shooting ten metres high, this family-friendly attraction plays popular tunes from morning until nightfall, accompanied by a light show and film projections to entertain passers-by. Soon, a special show will light up the evenings: Disney's 'Summer of Stories' will transport you to a world of adventures and magic. Be among the first to experience it: starting July 19th, you can catch well-known tunes every Friday and Saturday at 9:15 pm until August 24th.

'90s and '00s party at A38 Ship

Britney Spears, Pink, Christina Aguilera, Snoop Dog, Shakira, The Pussycat Dolls, Lady Gaga – just a few names of the artists who shaped the music scene of the '90s and '00s. If you're ready to dive headfirst into nostalgia, set off to one of Budapest's most unique party spots: the terrace of the stationary boat, A38

Get tickets here.

Saturday, 20 July

MOME Design Fair

Visit the design fair of the Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design and browse a huge array of unique products made by the students. We mean prints, ceramics, fashion accessories, and many other handmade goods laid out at the Miksa Róth Memorial House's garden (near Keleti Railway Station) on July 20th. Expect mini-festival vibes, complete with live music, DJ sets, workshops, and short movie screenings.

More details here.

Chimney Cake Weekend – Foundue Variations

Édes Mackó (Sweet Bear) is an adorable spot in the City Park where you can try the Hungarian delicacy chimney cake (kürtőskalács in Hungarian: a sweet, caramelised spit cake rolled in granulated sugar or cinnamon). This shop offers some truly unique variations, but this weekend (July 20th and 21st), they are upping the game even further. You can try the dessert cut into smaller pieces and dipped into various toppings. Besides the classic flavours, you can opt for raspberry, citrus, or even pistachio.

More details here

The Night of Circus

If you're a fan of circus art, adrenaline-pumping dance, acrobatic performances, and entertaining shows, the Capital Circus of Budapest is a must-see! Get tickets for the 7 pm performance on July 20th, and you'll be treated to an extra 90-minute show in celebration of the Night of Circus. The current performance, Stars – Like Pins on the Sky, is a lavish super-concert with choreographed acts and dancers giving new interpretations and dimensions to the best Hungarian and world hits!

Get tickets here – or for other shows here.

Ed Sheeran Concert

As part of the tour of his sixth and seventh albums, Ed Sheeran gives his first solo concert in Budapest on July 20th at the Puskás Arena. One of the most popular singer-songwriters of recent times, Sheeran has not toured since 2019, but he released two albums last year, so those who have already seen him at the Sziget Festival five years ago will have plenty of new material to enjoy.

Get tickets here.

Sunday, 21 July

Yoga Flow and Vegan Lunch

To all yogis out there! In Buda's artsy neighbourhood, close to Kelet Café, Temple.hu yoga studio awaits with a special event! On July 21st, you can not only practise asanas with professional guidance but also stay for a healthy lunch. Vegan chef Miklós Kovács will treat you to delicious bites, and you can also join a tea ceremony, sound bath, and arts and crafts fair.

 Sign up here

Hungarian Bride – Exhibition

If you're looking to escape the heat – and don't mind culturing up while at it –, head to the Hungarian National Museum, only steps away from Kálvin tér! Here, you can immerse yourself in dazzling bridal gowns and enchanting love stories from the past 500 centuries. Feast your eyes on beautiful dresses and accessories (some of which you can even try on) and learn about the evolving role of women in marriage. (x)

More details here.

Paolo Nutini Concert

The British singer Paolo Nutini is about to melt hearts in Budapest with his emotional songs. The prodigy, who, at just 18 years old, has signed a five-album deal with Atlantic Records, steps on the stage in downtown Akvárium Klub on July 21st.

Get tickets here.

(Cover photo: Norbert Hartyányi - We Love Budapest)

Tags