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 August
Reading Picnic
Take over the park at II. János Pál pápa tér with blankets, books, and the team of Kastner Kommunity. The 8th district art space and café came up with a super cool concept: bring along an interesting book of your choice and just read. You will have the opportunity to talk about your reading experiences at the end, but for a short period, you can get lost in your book and the sounds around you. Expect some snacks and good conversations – the bar is open for drinks and loo breaks! The event is free but you need to sign up.
Details here
Sziget Festival 2024
Sziget Festival is in full swing by now, and you can peek into the first day here. The good news is that if you don't want to miss out on the region's biggest music festival, you can still snag tickets. And it's worth it! This time of the year, Óbudai Island is filled with spectacular shows, circuses, workshops, concerts, and a buzzing international crowd. On Friday, catch Liam Gallagher and Stormzy, and on Saturday, dance the night away with Martin Garrix and Louis Tomlinson, while on Sunday Janelle Monáe and Sam Smith will step on the stage. On Monday, Fred again.. and Skrillex will leave you with a memorable endgame.
Details here
Northern Vibes – Tap Takeover at Hopaholic
Hopaholic craft beer bar, nestled in the party district, is putting guest beers on tap until August 18th. That means you can sip brews by brilliant breweries from 5 countries, transporting you to the Nordics. The selection includes the Danish WarPigs, the Finish Tuju, and the Swedish Stigbergets.
Details here
The Acoustic Manual Techno Party
If you'd follow in the footsteps of locals, gear up, because this Friday, the alternative bar Gólya is hosting an unusual techno party. The setup will be out of the ordinary, as DJs will be replaced by jazz musicians. The entry fee is HUF 3,000 to be paid in cash.
Details here
Saturday, 10 August
Downtown Flea Market on Madách tér
If you like browsing through vintage and second-hand finds, this flea market is for you! On August 10th, head to the gate of Budapest's Jewish district, Madách tér, and let the hunt begin. The market will be open from midday to 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to both shop and then grab coffee or toast with spritzers at one of the surrounding bars.
Details here.
Weekend Comedy Showcase
If you're up for some laughter and good vibes, mark your calendar for Hot Paprika Comedy's weekend showcase! Hosted at the A&O Hostel Budapest in the 7th district, this show promises a carefully curated lineup, a cheerful crowd, and some true belly laughs. It's also free, but a donation is welcome (HUF 1,000 is the minimum sum recommended).
Details here
NightRide – Budapest by bike
If you're up for a laidback and collective bicycle ride while admiring the illuminated city, join the NightRide team on August 10th. Kicking off at 9 pm on Szabadság tér (the meeting point is at the Ronal Reagan statue), you can cycle approximately 30 kilometres on the streets of Budapest, finishing the tour at Batthyány tér (at around 1 am). Arrive on a bike (that has headlights), pack some snacks and drinks, and get ready for a nighttime adventure with fellow cyclists. The event is free, children over 10 are also welcome.
Details here (Hungarian-only)
Queer Pop Party at Toldi
Toldi is a multifunctional spot near the Basilica; a cool mixture of cinema, bar, and club. On August 10th, you can put its latter function to the test at a queer pop party, where you can expect nothing less than sing-along songs and non-stop dancing. Doors open at 11 pm and don't close until 5 am.
Details here
Sunday,11 August
Hummus Week
If you like Middle-Eastern flavours and good drinks, Mazel Tov is an unmissable spot in Budapest's 7th district. What's more, they are putting hummus at the centre of attention until August 13th. So attention chickpea lovers! It's time to book a table at the chic restaurant and prepare for flavoursome beetroot, carrot, and celery versions!
Details here
Wekerle Flea Market and Crafts Fair
In Budapest, there's a suburban area that resembles a fairy tale setting, Wekerletelep. It boasts Art Nouveau buildings with a Hungarian folk-style twist. On August 11th (9 am - 1 pm), you can enter this charming neighbourhood as the Wekerle Piac hosts a flea market, where you can hunt for treasures like a local. Get your hands on books, toys, kitchen utensils, clothes, jewellery, and other treasures!
Details here (Hungarian-only)
Chinatown Terrace – Street Food Night Market
If you are a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine, visiting Budapest's Chinatown is a must. They have opened their terrace for the season, offering food and tables al fresco (every day between 5 pm and 11 pm). Laid out is Chinese street food at its best: pancake, dim sum, teppanyaki, oden, Cantonese curry, rice noodle roll, shaved ice, tong sui, and other special treats you can hardly find anywhere else in the city. Find more food recommendations here.
Details here
(Cover photo: Norbert Hartyányi - We Love Budapest)
