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, 30 August
Moto pizza opening Party
If you like Neapolitan pizzas, try Budapest's MOTO with its new unit opening at Oktogon (on the corner of Andrássy út and Eötvös utca). From August 30th to 31st, you can celebrate the new location in style – with a DJ set, natural wines, and two new pizzas created specifically for this occasion. Alongside all the deliciousness, there will be new merchandise available, which you can grab during the two-day opening.
Details here
24-hour Walk Against Climate Change
Are you ready for a challenge? Join the team of 24 The Planet in a nonstop 24-hour walk (starting at 4 pm) to raise funds for combating global climate change. Their work has evolved into a global movement, and this year, Budapest is joining Amsterdam and New York as a new location. The concept is straightforward: participants, backed by friends and family, walk continuously for 24 hours in the City Park to raise funds and awareness for the battle against climate change. All proceeds are donated to Justdiggit, an NGO dedicated to regreening dry and degraded land in Africa to cool down the planet. Pop in for an hour or stay for the full 24 – good vibes are guaranteed.
Details here and tickets here.
Night of Zoos 2024
Roam the Budapest Zoo just before midnight and witness animals in their nighttime routines. The 'Night of Zoos' features extended opening hours and special activities across the country. At the Budapest Zoo, you can enjoy a sea lion show in the illuminated pool, watch divers swim with sharks, observe lions being fed, and learn about the training of elephants. It's a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a whole new light.
Fran Palermo Concert
Bakáts Festival in Budapest's 8th district (look for the church on Bakáts tér!) is an annual tradition. And one that's worth remembering, because it comes with three days of free events, including concerts. On Friday, kicking off the festival (which lasts until September 1st), the Hungarian alternative band Fran Palermo takes the stage at 8:45 pm.
Details here.
Saturday, 31 August
Morning Yoga with a view
Start your Saturday – and end your summer – with a morning flow at a very special location; on top of Budapest's iconic landmark, the Tunnel! Here, you can salute the sun and give your body a good stretch while admiring the Chain Bridge, the Danube, and the Gresham Palace. Roll out your mat (bring your own or message the teacher if you'd rent one) and enjoy a 70-minute session, where all levels are welcome.
The class costs HUF 4,000, you can sign up by sending a message to yogabrunchbudapest@gmail.com.
Details here.
Budapest Central European Fashion Week
Fashionistas, you simply can't miss this year's Budapest Central European Fashion Week, running from August 26th to September 1st, but with open-for-all events on Saturday and Sunday. These days are brimming with catwalk shows presenting cutting-edge creations by local and international designers. The spotlight is on new generational talents, regional collaborations, and consciousness.
Details and tickets here.
Sm0g Z0ne vol.3 – Vintage fair
Browse through a curated selection of vintage clothing and jewellery on Saturday at the underground concert venue Dürer Kert. And it's not only about shopping! You can join workshops, groove to DJ sets, and even get a tattoo. This event is a perfect opportunity to spend your Saturday in a nature-filled location away from the bustle of downtown. You can easily get there by bike, and good vibes are guaranteed!
Details here.
Bartók Festival
Újbuda's Bartók Quarter is a vibrant, gallery- and café-lined neighbourhood. It's not your typical tourist destination, making it all the more special. And if you are up for getting a taste of its lovable vibes, be sure to visit on August 31st for Bartók Fest. You’ll find something to enjoy all day long with 40 events spread across Szent Gellért tér and Műegyetem rakpart. Activities range from fun for children to a live performance by Co Lee.
Details here.
Budapest Festival Orchestra – Free concert for Peace
Iván Fischer and the Budapest Festival Orchestra are bringing the city together for a free open-air concert at Heroes' Square on August 31st. The 'Concert for Peace" uses the power of music to promote peace, respect, friendship, and love. The program features works by Bach, Mahler, and two contemporary composers. Joining the musicians are guest artists from Ukraine, Russia, Israel, and Palestine, showing that music can break down barriers and bring people closer together.
Details here.
Sunday, 1 September
Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience
This is the last weekend you can visit a visual exhibition like no other: one of the world's most popular multimedia art exhibitions is closing its Budapest display in a couple of days. But until September 1st, you can immerse yourself in Van Gogh's art: spanning two thousand square meters across multiple rooms, you'll be amazed as you step into the most iconic paintings of the Dutch master. No typo there; you will actually step into them, immersing yourself in pure art while gaining unique insights into the painter's life along the way.
Read more and have a sneak peek here. Tickets here.
Board Game Day on the riverside
On Pest's car-free embankment, a board game club is popping up this Sunday, welcoming anyone for a round or two (for free). Don't think Monopoly at a dingy underground bar! This day (5 pm - 9 pm) will be about new-wave games, including several English-language ones, played alfresco. Come with a group of friends, your bestie, or alone, you will find something that suits you: party games or brainy ones, games about sushi, the Mars...you get the idea.
Details here.
Chinatown – Street Food Night Market
If you are a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine, visiting Budapest's Chinatown is a must. What's special about it during the summer is that they have their terrace open, offering food and tables al fresco (every day between 5 pm and 11 pm). This weekend is your last chance to grab a bite here though, so pick wisely: laid out is Chinese street food at its best like 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.
(Cover photo: Kata Major - We Love Budapest)
