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, 11 October
Margó Festival of Literature 2024
Margó Festival, one of Hungary's most important literary events, kicked off on Thursday, bringing together authors, writers, poets, and literature lovers under one roof. With public readings, panel discussions, debates, and lectures spanning four days (October 10-13), it's a feast for the mind. Alongside contemporary Hungarian authors, the autumn festival also highlights contemporary writers from around the world . This year, you can attend talks with Finish Sofi Oksanen (in English), and Spanish Irene Solà (in Spanish), Slovakian Silvester Lavrík (in Slovakian), and Crotian Ivana Bodrožić (in English), among others. Plus, you can enjoy live concerts throughout the festival.
Details here.
Drone show featuring the Liberty statue
One of the city's most iconic landmarks, the Liberty Statue, is coming to life with the help of technology. On October 11th, a spectacular drone show will temporarily 'free' the Liberty Statue from its scaffolding prison (as it's being renovated). The best spot to catch this dazzling aerial display is Fővám tér, where you can enjoy the show with a musical backdrop, making the experience even more unforgettable. The show kicks off at 7:30 pm.
Details here.
Liszt Fest 2024
Paying homage to Ferenc Liszt, a famous Hungarian composer having his 213th birthday anniversary this year, Liszt Fest showcases prominent artists and the latest works from both the Hungarian and international arts scenes. Expect an array of large-scale concerts, including classical and contemporary chamber music, choir performances, pop and jazz shows, dance productions, literary and visual art events, as well as open-air performances, taking place in Budapest's leading cultural venues and various locations throughout the city. This weekend, catch a new performance by contemporary circus company Recirquel, an orchestral concert, or the piano concert of Francesco Tristano.
Details here.
Budapest Design Week
Budapest Design Week, one of the biggest design events in Hungary, is taking place from October 10th to 20th in several locations across town. It's for all creatives and wannabes, professionals and enthusiasts. Feast your eyes at the Art Market Budapest, browse designer products at the Fiksz Design Art Fair at the Petőfi Literary Museum, or make a florarium at Turbina Cultural Centre!
Details here.
Saturday, 12 October
Chimney Cake Festival
From October 11th to 13th, the Chimney Cake Festival returns to the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden. Taste a wide variety of chimney cakes, with 13 stalls to choose from. Between enjoying two delicious treats, multiple stages will offer children's performances, concerts, craft workshops, and other exciting programs.
Details here.
Szemrevaló Film Festival
If you speak German (or Hungarian), and also love contemporary German, Swiss, and Austrian cinema, don't miss out on Szemreveló (Sehenswert) Film Festival! From October 10th to 20th, you can catch 11 new releases at Budapest's Művész Cinema, along with six audience meet-and-greet sessions. Many of the films have literary connections or are directed by women. On Saturday, you can watch Franky Five Star, plus Jacob's Horse, the film by a Hungarian-born director Katalin Gödrös. Check out the full programme here by clicking on the days.
The films will be screened in German with Hungarian subtitles.
Slow Zone at Turbina
The 8th district cultural centre Turbina is hosting yet another cool – not to mention free – event. This time, starting at 3 pm, you can practise the art of slowing down. But worry not, you don't have to sit alone in silence, instead, you can try to get in a meditative flow through an exhibition, acoustic concert, board game, yoga class, or even a linocut workshop. Sign up here for the latter.
Details here.
Sunday, 13 October
Budaro Designers' Market
Bartók Béla út and its surroundings are a vibrant neighbourhood worth exploring. Now even more, as in September, a new designer fair series kicked off, called Budaro. Their upcoming event will be held at Hadik Café + Szatyor Bar and Gallery on October 13th, and you can be sure to get spoiled with beautiful items made by local designers. Whether you're after a nice gift for someone or a memory for yourself, Budaro will get you covered.
Details here.
WAMP Design Market - Birthday Bash
Here's another treat for the lovers of local designer goodies! WAMP Design Market is celebrating its 18th birthday this Sunday at Eiffel Art Studios, which means some extra special activities for you. Besides the chance to browse unique, small-batch creations, ranging from clothing, jewellery, and accessories to home decor, photography, and even gourmet treats, you can also join a raffle, workshops, and a food truck show.
Details here.
Redjet Speedboat Tour x Relax Terrace
If you’re after a unique experience in Budapest and don’t mind a bit of an adrenaline rush, sign up for an extreme speedboat tour ! Organised by the Redjet team, you’ll hop on a boat at the riverside park and dam, Kopaszi gát, and speed along the Danube, catching sights of the city's iconic landmarks . After the ride, stick around for the Relax Terrace , where you can soak in a jacuzzi , detox in a sauna, and unwind with a delicious drink in hand. Whether you're with family or a group of friends, it’s sure to be a day to remember!
Details and bookings here.
(Cover photo: Milán Medgyesi - We Love Budapest)
