What is farsang?
Carnival season, or farsang as Hungarians call it, is the colourful festive period after Christmas. It's a time for merriment and revelry before Lent begins. It combines Christian traditions and old pagan rituals to bid farewell to winter and welcome spring. Though farsang officially starts on 6 January, the main celebrations happen around the end, which Hungarians call 'farsang farka' ('the tail of farsang'). This period, changing dates each year depending on the dates of Easter now falls on 27 February - 1 March. Read more on farsang here.
Farsang traditions
In Hungary, the main farsang event undoubtedly is the Busójárás, which UNESCO recognises as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. In the southern part of the country, a city called Mohács, men run around in scary wooden masks with big teeth and horns, dressed in furry sheep's skin, making loud noises to scare winter away. If you are curious to experience this unique tradition, you can do so from 27 February to 4 March. Just hop on a direct bus at Népliget bus station – watch out for the ones with zero transfer (at 7:05 am, 9:05 am, 13:05 pm). Plan your journey here.
Where to celebrate in Budapest
You'd rather stay in Budapest? We totally get it. Luckily, there’s no shortage of events to keep you in the farsang spirit this weekend. For a foodie adventure in the Buda Hills, head to the local favourite Hello Buda, where you can indulge in doughnuts by top-notch bakery VAJ, freshly roasted pig, and other feast-worthy delicacies. More in the mood for wine? Otthonka is the place to be, with several wineries pouring their best bottles to the smooth sounds of Bossa Nova and jazz. If folklore is calling, make your way to Fonó, where the Dresch String Quartet will have you dancing in no time. Feeling fancy? Mystery Hotel Budapest is hosting its own Venice Carnival. Prefer something more laidback? Try Turbina. And if you're after an underground vibe, Gólya has you covered. Costumes are highly recommended at every spot.
Where to eat doughnut
Doughnuts are a must during Hungarian carnival season – so go ahead, and treat yourself in the name of tradition! Pay your respects to the sweetest customs at Pampushka, The Box Donut, Badass Coffee & Donut, or Bomboloni by Panificio il Basilicoi for something sugary, glazed, filled, and fluffy.
(Cover photo: Gretchen Kessler - We Love Budapest)
