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, 16 May

Chimney Cake Festival at the Zoo

Celebrating this unmissable Hungarian classicChimney Cake Festival not only offers the chance to taste various flavours of kürtőskalács but also to visit the residents of the Budapest Zoo. From  16-18 May, a full-on festival pops up inside the Zoo, where you can sample several versions of the dessert, whether a classic or one filled with exciting creams. The event offers something for all ages: think family and animal-themed experiences, creative craft activities, fun games, and atmospheric concerts. All programs are included with zoo admission.

Details here

Hello Margit! festival

Hello Margit! festival is a brand new artsy festival in the beloved – and not yet touristy! – Margit Quarter. And it's spoiling us with a series of events from 15-18 May: nearly 50 venues will host more than 100 programs, some of which can be attended for free. You should check out  Pezsgő ( Sparkling) Margit, a series of exhibition openings and, yes, toasts. Join a picnic, followed by a concert of the  Danubia Orchestra, or sign up for a Sofar Sounds Budapest session. Explore local designer shops, like Alapdarab, CAKO, Dugattyús x Kamay Ko, MUMU, NOS, or ViktoriaBolla – where you can collect stamps for gifts and claim discounts.

Details here

Solinfo Garage Sale

Spring is in the air, and  Solinfo Group’s showrooms and stores are getting a fresh new look. To make space for the latest collections and exciting new arrivals, they’re completely clearing out their warehouses.  From 15 to 17 May, don’t miss their highly anticipated garage sale, where you can snap up unique showroom pieces, designer and technical lamps, stylish furniture, and cosy rugs  — all at seriously discounted prices.  And that’s not all! Home of Solinfo is joining the fun too, offering a treasure trove of chic design accessories for just a fraction of their original price.

Details here

Canto di Mare – Kamay Ko Collection Launch Party

Playful and vibrant Hungarian brand,  Kamay Ko, is about to launch its summer collection, and you can be part of it! In the city's new fave spot,  Dugattyús, a magical journey begins to the  Italian seaside, where sunlit waves meet the mysterious beauty of mythology. Inspired by the enchanting world of sirens, these pieces celebrate women who embody freedom, allure, and a touch of magic. Expect a blend of flowing summer fabrics with deep-sea hues in perfect harmony. On  May 16, you'll be the first to discover and shop the latest pieces from the collection,  Canto di Mare. All while music, drinks, and summer vibes are flowing.

Details here

Saturday, 17 May

Hummus Week at Dobrumba

In celebration of International Hummus Day, hip Middle-Eastern eatery Dobrumba is going all in with its hummus selection. While this dish has a fixed place here every day of the year, during this week-long celebration (12-18 May), you can taste three special variations too. That includes hummus & 'shrooms, lamb köfte – a true Rumba classic, where spiced lamb pairs perfectly with silky-smooth hummus, and an all-green salad

Book a table here.

Open Breweries Night

Got a thing for craft beer? Mark 17 May in your calendar – Open Breweries Day is coming! It’s your chance to peek behind the scenes and check out how some awesome beers are made with free brewery tours. Even though it’s happening all over the country, we’re zooming in on Budapest. Here, Horizont Brewing and Monyo Brewing Co., both in Budapest's 10th district, are opening their doors for multiple tours – if you wanna join, better sign up fast! And stick around after the tours – you can taste and buy local beers too.

Details here

Night of Art Cinemas

Five cinemas and a night filled with 70 fantastic films – what more could a movie lover ask for? From thought-provoking Hungarian dramas to international favourites, it’s all happening in one unforgettable evening! On 17 MayMűvészPuskinToldiKino, and Tabán cinemas throw open their doors for an all-night movie marathon. Grab a single wristband (at the cinemas or here for HUF 6,200), and you’re free to hop between screenings until sunrise.

Films will be screened in their original language or with English subtitles.

Full programme here.

Sunday, 18 May

Makers' Market at Fény utca Market

If you'd stock up on unique gifts, while getting to know local designers and having a blast, Makers' Market is the place to be. On 18 May, more than eighty talented makers will come together at Fény utca Market (yep, a proper market) to shower you with their creations, from jewellery and ceramics to clothing, bags, accessories, prints, home décor, and artisanal treats. As a bonus, amazing DJ sets will keep the vibe just right.

Read more on the market here.

'Treasures of the Gallery' – Guided Tour on International Museum Day

International Museum Day is the perfect excuse to visit the  Hungarian National Gallery, where a special guided tour has been put together just for the occasion. Led in English, the tour takes you through a rich timeline of  Hungarian and international fine art, featuring highlights from artists like  Mihály Munkácsy, Pál Szinyei Merse, Dóra Maurer, Simon Hantai, Judit Reigl, and more. The one-hour tour covers everything from Gothic winged altarpieces to striking twentieth-century works.

Details here

Sunset Ecstatic & Yoga Dance at The Private Rooftop

Ecstatic dance offers the chance to experience the joy of movement in a free and safe environment – all on an incredibly cool rooftop. On 18 May, a gentle yoga session will ease you into the right mindset before you fully surrender to the rhythm. Accompanied by a live DJ set evoking the tribal sounds of the Asian jungle, this event is here to prove you don't need alcohol to get lost in the beat. You don't even need yoga gear – just come as you are and embrace dancing. The event takes place in a covered space, but if the weather is good, the rooftop opens up, showering you with stunning views.

To sign up, email yogabrunchbudapest@gmail.com

Details here

(Cover photo: Milán Medgyesi - We Love Budapest)

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