House Party at Gólya
Dive into one of the 8th district's favourite alternative pubs Gólya, which is kicking off the new year with a house party on 9th January. What's on the cards? Gólya regulars will be stirring things up on the mic, with instruments in hand, and from behind the DJ decks. Entry is free, the crowd promises to be eclectic, and the Kőbányai beer is endless.
Details here
Feminine Energies Exhibition: Hanna Rédling, Mari Ornella and Rebeka Mór
Art lovers, attention! From 9th January, you can peek into the unique artistic worlds of three Hungarian artists, Hanna Rédling, Mari Ornella, and Rebeka Mór. The Feminine Energies exhibition will be hosted at Turbina, and you can expect an array of emotions and personal narratives. Their raw, playful, and provocative works blend nostalgia and surrealism with documentary-style honesty. The pieces explore themes of growing up, memory, and childhood, evoking the melancholy of lost moments and the intensity of the present.
The opening is on 9th January, and after that, you can catch the exhibition from 10th January to 15th February.
Details here
English Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic
The Hot Paprika Comedy crew regularly hosts English-language comedy nights with an international lineup of performers and audience members. On 14th January, they're switching it up with an open mic night at Hoff House in downtown Budapest. Whether you want to take the stage or just enjoy the show, it's bound to be a fun evening. Arrive early to snag the best seats! Entry is free, but donations are always appreciated.
Details here
Szotyi and Misishock at Telep
Telep, right at the entrance of the party district, is a go-to spot, whether you're up for after-work drinks, second-hand markets, or live gigs. On 16t January, it's all about the latter, with soul-lifting beats from local duo Szotyi and Misishock. Raise a glass to the new year or toast a farewell to the last one – good vibes are guaranteed.
Details here
Matka ArtSpace Opening
On 17th January, a new art space is set to open its doors in Budapest, housed in a downtown apartment. The Matka ArtSpace launch event (running until 19th January) doubles as a unique apartment exhibition and fair, aimed at promoting contemporary artists and creators. You can explore works by painters, sculptors, jewellers, designers, and ceramicists while sipping wine and enjoying slam poetry. Check out the list of featured artists here!
Details here
Chinese New Year Festival
On the weekend of 18–19th January, Chinatown Budapest (around the Monori Center in Budapest's 10th district) transforms into a vibrant celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year as we welcome the Year of the Snake. Two cultural delegations from China will join the festivities, showcasing their traditions through performances and workshops. Expect Beijing opera, folk dances, circus acts, Monkey King kung fu, and live music. You can also enjoy dragon dances, participate in tea ceremonies, make dumplings, or try on a hanfu outfit. Entry and parking are free, but tickets are required for tea tastings and workshops.
Details here
The Musicians of Tomorrow
Here's a brilliant way to get to know and support the next generation of musicians. On 23rd January, the talented instrumental students from the Bartók Conservatory's junior department will perform at the stuning House of Music Hungary in the City Park. As part of The Musicians of Tomorrow series, this event offers a platform for promising young talents – mainly music school students – to showcase their skills in shorter concerts held in communal spaces. This January Thursday promises to be no exception, and best of all, it's free to attend!
Details here (Hungarian only)
(Cover photo: Kata Major - We Love Budapest)
