From Cuban beats to jazz concerts, exhibitions, and the festive Christmas tram – here’s your guide to the best free events in Budapest this month.

La Movida Concert

If you're craving a little slice of summer in the middle of winter, mark December 11th and 18th on your calendar and pop into downtown bar Fröccsterasz! That's when La Movida Cuba is bringing their vibrant tunes to town, filling the cosy, heated venue with authentic Havana vibes starting at 7 pm. Think dancing, cocktails, and maybe even a mulled wine or hot chocolate to keep the festive spirit alive.

Details here.

Imre Bukta exhibition

Head to artsy Bartók Béla út and get to know a Hungarian artist and rural Hungary at the current exhibition at Godot Gallery! Showcasing the latest works of Imre Bukta, the exhibition is open until 14th December – and it's well worth a visit. Bukta's paper-based pieces and oil paintings evoke scenes of rural Hungarian life, but his artistry goes far beyond simple genre painting. His motifs have become more refined, imbuing ordinary village scenes with a sense of spiritual elevation, transforming the everyday into something profoundly artistic.

The exhibition is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 2 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm.

Details here.

Fashion Photography exhibition

If you're into fashion, this exhibition is for you! Set up at the foot of the Buda Castle at the Virág Benedek House, this display showcases vintage fashion photos from the previous decades, all captured in this historic neighbourhood. No wonder District I has long been regarded as a hub of fashion photography, with the Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle, and the Royal Palace among its gems, not to mention stunning views. The exhibition features a rich selection of fashion photographs shot in the district, along with the clothing and accessories showcased in the images. 

The exhibition is open until 15th February.

Details here.

Jazz Jams at Budapest Jazz Club

Every weekend, Újlipótváros's iconic live music spot Budapest Jazz Club transforms into a playground for the country's top musicians. In spontaneous line-ups, they deliver pure musical joy – and the best part? No ticket is needed to enjoy these jam sessions! Expect the unexpected: over the years, surprise appearances by global stars and hobby musicians from all over the world have joined in, jamming alongside authentic bebop trios.

Details here.

0036mark – „It belongs in a museum″ exhibition

If you're into street art and cartoons, you'll love 0036mark's latest exhibition at KÉPEZŐ Gallery. A key figure in Hungary's street art scene, this anonymous artist often blends iconic characters from old Hungarian animations with international pop culture elements. Titled “It Belongs in a Museum” – a nod to Indiana Jones's famous line – the exhibition explores the place of graffiti and street art in contemporary art while questioning museum practices and highlighting the value of street art as a cultural force.

Visit the exhibition between 6th December and 7th February.

Details here.

 +1 Christmas tram and other festive rides

The Christmas Fleet has officially set off on its festive rounds on 2nd December, so keep an eye out for the dazzling, lit-up vehicles cruising through the city! From Christmas trams to Santa trolleys, these twinkling rides bring extra cheer to your daily travels. While standard public transport fares apply, those with a Budapest Pass or ticket can hop aboard at no extra cost.

Details here and timetable here.

(Cover photo: Kőrösi Tamás - We Love Budapest)

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