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, 10 May
The 13th Studio Opening
If you are into Hungarian fashion, head downtown and be among the first to celebrate this new showroom featuring up-and-coming designers. The 13th Studio is swinging its doors open on May 10th, with cakes, toasts, and an array of beautiful pieces.
More details here.
Festival of Abnormal Music
Join the FAM and immerse yourself in a multi-genre alternative festival, shining a spotlight on authentic, uncompromising musical acts. From May 8th to 11th, local hangouts, such as Turbina, Gödör, Auróra, Gólya, Dobozi 21, Blutorange, Susuka, and Népszíntér host 26 bands and DJs from Hungary, Belgrade, Ankara and Tokyo. The event transcends borders between established musical styles, subcultures, and social circles, showcasing diverse forms of music such as heavy psychedelic rock, avant-garde jazz, experimental electronics, math rock, or synth punk.
More details and tickets here.
Free concert: DJ Bootsie Quartet
Catch this unique – and free - concert at Városháza Park (only steps away from Deák Ferenc tér)! As part of the Budapest Spring Festival, DJ Bootsie, a pioneer of Hungarian instrumental hip-hop and bass music, masterfully blends electronic, hip-hop, bass, scratch, movie, folk, classical music and jazz, is stepping on stage. On May 10th, he'll be presenting Bartokosmos, made up entirely of individually re-composed transcriptions of works by renowned Hungarian composer Béla Bartók.
More details here.
Saturday, 11 May
Budapest100 Open House Festival
Mark your calendars for May 11th and 12th, because for one weekend only, you'll have a rare opportunity to explore 36 buildings not typically open to the public. From housing estates and research centres to universities and even a funeral home, this year's Budapest100 promises a fascinating architectural journey.
Spanish food fiesta
Fans of Spanish gastronomy, this is your call. Between May 9th and 11th, downtown outdoor spot Botellón is bringing a thematic event, offering treats from the best tapas bars in the city (Tapas Fino, Pintxo, Bontxo). Expect gambas, croquetas, patatas bravas, and all the other mouthwatering bites Hispania is famous for, washed down with ice-cold sangría. Live music by Dos Coyotes will liven up the party every day from 6 pm.
More details here.
BABEL – Dance Performance
If you're seeking an impressive dance performance, BABEL, featuring artists from the Eva Duda Dance Company, will float your boat. On May 11th, the auditorium of the National Dance Theatre will be transformed into an eclectic world depicting expressive images and moments through self-irony and humour. The performance aims to capture the emotional state of individuals and communities facing the social challenges of the 21st century.
More details and tickets here.
PULP Open Air Club Opening in the City Park
Pulp Budapest Open Air, a series of free outdoor parties and electronic music events, is kicking off its season in the City Park. Expect sunshine and the hottest groove vibes with three performers taking the stage: Falcao from LavaLava & Drumboy, Daniel Moritz, and Florentin (Pulp). Come chill, dance, and even sip on French wine.
More details here .
Sunday, 12 May
CHIMNEY CAKE FROLIC AT THE ZOO
Chimney cake (kürtőskalács) is a Hungarian dessert you wouldn't want to miss. And this weekend (May 11-12th), you can combine tasting this sweet treat with visiting the residents of Budapest Zoo, as a festival pops up inside the Gardens. Sample unique versions of the dessert, such as bejglibon – mixing the best of chimney cake and the walnut/poppyseed-based Christmas dessert bejgli. Access the festival with the Zoo's standard ticket.
More details here. Tickets here.
Makers' Market
Makers' Market Budapest is a monthly fair where you can get your hands on contemporary, artsy and designer products made by Hungarian designers. You can also engage in conversations with the creators and learn more about the items, which also make a beautiful souvenir. Their upcoming event is this Sunday (10 am - 5 pm) at downtown MOST Bistro, where you can not only browse but also enjoy a hearty brunch and delicious snacks.
More details here.
Sunset Rooftop Yoga
Sunday afternoons are for unwinding. If you agree, sign up for Yoga Brunch's rooftop yoga class and enjoy both the beneficial effects of yoga and the stunning views of a spring sunset. On May 12th, you can practice a 90-minute yin-yang session backdropped by the City Park and its iconic hot air balloon. All levels are welcome, but bring a mat if you can (renting one is also an option). The class price is HUF 5,000, and you can sign up by emailing yogabrunchbudapest@gmail.com.
More details here.
