You’d expect a city that has a world-renowned festival every single season to have perfected the art of putting on a good party so this October all you culture connoisseurs don’t hesitate to take a well deserved break and head to the Budapest Autumn Festival.
Between the 8th and 17th October, Hungary’s capital city transforms itself into the epicentre of culture with exhibitions of contemporary art, live music, theatre and dance performances and film, photography, fashion and computer art displays. Venues all over the city get involved including theatres, cinemas, art studios, city squares and the windows of shopping malls, shopping centres and supermarkets in Budapest’s busiest malls so it doesn’t matter where you’re staying, you can join in the festivities any day.
Experience festival-time in Hungary
The event organisers’ aim is to ‘raise people’s spirits’, possible because everyone starts to realise that winter is setting in and we all need a pick-me-up! Acts from more than 12 countries will be heading to the capital to cheer up the locals and tourists alike including many prominent music ensembles and modern groups. Les Percussions de Strasbourg are taking to the stage on the 8th October to provide hours of excitement with over 400 different musical instruments at the Thalia Theatre whilst later in the week the more progressive New Music Studio will be performing at Millenáris Teátrum with the New Hungarian Music Society for a concert you’ll never forget. If you prefer something a little more energetic, four of the world’s top contemporary dancers from sasha waltz & guests and Les Ballets C. de la B are performing their new production, D’avant, at the Madách Theatre on the 10th October where they will not only dance but also provide all the live background music for the evening with their own voices. Kris Verdonck’s puppet-like dance production would make a fantastic evening out on your city break, as would the amazing acrobatic talents of dancer Ferenc Fehér on the 15th October at the Thalia Theatre.
If you’re heading to Budapest for a city break in October, the Autumn Festival is a must-visit, whether you fancy the Food and Film Festival, the international dance premieres or the New Technology displays you’ll find something to inspire, interest and enthral you and make your trip forever memorable. Prices vary depending on the show or exhibition but if you want to find out more or book tickets in advance you can visit the Budapest Tourist Guide for more information.