Budapest is a big and bustling city that is actually two cities in one, divided by the iconic Danube River. Buda tends to be the slower paced city with more parks and leisure while Pest is the more frenetic and busier of the two. Both are rich in history, architecture while also providing a full complement of holiday activities for vacationers from all over the world.
Budapest is known for its festivals, for there is likely to be something going on at all times from June through December. Some of the most notable festivals and events are:
• The Budapest Summer Festival - beginning in early June and lasting until August, this well known open-air festival brings theater performances, concerts, children's programs, musicals and performances of all kinds to the nation's only permanent open-air stage at Margaret Island .
• Sziget Festival - as one of the largest music festivals in the world, this one brings numerous bands to the stage in Shipyard Island. Every August for over 18 years, bands of all kinds from all over the world as well as Hungarian artists, both well known and top notch up and coming, descend upon the town for a week long party. A festival card has been created to make it easier for festival-goers to pay for things without having to carry cash around the event.
Budapest International Wine Festival - this newer festival is fast becoming a favorite and growing by leaps and bounds every year. Wine lovers can come to Castle Hill in Buda to enjoy sampling Hungarian wines, learning about the art of wine making, meeting the wine makers themselves, all nestled amid the breathtaking scenery of Buda's Castle Hill. There are wine making classes and plenty of opportunities to talk with wine makers and purchase quality Hungarian wines to take home.
St. Stephens Day - occurring on August 20th every year, this is the Hungarian national holiday—their Fourth of July, if you will. Named for King Stephen, the first king of Hungary, the day is filled with national pride, fireworks, music and art in true celebration of the Hungarian nation.
The Budapest Christmas Market - beginning at the end of November and lasting through to the end of December, the famous Christmas market is a sight to behold in this city. High quality handmade crafts and art of all kinds spill from the numerous vendor stalls. Great food and drink is offered and beautiful seasonal music fills the air. Visiting this festival can be a remarkable and memorable part of the holiday season.
These festivals are a mere sampling of what the amazing city of Budapest has to offer holiday goers and locals alike. Many Hungarian nationals set their calendars by the festivals and events going on, filling the days with fun and shopping - especially from June to December. Summer celebrations kick off with the Budapest Summer Festival in the early days of June and the renowned Budapest Christmas Market in December finishes off the year with a bang. Visitors to Budapest are sure to find a festival or event that provides them with an authentic Hungarian celebration experience along with good food, music and company.
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