Introduction

Budapest which is the capital of Hungary, is famous for its long history, beautiful buildings and lively culture. Visiting in 2022 is sure to be special due to the many exciting events and festivals available for you! Interests such as music, art, food and sports can all be enjoyed in Budapest. Because there is much to do all year in the city, visitors with all kinds of interests find it appealing. If you like culture, racing or festive atmospheres, Budapest is the perfect choice for you.

1. The festival is known as Budapest Spring Festival.

The festival happens each year to focus on music, dance and visual arts. Singers, dancers and musicians from all over the world gather in different places within the city to perform. There is something for everyone from ancient music to modern dance performances at the Budapest Spring Festival. It has played a vital role in forming the city’s arts scene and helps show the lively creative environment in Hungary for decades. Often, events are organised in the Hungarian State Opera, Müpa (Palace of Arts) and old churches, so people can enjoy both excellent music and well-known venues.

Tips:

• Go to the official website to find the event times and ticket prices.
• Buy tickets ahead of time if you want the best seats in the show.

Because shows can be very popular, it’s best to plan in advance to make sure you get tickets. Check if there are packages that include activities like tours, meals or all-event access.

2. Formula 1 at the Hungaroring is the Hungarian Grand Prix.

This series yearly features one of the most exhilarating races in Budapest. Fans of car racing from many countries come to attend the Hungarian Grand Prix. Just a short drive from Budapest, the unique Hungaroring track gives fans and competitors a fun and exciting day. For the first time in 1986, it happened behind the old Iron Curtain and since then it has become a summer event liked by both fans and racers. Usually, the event is held in late July or early August and visitors can experience an energetic atmosphere, fan zones, artist meet-ups and entertainment for everyone.

Tips:

• A three-day pass gives you access to every activity like practice sessions, qualifying and the race.
• Try to arrive early before the race to get a spot where you can watch well.

A lot of visitors prefer to book a hotel nearby or they take the easy shuttle buses that leave from Budapest proper and bring them to the track. Remember to put on ear protection and sunblock, because summer races tend to be very loud and offer lots of sunshine.

3. Sziget Festival

Since it is one of Europe’s biggest music festivals, Sziget gathers a crowd of hundreds of thousands every year. The festival lasts for a week and includes performances by famous international musicians, plus theater shows, art pieces and various cultural activities. Located at Óbuda Island by the Danube, Sziget turns the area into a lively creative space full of celebration. Previously, the festival has had superstars such as Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa and Kendrick Lamar perform, so many music fans want to attend.

Tips:

• Wear shoes that you can walk and dance easily in.
• Always remember to take breaks and drink as much water as possible to stay from getting exhausted.

Guests who want to experience camping can do so on-site and VIP packs offer better care. Sziget is not only a festival—it unites people from all over the world to enjoy music and some sense of community.

4. Budapest Christmas Fair and the Winter Festival

If you go to Budapest in winter, check out the annual Christmas Fair and Winter Festival. In winter, Vörösmarty Square turns into a place full of craft vendors, amazing food and hot drinks. Playing music live and setting up rinks for ice skating create more holiday cheer. Cinnamon, roasted chestnut and rich mulled wine fill the air, making everything look and feel very magical. Many people in Hungary and abroad visit the event year after year, making it a special event for many.

Tips:

• Indulge in the classic sweet chimney cake which is served at most Hungarian fairs.
• Wear layers to keep yourself comfortable in the cold.

There is another Christmas market near Vörösmarty Square, known as the Advent Feast at St. Stephen’s Basilica which lights up the cathedral with bright colors.

5. The city’s annual Budapest Wine Festival

People who love wine will certainly not want to miss the Budapest Wine Festival. Taking place at Buda Castle, the four-day program celebrates top Hungarian wines. Vendors sell red, white and rosé wines and you can sip them as you listen to performers. The wine tasting here becomes more memorable because of the wonderful view of the city and the river from the hilltop. The festival celebrates hundreds of Hungarian wineries, making it a great way to sample Tokaji, Bikavér (a red wine) and crisp Balaton whites, specialties from the area.

Tips:

• Buy your wine tasting pass beforehand to skip the line and save some dollars.
• Joining wine workshops might teach you even more about the traditions of Hungarian winemaking.

A lot of vendors provide carefully prepared food as well such as cheeses, sausages and pastries that match your drink choice. Regardless of your level of wine interest, the event gives you a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

Budapest will be alive with special events on the calendar for 2022. You can enjoy music, sports or cultural performances at different events held in Budapest. Base your visit on these incredible events and enjoy the stay in one of the most interesting places in Europe. You can find spring festivals, summer races, wine tastings in autumn and winter markets each season in Budapest. Gather your things, make your plans and enjoy Budapest as it comes to life with so many festive events.