Photo by Incze László – Ethnographic Museum
Many folks probably know that the Season of Carnival is just around the corner. So here you go! …
On February, 22. it offers many programs for families of all generations to better learn about the traditions of the most lively time of the year!
Since we know it, well the Venetian carnival is known worldwide. It is built on ancient traditions, in the city of gondolas and lagoons. Countries in-and-around Europe some-way-or-another get into the groove dress-up in celebrating the traditional peasant culture. Hungary is no exception either. The carnival period in 2025 is from Epiphany (January 6) to Ash Wednesday (March 5 in 2025). In traditional peasant culture, this is a time of fun, freedom and less physical work-laden weekdays. The Ethnographic Museum also encourages self-indulgent fun!
On February, 22. it offers many programs for families of all generations to better learn about the traditions of the most lively time of the year!
During the morning hours families can enjoy the Carnival MÉTA Matinee, while in the evening, the Los Andinos concert will take place – preceded by the story of how a stunning Bolivian carnival costume recently found its way into the museum. The band Los Andinos is their Chilean friend Hugo Romero Navarro. Their performances take you on a journey from the mountains of Potosí in Bolivia, through the valleys of Cuzco in Peru, to the region of the Chimborazo and Imbabura volcanoes in Ecuador.Spotlight will also be cast on the Busó traditions – Busó secrets – Family busó mask making program and workshop with mask carver Gábor Baráth and traditionalist Gábor Bősz featured in the museum’s permanent exhibition. Not only will we have an expert guide in the Heritage exhibition section, but visitors will also have the opportunity to try their hand at carving a Busó mask in the MÉTA space.
Through presentations and guided tours, we will gain fascinating insights into the carnival season, including age-old customs surrounding masquerade attire—what transforms a costume into a ritual outfit? How does courtship, matchmaking, and marriage tie into this period?
Alongside unique ethnographic films, will be screening Lajos Boglár’s 1967 documentary Women’s Carnival in Mátraalmás, which caused such an uproar upon its release that local women never dared to hold the event again … above age 14 … definitely worthwhile not to be missed!
Visitors can also immerse themselves in the joys of a traditional pig slaughter, enjoy the dramatized puppet play Truka, the Dancing Goat, and listen to live Zither music in the museum’s temporary exhibition May the Zithers Sing Merrily! Dramatic puppet show, songs with Szilvia Bognár in the spirit of carnival weddings
Just to stay informed … Price of a single-entry ticket for the day HUF2500. which granting access to all exhibitions and programs. This means visitors are offered a full day of events for the price of a temporary exhibition ticket. Discount tickets Will not be available (students, seniors, teachers, or persons with disabilities) as this is a special event ticket. Visitors arriving in costume will receive a 10% discount at the Etnoshop! Tickets available on the spot whereas 2 ticket office for the visitors..
Free crossing of the museum building will be restricted on this Special Day.
Why not spend your Saturday “bathing” within festive joy … tradition … music!
Recomendation by Aggie Reiter
Rolling in Budapest 