According to recent tourism data, Hungary is becoming a hot tourist destination, with guest nights at commercial and private tourism accommodations rising 3.6pc to 6,987,000 in August. Budapest, particularly, is a city that has been on the rise over the last few years, and for convention and festival lovers, it certainly has a lot to offer.
In fact, all of Hungary does. Up and down the country, there are numerous festivals that have been growing in popularity for locals and tourists alike, providing them with an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere that Hungary has to offer.
So if you’re planning a trip to the country in 2025, what exactly should you look out for? Well, to help you out, we’ve listed 5 of the most popular festivals and conventions in Hungary right now.
GamePlanet
One of our personal favourites has to be the ‘GamePlanet’ convention, which is located in Budapest. This is a major gaming convention that focuses on video games, board games, and iGaming. With the Hungarian casino industry experiencing significant growth through the online revolution, and the traditional gaming industry paving the way for top brands like Nemesys Games and ZSOFT, this is a great opportunity to envelop yourself in the buzz of a burgeoning gaming scene and connect with fellow gaming enthusiasts.
Sziget Festival
If gaming isn’t really your thing, then perhaps one of Europe’s largest music and cultural festivals will be. Sziget takes place every Agust on Obuda Island in Budapest, attracting thousands of visitors and featuring a unique lineup of international music across various genres. As well as this, you’ll find various art installations, workshops, and cultural performances including theatre, dance, and film. Emphasising community and inclusivity, this could be a great one if you’re looking to get to know new people and get more of an idea on global cultures other than your own.
GameDev Summit
This one might be a little more unique, but it’s worth talking about due to the gaming boom that has been occurring in Hungary. Like the GamePlanet convention, this is a key convention for game developers and industry professionals in Hungary. Focusing on the latest trends and technologies in game development, and offering workshops, talks, and networking opportunities, this can be a great convention to attend if you’re part of an indie studio and looking to gather some invaluable knowledge. You can also participate in hands-on sessions, learning about game design and programming, so even if you’re new to the industry, it could be a great way to improve your skills and make some good connections.
Budapest Spring Festival
Not everyone wants to deal with the business of the Budapest streets in the summer, of course. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key – but still a significant event – then why not take a flight around the Spring season. If you do so, you can visit the Budapest Spring Festival, which showcases a wide range of performances, including classical music concerts, contemporary dance, theatre productions, and exhibitions by local and international artists. While it works to highlight art, in particular, there’s a little something for everyone. So long as you’re a lover of creativity, you’re going to have a great time.
Budapest Comic Con
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the Budapest Comic Con! This is one of the largest pop culture conventions in Hungary, celebrating everything from comics, anime, video games, and science fiction. Typically held annually, the convention attracts a lot of fans from all over the country and beyond, so if you want to ensure your place, we’d recommend buying a ticket as soon as possible. Trust us, it’ll be worth it!
