This month is called May for a reason: it may rain, it may be 10°C or 25°C in our capital. But no matter how capricious the weather may be right now, one thing is for sure: you will find plenty of great free programmes in Budapest in May, even in the second half of the month. Check out the following round-up of our favourites.

Enjoy the music: free programmes in Budapest in May

On 26 May, Lindy Hop lovers all around the world will celebrate this unique dance together. You can join the celebration at the National Dance Theatre's Taste of Swing - For Beginners event. Feel the freedom, playfulness and liberation that swing represents. 

If you prefer jazz, Hot Jazz Band will be playing in Zsiráf Buda, while Mazel Tov is offering some great free concerts as part of their Jazz Tuesdays - Live Jazz Nights events. If you can't make it in May, don't worry, Jazz Tuesdays will continue in June.

Festivals, family programmes and so much more

Being a tourist in Budapest in May gives you the feeling that the city is bustling: at this time of year there is a festival on every corner. From 15 to 18 May, Hello Margit! festival is waiting for you with theatre performances, gallery exhibitions, classical and popular music concerts, literary programmes, designer walks and local history walks, while Budapest 100 also offers great free programmes. 

Are you looking for some fun with the kids? This magic show will amaze you, while The Downtown Festival Picnic (Belvárosi Fesztivál Piknik) or the Castle Garden Festival (Várkert Feszt) are also great options for the whole family. If you're in Budapest with a furry family member, don't miss the Downtown Dog Festival (Belvárosi Kutyafesztivál), where you can spend a great day together and with other dog lovers.

Time for some shopping

The first Artisan Craft Fair will be held on Saturday 17 May 2025 at the Lurdy Conference and Event Centre. It is worth a visit because it will be a high quality craft/design fair where Hungarian designers will present their own designs: clothes, bags, jewellery, accessories, baby-mama products, crocheted or sewn textiles, gastronomic delicacies. And, of course, they can tell you lovely stories about their work, if you are open to it.

Say goodbye to May with the MEO Design Market, where you can meet contemporary artists and makers. Jewelry, clothes, illustrations, books, ceramics, paintings and many more is waiting for you, of course with free admission. Whether you are looking for the best souvenirs or just a little gift for yourself, one thing is certain: you will be delighted with your purchase.

Article and photo by Mia Balogh