The title might sound a bit dull to some, but the fact is that this is one of the most anticipated happenings in Hungary, which draws locals, expats and international visitors into a nocturnal cultural adventure.

"This year the annual 'Night of Museums' will be held on June 21 featuring around 2,700 programmes at 470 public establishments", the culture and innovation minister Balázs Hanko recently announced.

Last year, more than 330,000 visitors attended the event. "The Night of Museums is a miracle when hundreds of thousands visit our museums from around the whole Carpathian Basin," Hanko told MTI. 

Extra Special Jokai Events Included

"This year is special," Hanko added, as programmes of the memorial year marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of author Mor Jokai are also joining in.

Jokai related exhibitions and festivities will delve not only into his literary legacy but also the broader cultural landscape of his time - including music, theatre, fashion, and even gastronomy.

Festivities kick off early in the afternoon and run late into the night, featuring concerts, film screenings, interactive displays, guided tours, workshops, and family events.

Highlights include botanical walks inspired by Jókai’s love of gardening, tastings of his signature bean soup, and tutorials in his favourite card game, tarokk.

Also, as in past years, the event spotlights a featured city: this time it’s Miskolc, with its vibrant cultural scene presented throughout the night - actress Gabi Gubás will be the official ambassador.

Expats Can Easily Expore this Cultural Extravaganza

What makes this cultural evening especially appealing for expats is how open and welcoming it is.

Whether you’re curious about local history, passionate about classical or modern art, or are keen to discover a few special city gems, this event has wide appeal.

From experience, we can report that it’s an ideal way to connect with local culture and explore museums and cultural places you might not usually visit - all on one special occasion.

For instance, at the Hungarian National Gallery there will be special music performances, guided walks for children and adults, plus unusual guided tours and special lectures too.

Getting between venues is easy, even if you’re unfamiliar with the city layout. Seven special event buses link participating spots across Budapest, and your event wristband works as your transport pass.

This of course means you can explore freely around the capital, without worrying about multiple tickets or transit issues.

If you’d rather stay active in the evening, MOL Bubi bike-share system is a great alternative to the special buses.

Most museums have stations nearby, so it’s pretty convenient to cycle between stops. Naturally it’s also a healthy way to enjoy a summer evening while soaking in the beauty of Budapest and its vibrant cultural scene.

Handy Tips for This Cultural One-Night Stand

What do you need to enjoy an evening packed with unforgettable cultural experiences on the evening of 21 June? In Budapest, just one 'Night of Musemus' wristband opens all the doors.

Before you set off into the night, it’s worth planning your route carefully since so many institutions are waiting for culture lovers as part of Hungary’s largest and most popular cultural evening.

So if you want to join in the cultural fun, here are a few top tips:

In Budapest:
1. Download the “EVENT@HAND MUZEJ” smartphone app or visit muzej.hu
2. Choose your favorite programs 
3. Organize them into your preferred schedule
4. Register for any programs that require it
5. Plan your transport by checking muzej.hu/busz-lines
6. Buy your Muzej wristband online at Jegymester or at any participating museum
7. Enjoy a night full of culture and energy!

Outside Budapest:
1. Download the “EVENT@HAND MUZEJ” smartphone app or visit muzej.hu
2. Select your favorite programs 
3. Organize them the way you like
4. Purchase entry tickets directly at the participating museum
5. Enjoy the cultural buzz all night long!

In Budapest, access to Night of Museums venues and exhibitions is granted via a unified wristband. An adult wristband costs 3,000 HUF, the children’s wristband (ages 6–18) is 1,500 HUF.

You can buy wristbands in advance at jegymester.hu or at any participating museum in Budapest. The wristband is valid at all participating institutions in the capital on this night.

If you buy your Night of Museums ticket via a museum’s own website or webshop, you’ll need to collect your wristband at that specific museum — check with the venue for details on how and when to pick it up.

Outside of Budapest, tickets are sold at each participating institution individually. So, in Budapest, keep your wristband handy; outside the capital, a valid ticket is your key in.

For the best experience, you can browse all event details online first via muzej.hu

There you’ll find detailed program listings searchable by location, date, or type. You can also mark favorites, create and edit your own list, and even print it. Once you’ve curated your must-see list, all that’s left is figuring out how to get to as many venues as possible.

In Budapest, remember BKK’s special shuttle buses will help you do just that. With your wristband, you can ride these seven-route circuits for free, reaching all the city’s major cultural hubs with ease.

More: 
muzej.hu/en

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