All Weekend Movie Marathon in Budapest 2025 March 20-23
Looking for an unforgettable weekend in Budapest? Whether you’re a film buff, a dreamer, or just someone who loves neon lights and good vibes, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your guide to the coolest events happening this weekend. Spoiler alert: you will want to stay up all night.
British Film Days at Puskin Cinema (March 20–23)
Lights, camera, action! The British Film Days are back at Budapest’s Puskin Cinema, and they’re bringing the best of British cinema right to your popcorn-covered fingertips. From post-apocalyptic musicals starring Tilda Swinton (The End) to Saoirse Ronan’s heartfelt journey in The Outrun, this four-day event is a cinephile’s dream.
Friday night is all about Manchester’s music scene with a double feature of Control and 24 Hour Party People. And yes, the party continues afterward at Gólya with DJs spinning British pop classics. Who said cinema couldn’t be a dance party?
Why go? Because British films are like tea—classic, comforting, and sometimes a little dark.
Best deals of Budapest
From Dusk Till Dawn: Lucid Dreaming at the Sound Dome (March 20–21)
Ever wondered what it’s like to dream in surround sound? At the House of Music Hungary’s Sound Dome, you can experience an audiovisual odyssey designed to guide you into lucid dreaming. Think comfy mattresses, mesmerizing visuals, and soundscapes that transport you to otherworldly realms.
The highlight? Immerzum: Lucidia, a live production by Péter Halász that blends science and art into an immersive meditative journey. If you’ve ever wanted to explore your inner consciousness while lying under a dome of stars (and sound), this is your chance.
Why go? Because sleeping through this would be ironic—and you might just unlock the secrets of the universe while you’re at it.
Neon Night Cinema Marathon at Etele Cinema (March 21–22)
Forget what the movies taught us about staying in museums overnight—this weekend, it’s all about staying in the movies! The Neon Night Cinema Marathon is taking over Etele Cinema with 12 hours of non-stop films across 15 themed halls. Oh, and did we mention the UV neon lights?
Dress up in your brightest outfit or let professional UV makeup artists give you that glow-up. With over 60 films ranging from Billie Eilish concert documentaries (Live at the O2) to Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of Queer, there’s something for everyone. Horror fans can even catch Nosferatu on the big screen—because nothing says “fun night out” like vampires.
Why go? Because who needs sleep when you have unlimited movies, glowing cocktails, and instant selfie stations?
Your Weekend Survival Tips:
- Plan ahead: Tickets for these events are selling fast! Grab yours online or at the venues before they’re gone.
- Stay hydrated: Whether it’s neon cocktails or tea during British Film Days, keep those fluids flowing.
- Dress for success: Glow-in-the-dark outfits for Neon Night are encouraged. For lucid dreaming? Pajamas work too.
So there you have it—three epic ways to spend your weekend in Budapest. Whether you’re diving into British culture, exploring your subconscious, or basking in neon cinematic glory, one thing’s for sure: sleep is overrated when there’s this much fun to be had!
+ Bonus Screening: Budapest SmartFest: AI & Smartphone Short Film Festival
Ever wondered what happens when you hand your smartphone to artificial intelligence and say, “Lights, camera, algorithm!”? Well, wonder no more—because the Budapest SmartFest International Short Film Festival is back for its second edition at Cinema City Mammut II on March 27–28. This innovative film fest showcases the world’s best short films created with AI or shot entirely on smartphones. And yes, humans are still involved—because let’s face it, robots still can’t quite nail that dramatic close-up.
With entries from nearly 40 countries—everywhere from Canada to China—the festival is judged by a star-studded jury featuring Oscar-winning filmmakers (including Hungary’s own Deák Kristóf) and top AI experts. Before and after screenings, you’ll even have the chance to get hands-on with Samsung devices and see how it feels to create your own AI-assisted masterpieces. Who knows? Maybe you’ll discover you’re the next Spielberg—with a little help from your phone.
Festival founder Ervin Sallai reminds us that AI isn’t here to replace filmmakers but to expand their creative horizons. As he puts it: “Anyone who doesn’t get familiar with AI-driven filmmaking today might find themselves behind tomorrow.” Translation? Don’t let your smartphone outsmart you—get ahead of the curve!
Why go? Because watching Oscar-winning directors and cutting-edge tech collide is like seeing cinema’s future unfold before your eyes—and because bragging rights about attending an international AI film festival are priceless.
Best of all? Entry is free with prior registration, so you’ve got no excuses. Grab your popcorn (and your smartphone), and prepare to be amazed by the future of filmmaking at Budapest SmartFest!