Carnival 2026 at Édes Mackó – A Month of Sweet Chimney Cake Delights
Celebrate Hungary’s sweetest carnival tradition in Budapest
If you’re planning a winter trip to Budapest, here’s a truly Hungarian experience you shouldn’t miss. The beloved Édes Mackó Kürtőskalács Confectionery, located next to the Budapest Zoo, is once again hosting its annual Carnival Kürtőskalács Weekends—a month-long celebration of the country’s most iconic pastry, the kürtőskalács, also known as the “chimney cake.”
Originating from Transylvania, kürtőskalács is a traditional pastry made from sweet dough, baked over open fire, and coated in sugar, cinnamon, or other creative toppings. During carnival season, Édes Mackó takes this tradition one step further—by transforming it into kürtősfánk (chimney donuts) paired with seasonal coffee specialties and festive treats.
The event series runs from mid-January to mid-February 2026, offering a different theme each weekend so visitors can discover new flavors and creative reinterpretations of this Hungarian classic.
Sweet weekends at Édes Mackó
Here’s what to expect during the 2026 edition:
- January 17–23: Carnival Opening – Classic Kürtősfánk Week
- January 24–25: Kürtősfánk Variations Weekend
- January 31 – February 1: Vegan Kürtősfánk Weekend
- February 6–8: Gluten- and Dairy-Free Carnival Treats
- February 13–15: Valentine’s Kürtőskalács Weekend
Each weekend features limited-edition chimney cakes, kürtősfánk donuts, themed desserts, and coffee creations that are available only during the carnival season.
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In response to popular demand, Édes Mackó will also prepare their traditional and special gluten-, dairy-, and egg-free kürtősfánk versions every Wednesday and Friday throughout the month. Perfect for those with dietary sensitivities who still want to enjoy authentic Hungarian sweets.
Valentine’s Kürtőskalács celebration
The most romantic weekend of all runs from February 13 to 15, when Édes Mackó invites couples to celebrate love with their Valentine’s Kürtőskalács menu. Enjoy special treats such as the Valentine Kürtős Cream Cake, Love Box, and the adorable Kürtős Heart filled with raspberry cream and chocolate sauce.
Couples can also indulge in a Pair Brunch Menu that includes dessert tastings and a complimentary Raspberry Lemonade, or try the signature Mackó Love Elixir, a spiced hot apple drink that perfectly complements a winter stroll through the nearby Zoo.
And since the Budapest Zoo celebrates Valentine’s Days at the same time—offering entry for two at the price of one—Édes Mackó adds a sweet bonus: guests visiting with a partner receive 1+1 complimentary Mackó Love Elixirs.
Order and enjoy at home too
For those who prefer to stay warm indoors, Édes Mackó’s special Kürtősfánk Boxes and Valentine Love Boxes are available for home delivery via Wolt and Foodora. You can even purchase your own kürtősfánk baking rods on-site, with special discounts available during the event.
Event details
- Location: Édes Mackó Kürtőskalács Confectionery, Budapest Zoo area
- Event period: January 17 – February 15, 2026
- Special days: Wednesday and Friday gluten- and dairy-free kürtősfánk
- Delivery platforms: Wolt and Foodora
- Tickets or reservations: Not required – open to all visitors
A warm taste of Hungarian tradition
The Carnival Kürtőskalács Weekends offer the perfect opportunity to experience an authentic part of Hungarian culture—complete with nostalgic flavors, cheerful atmosphere, and creative pastry innovations. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, there’s no sweeter way to celebrate Budapest’s carnival season than at Édes Mackó, surrounded by the scent of freshly baked chimney cakes and the joy of local tradition.