Celebrate the 2026 Chinese New Year Festival in Budapest’s Vibrant Chinatown
Experience the Year of the Horse with authentic Chinese culture and cuisine
If you’re visiting Budapest in February 2026, mark your calendar for one of the city’s most colorful and dynamic events – the Chinese New Year Festival, taking place in Budapest Chinatown (Monori Center) on February 7–8, 2026. The festival welcomes the Year of the Horse with an exciting mix of authentic street food, dazzling performances, traditional workshops, and cultural shows brought directly from China.
This year, the celebration becomes extra special with two award-winning chefs arriving from Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan province, to introduce Hungary to classic and rarely seen Sichuan street food – a true treat for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A taste of Sichuan in Budapest
Foodies, take note — this is your only chance to experience authentic Sichuan flavors in Budapest, prepared by master chefs visiting exclusively for the festival. Bring your appetite and try:
- Tian Shui Mian (甜水面) – sweet and spicy Sichuan noodles with a rich, nutty flavor.
- San Da Pao (三大炮) – chewy Sichuan-style mochi balls, tossed theatrically before serving.
- Kou Shui Ji (口水鸡) – spicy, flavorful chicken dish, often called mouthwatering chicken.
- Liang Fen (凉粉) – refreshing Sichuan glass noodles served cold with chili sauce.
These dishes will be available only during the festival, exclusively in Chinatown’s outdoor food market. Visitors can pay conveniently by card, enjoy festive drinks, and watch traditional kung fu-style tea pouring performances using one-meter-long teapots, a signature art form from Sichuan teahouses.
Cultural entertainment and performances
The two-day program promises non-stop entertainment featuring stage shows, traditional workshops, and cultural displays for visitors of all ages. Expect a vibrant mix of music, art, dance, and Chinese heritage brought to life by delegations from Chengdu, Fujian, and other regions.
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Stage highlights:
- February 7 (10:00–12:00): Opening show with lion and dragon dances, acrobatics, kung fu demonstrations, and folk music.
- February 8 (10:00–12:00): Morning parade with traditional Chinese instruments, qipao fashion show, drummers, and folk dance.
- Afternoon sessions: Tai chi and Qigong workshops, fire-spitting, face-changing opera, live Chinese R&B, and the mesmerizing long-spout tea show.
Hands-on cultural experiences
Inside the festival area, visitors can explore fascinating hands-on activities between 10:00 and 16:00 each day:
- Hanfu dressing: Try on beautiful traditional Chinese garments for free.
- Calligraphy & painting: Learn basic Chinese characters or create your own brush art.
- Craft workshops: Try sugar painting, dough modeling, paper cutting, or seal carving.
- Chinese horoscope booth: Discover your zodiac sign and what 2026 means for you.
- Make-your-own corner: DIY crafts and face-painting for children.
- Wishing tree & traditional games: Write your wishes for luck and happiness, then join in cultural games and dragon dance practice.
Two artisans, designated as cultural heritage masters, will also perform live demonstrations, showcasing centuries-old Chinese techniques passed down through generations.
Practical info for visitors
- Dates: February 7–8, 2026
- Venue: Chinatown (Monori Center), District X, Monori Street 5, Budapest
- Admission: Free entry! Some “DIY” and tea-tasting activities require a small material fee.
- Food & drinks: Available between 11:00 and 16:00 – card payment accepted.
- Parking: Free parking available on site, with an extra temporary lot open during the event.
- Public transport: Easily reachable by tram (3, 28, 62), bus (9, 95, 195), trolley (75), or train (Kőbánya alsó station). The nearest stops are Mázsa utca, Mázsa tér, and Kőbánya alsó.
Why you shouldn’t miss it
The Chinese New Year Festival Budapest 2026 offers a rare chance to experience authentic Chinese traditions right in the heart of Europe — from Sichuan’s bold street food to spectacular performances and family-friendly workshops. Whether you’re drawn to the artistry of tea kung fu, the rhythm of the dragon dance, or the flavor explosion of spicy noodles, this lively event guarantees unforgettable memories.
Join the Hungarian-Chinese community in celebrating renewal, joy, and good fortune as the Year of the Horse gallops in — bringing energy, movement, and new beginnings to Budapest.
For event updates, visit the official Facebook event page and follow Chinatown Budapest for the latest details.