Night of Budapest Theatres 2026 – Choose Us, Let’s Play Together
A spring night celebrating Budapest’s theatre scene
On March 21, 2026, the Hungarian capital transforms into a vibrant cultural stage as nearly 50 theatres, venues, and performing arts companies open their doors for the Night of Budapest Theatres. This beloved annual event invites visitors to explore the city’s world-renowned performing arts scene through late-night performances, backstage tours, and exclusive experiences that reveal the magic behind the curtain.
With this year’s theme, Choose Us – Let’s Play Together, the event unites artists and audiences in a joyful celebration of theatre, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time culture lover, the evening offers a unique way to experience Budapest’s artistic spirit.
What to expect this year
From grand operas and classical plays to contemporary dance and experimental theatre, visitors can enjoy an impressive range of performances and interactive programs. The participating venues include major national institutions, independent stages, and artistic collectives across the city.
Many theatres will host open rehearsals, creative workshops, music sessions, and behind-the-scenes tours where audiences can explore the secrets of stagecraft — from the orchestra pit to the lighting rig. The entire city becomes a living performance space, buzzing with creativity late into the night.
Participating venues include the Hungarian State Opera, Vígszínház, Madách Theatre, Katona József Theatre, Budapest Puppet Theatre, Thália Theatre, Trafó House of Contemporary Arts, and many more.
Ticket types and access information
The Night of Budapest Theatres can be visited with a QR-coded ticket, which grants free access to all participating venues and their programs — including events that require prior registration. However, the ticket is valid only for this event and not for other performances or services organized by the theatres.
Ticket categories:
Best deals of Budapest
- Early Bird Ticket (6,900 HUF): Available from December 1, 2025, to January 11, 2026 (midnight). Valid for all non-registration events and three pre-registered programs.
- Regular Ticket (7,900 HUF): Valid for all open events and three registered programs.
- Supporter Ticket (15,000 HUF): Includes early access to registration (24 hours before the official start) and participation in three registered programs.
- Patron Ticket (25,000 HUF): Includes early registration access, participation in five registered programs, and a special event T-shirt.
Discounts:
Visitors with disabilities are entitled to a 50% discount by sending a photo of their ID to info@bpsze.hu. Once eligibility is confirmed, they will receive a booking link to purchase their discounted ticket.
Ticket purchase and registration
Tickets can be purchased online from December 1, 2025.
In-person sales are available at the Városmajor Open-Air Theatre office (1122 Budapest) between March 16–21, 2026, from Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM.
A virtual queuing system ensures smooth ticket purchasing. Once it’s your turn, you’ll have a limited timeframe to select and finalize your tickets before they return to the system if not purchased in time.
Registration for selected programs:
- Opens on March 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM at budapestiszinhazakejszakaja.hu/programok using your JEGYX1 account credentials.
- Each ticket allows registration for a maximum of three programs (five with a Patron ticket).
- Some events require no registration and are accessible on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Registrations can be modified until March 20, 2026 (midnight), depending on availability.
Accessibility and transportation
Most participating venues are located within central Budapest and are easily accessible by public transport. A map marking all theatre locations will be provided in the official event guide. Many performances have flexible capacity, so even spontaneous visitors with tickets will be able to join various programs throughout the evening.
Why visit the Night of Budapest Theatres?
The event offers a rare chance to experience Budapest’s culture beyond the stage — to meet actors, directors, dancers, and musicians in a friendly, interactive setting. It celebrates the art of storytelling while highlighting the city’s unique mix of tradition and innovation.
If you love the performing arts or simply want to feel the creative pulse of Budapest, March 21, 2026, is a date to mark in your calendar. Step into the spotlight with locals and artists, discover hidden corners of the theatres, and celebrate a truly magical night of culture.