The Legendary Haggenmacher Brewery Returns to Budafok: A Historic Beer Revival You Can’t Miss
Are you ready to witness history in the making? This September, Budapest’s Budafok district is about to become the epicenter of an incredible brewing renaissance as the legendary Haggenmacher Brewery makes its triumphant return after more than 70 years.
A Legendary Brand Returns Home
Picture this: it’s 1873, and Swiss-born industrialist Henrik Haggenmacher purchases the Frohner family brewery in what was then called Promontor (now Budafok). By the turn of the century, his brewery had become Hungary’s second-largest beer producer, right behind Dreher. But then came 1951, and with state nationalization, the Haggenmacher name vanished into history – until now.
The story comes full circle thanks to Wolfgang Bartesch, a Bavarian entrepreneur who fell in love with Budapest and purchased the original brewery buildings in 2004. Instead of just preserving them as relics, he transformed the space into art quarter budapest (AQB), a vibrant cultural hub that’s been hosting exhibitions, artist studios, and music events for years.
Now, Bartesch is taking things to the next level. Partnering with three Hungarian collaborators – including Kolos Kósa, the mastermind behind the famous Főzdefeszt craft beer festival – they’re bringing the Haggenmacher brand back to life in the very building where it all began.
Mark Your Calendar: September 26-28, 2025
Get ready for the Haggenmacher Oktoberfest – a three-day celebration that’s going to be absolutely spectacular. Here’s what awaits you at this historic beer festival:
Friday, September 26 (5:00 PM)
- The ceremonial tap opening by Ferenc Karsay, mayor of Budapest’s 22nd district
- Live performance by the legendary 22-member Musikkapelle Bernbeuren brass band (founded over 200 years ago in a tiny Bavarian village!)
- Exclusive brewery tours – see how the magic happens
- Jazz concerts and DJ sets to keep the energy flowing
Saturday, September 27 (11:30 AM)
- Beer breakfast and brunch with live brass band music
- Continuous brewery tours throughout the day
- Live concerts and DJ performances until late evening
- Games, sports activities, and even a boat swing!
- The grand finale performance by the Bernbeuren band (7:30-9:30 PM)
Sunday, September 28 (11:30 AM)
- Traditional Bavarian white sausage breakfast
- Final brewery tours
- Performance by Südofen Blaskapelle
- Games and friendly conversations to wrap up the weekend
What Makes This Event Special?
This isn’t just another beer festival – it’s a cultural renaissance. The new Haggenmacher Brewery will start with a classic lager, giving you the chance to taste history reborn. But beyond the beer, this event represents something much bigger:
Cultural Heritage Meets Modern Creativity: The brewery operates within the AQB art quarter, creating a unique fusion of industrial heritage, contemporary art, and craft brewing.
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Community Spirit: This revival brings back a piece of Budafok’s identity while creating new opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Tourism Innovation: The combination of brewery tours, art installations, and cultural programming creates a one-of-a-kind destination experience.
Planning Your Visit
Location: art quarter budapest, Nagytétényi út 48-50, Budapest XXII (Budafok)
When: September 26-28, 2025
What to Wear: Come in traditional dirndl or lederhosen if you have them, but good vibes are the only real requirement!
Why Beer Lovers and Culture Enthusiasts Are Buzzing
The Haggenmacher revival represents more than nostalgia – it’s about honoring the past while innovating for the future. The brewery will offer regular tours, and the combination with the existing art quarter means you can enjoy world-class beer alongside cutting-edge art installations and cultural events.
Pro tip: Book your accommodation in advance! This historic event is expected to draw beer enthusiasts, culture lovers, and curious visitors from across Europe.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur, a history buff, or someone who loves unique cultural experiences, the Haggenmacher Oktoberfest promises to be unforgettable. You’ll witness the rebirth of a legendary Hungarian beer brand, enjoy authentic Bavarian entertainment, explore contemporary art, and be part of Budapest’s brewing history in the making.
This September, Budafok isn’t just back on the beer map – it’s becoming a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and celebration. Don’t miss your chance to raise a glass where it all began, over 150 years ago.
Ready to be part of history? The Haggenmacher menyasszony (bride) has returned, and the party of a lifetime awaits!
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