Ügetőfarsang – Harness Racing Carnival at Kincsem Park
Kick off the 2026 Party Season at the Races
If you are in Budapest in February and looking for a local, off-the-beaten-path experience, the Ügetőfarsang (Harness Racing Carnival) at Kincsem Park is a fantastic way to dive into Hungarian winter fun. This free outdoor event combines live harness racing, carnival vibes and family-friendly entertainment, all wrapped in a playful costume theme that locals really embrace.
Kincsem Park is Budapest’s historic horse racing venue, and during Ügetőfarsang it turns into a colourful festival space with cheering crowds, themed races and plenty of seasonal food and drinks to keep you warm.
Date, Location and Free Entry
The Ügetőfarsang marks the start of the 2026 party season at Kincsem Park, just as the carnival period begins in Hungary.
- Date: Saturday, 7 February 2026
- Location: Kincsem Park, Budapest
- Admission: Free entry
Because there is no entrance fee, it is very easy to add this event to your Budapest itinerary, even if you are only curious to experience horse racing and local carnival traditions for a couple of hours.
Costumes, Gifts and Carnival Atmosphere
This harness racing carnival puts a big emphasis on costumes and playful creativity. Visitors are encouraged to wear their best and boldest outfits – from funny characters to classic carnival looks. The first 500 guests arriving in costume receive a complimentary drink: either a glass of mulled wine (for visitors aged 18 and over) or a hot tea.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, with:
- A costume-themed harness race, where even drivers get in on the carnival spirit.
- A dedicated costume contest with valuable prizes.
- A buzzing crowd enjoying music, cheering on their favourites and taking photos in costume.
If you are travelling with friends, it is a great opportunity to dress up together and feel like part of a very local celebration rather than a typical tourist event.
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Races, Special Programs and Family Activities
Ügetőfarsang is built around a full day of harness racing, with special themed events added on top. The trotters (harness race horses) take centre stage, doing their best to impress the audience on the track. The main race of the day is the Sennyey Géza Memorial, honouring one of the most important figures in Hungarian harness racing history.
Beyond the main races, the program usually includes:
- A star race featuring well-known participants.
- A sulky-pulling competition for an extra dose of fun.
- Expanded food and drink options, including classic carnival treats such as Hungarian doughnuts and roasted chestnuts.
- The Kincsem Treasure Hunt Adventure and children’s activities, making the event suitable for families.
- Various prize draws and games with opportunities to win gifts.
Whether you are an experienced racegoer or completely new to horse racing, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing a favourite horse and cheering from the grandstand.
Food, Drinks and On-Site Services
During Ügetőfarsang, Kincsem Park offers a wider range of food and drink to match the festive mood. You can expect:
- Warm seasonal drinks like mulled wine and tea.
- Traditional carnival sweets and snacks.
- Savoury options from food stands and bars around the venue.
For those who wish to place a small bet and add extra excitement to the races, betting counters are available on site, with payment mainly in Hungarian forints and card options at selected counters. There is also an ATM in the main hall, and information materials such as the Turf Magazine to help you follow the races.
Why Ügetőfarsang Belongs on Your Budapest To-Do List
For foreign tourists, Ügetőfarsang at Kincsem Park offers a very local, authentic experience that you won’t find in standard guidebooks. You get:
- A glimpse into Hungary’s horse racing culture.
- A lively winter carnival with costumes and free entertainment.
- A mix of adult fun (races, mulled wine, betting) and family-friendly activities.
If you are searching for unique things to do in Budapest in February, want to see more than the usual landmarks, and enjoy events where locals outnumber tourists, spending a Saturday at Ügetőfarsang is a memorable choice. Put on your quirkiest costume, warm up with a hot drink, and start the 2026 party season right at Kincsem Park.