This content was translated using AI.
The Museum of Ethnography is joining the Night of Museums again this year with an exciting and diverse program offering.
The Night of Museums wristband is now available!
Programs
All day:
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
Székely Gate Carving – demonstration workshop
Visitors to the exhibition can gain insight into the process of carving Székely gates through the work of master carver Zoltán Bagoly and his 11-year-old son, Gergő Bagoly: how decorative patterns emerge from plain wood. First the master sketches the pattern on the gate post, then engraves it, and finally carves out and deepens the base around the pattern, creating the final form of the decoration.
15:50-16:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári – artistically known as Kayamar. The members' love of music and joy of singing shaped them from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected community. Their unique and high-quality repertoire brings together values from classical and popular music. Their performances are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
16:00-16:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
From a Pure Spring – Székely and Moldavian Csángó Melodies performed by Erika Miklósa
Erika Miklósa, recipient of the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen, Kossuth Prize, Franz Liszt Prize, and Prima Primissima Prize, is a coloratura soprano opera singer who will perform at this year's Night of Museums alongside her former protégé László Szlama, who holds the title of young master of folk art and the Junior Prima Prize. The program is a fitting tribute to Hungarian folk music heritage – from authentic sources, performed by credible artists.
Performers: László Szlama – vocals, koboz
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
16:00-17:00
Venue: Zither exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Play On, Zithers!" exhibition
The zither became popular in peasant culture from the 19th century onwards. Due to its simple construction, skilled rural craftspeople could make one themselves. Although there were renowned zither makers, most instruments were made by players for their own use. The zither was a frequent companion at home celebrations, communal work gatherings, and sometimes even balls or – rarely – weddings. Not only adult men but also girls, women, and children could play it. What were these instruments like? How were they played? How did they enter the collection? Interested visitors can find answers to these questions during the gallery talk.
Led by: Ferenc Borsi, zither teacher
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the exhibition entrance
16:00-17:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Szilvia Bognár: Csintekerintő – interactive family concert
Built around the changing seasons, Csintekerintő transmits through its musicality, lyrics, and overall message the cultural heritage passed down to us by former peasant society. The program features the ensemble's characteristic original compositions and folk song arrangements, as well as musicalized verses by renowned Hungarian poets.
Ensemble members:
Szilvia Bognár – vocals
Péter Bede – flute, saxophone
Máté Hámori – guitar
Zoltán Kovács – double bass
16:00-19:00
Venue: Herman Ottó exhibition plaza
Secret Urban Diary – workshop
Notebook creation using wax-crayon technique and stamp-making
Do you have secret places in Budapest? A magical garden where you can hide, a winding cobblestone staircase at the foot of which a strange statue head gazes at you, or a graffito whose meaning only you know? Our city is full of exciting details, and if you keep your eyes open, you can discover countless treasures during your walks! Create your own urban diary and take it with you on your wanderings: collect and sketch everything you find interesting along the way. You can make the diary cover using the wax-crayon technique. You can also create your own stamp for your urban diary featuring your favorite Budapest motif.
Led by: Lili Thury, graphic designer
16:00-20:00
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Family activities for the Jókai 200 anniversary
1. box: Interactive games with objects from the collection exhibition and Jókai texts
2. box: Jókai Bean Soup and other recipes – "abstract" creative corner for children and adults
3. box: The Baradlay Brothers, Mihály Tímár, Aranka Lánghy here and now – collaborative character drawing
Screening room: Mór Jókai the Writer-Illustrator's Island – chain story, comic, detective game
The programs run continuously in the MÉTA plaza spaces.
16:00-20:00
Venue: Ethnography salon, opposite the Ethnoshop
Textile Dyeing Workshop – with motifs from the Museum of Ethnography
We print patterns on fabric bags using stenciling: using a roller, we apply paint through the stencil template, then place it on the bag to create unique prints. Illustrator Cecília Simonyi designs and cuts the stencils in advance, based on motifs from the Museum of Ethnography exhibitions. One major advantage of stencil technique is that it can be easily used across age groups – it brings joy and a sense of achievement even to young schoolchildren. The end result is always unique and striking. The printing is done with screen-printing paint, so the patterned bags are fixed by ironing and can be machine washed.
Led by: Cecília Simonyi, illustrator
16:30-17:30
Venue: Collection exhibition
Jókai Hidden in Ethnographic Objects – thematic gallery talk
We regard Mór Jókai, who in his speech at the founding meeting of the Hungarian Ethnographic Society called ethnography his best collaborator, as an honorary ethnography researcher. He visited locations from his novels in advance: essentially conducting ethnographic fieldwork. Through his works, we see not only the world of the nobility but also gain insight into the lives, customs, and material environment of peasants. He gave his inaugural academic lecture on Hungarian folk humor.
During the gallery talk, we will imaginatively travel to his birthplace, Komárom, and seek out the locations from some of his novels: Torockó in Transylvania, the Hortobágy, Lake Balaton, and explore their ethnographic heritage, while also learning about City Park in the late 19th century. We will encounter two of Jókai's former friends and see objects reflecting the influence of 19th-century national ideas. The program honors Mór Jókai on the 200th anniversary of his birth.
Led by: Erika Vass, ethnography researcher
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Collection exhibition entrance
17:00-17:45
Venue: Zither exhibition
Sústya Zither Ensemble concert
The ensemble was founded in 2010 in Nesvady and has since functioned as the artistic group of the local organization of Csemadok, the cultural federation of Hungarians in Slovakia. They are also the associated ensemble of the Búzavirág Singing Group, and have won gold ratings multiple times at the Bíborpiros Szép Rózsa folk music competition in their own right. In the ensemble, along with the zither players, there is a jug player, and their leader is Ilona Bedecs.
17:00-18:00
Venue: Ceramic plaza (level -2)
Food Hiders – playful, interactive gallery talk in the Ceramic plaza
Have you ever thought about how many different materials and varied purposes the objects we use daily in the kitchen are made from? Would you have guessed that ceramics could also serve some of these functions? The versatility of ceramics makes it possible for one vessel to cool, another to keep things warm, some to mince or preserve. How much can we consider these objects sustainable/environmentally friendly solutions? Discover the versatility of ceramic objects under the guidance of the Museum of Ethnography's EthnoEco team!
Led by: Anna Tihanyi, Dóra Nagy, Borka Bazsó
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Information desk (level -2)
17:00-18:00
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Music Morsels – musical program for children
The program brings to life Hungarian folk songs, nursery rhymes, and a "paper theater" tale. The curious can also learn the basics of zither playing and even master them!
Featuring: folk music teacher Ágota Hajdú and zither-playing friends (Tomsits Rudolf Primary Art School)
17:00-19:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition plaza
Furniture Painting Family Workshop – with Háromszék patterns
This activity, connected to the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition, offers insight into the workshop secrets of a folk craft. Having learned about the process, color palette, and floral motifs of Háromszék furniture painting, participants can create small wooden gift items.
Led by: Gabriella Haszmann, folk furniture painter
17:20-17:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári – artistically known as Kayamar. The members' love of music and joy of singing shaped them from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected community. Their unique and high-quality repertoire brings together values from classical and popular music. Their performances are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
17:30-18:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Swabian Folk Dances and Folk Music
Performance by the Haraszti Young Swabians Association's youth dance group, the Dreidörfler Buam Quintett, and the Haraster Dorfmusik Wind Band.
18:30-19:30
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Mezítláb Ensemble concert
18:00-19:00
Venue: Library storage (-1 level)
Jókai in the Depths of the Archives
How does the Museum of Ethnography Library store its collection of 197,000 volumes? This year's library program for the Night of Museums: a dive into the archives. During the archive walk, visitors will get to know one of the library's largest special collections – the penny dreadfuls. And how do Mór Jókai's texts end up in penny dreadfuls? All will be revealed on this evening!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Damjanich Street foyer, information desk
18:00-19:00
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition
Who are the Székelyek really? What do we know about Székely Land? What are our ideas and beliefs about the Székelyek? What of this is reality? How do those living in Székely Land see themselves? Through more than 300 objects never before shown in Hungary and held by museums in Székely Land, curated by five Székely curators, the Museum of Ethnography's temporary exhibition seeks answers to these questions.
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the entrance to the Székelyek exhibition
18:00-19:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
Musical Gallery Talk with the Stellaria Media Choir
The women's choir founded in fall 2023 at the Museum of Ethnography consists of workers from the museum's main departments. The choir primarily serves a community-building role, but years of practice have now musically bound the team together. Different instrumental colleagues played an important role in bringing the choral works to life, thus connecting singing and chamber music to each other. The choir primarily performs at museum events with works chosen for the occasion, showcasing the diversity of different cultures, continents, countries, and musical worlds. On the Night of Museums, the choir invites visitors to a special gallery talk: musical pieces are performed at several highlighted points as we move through the halls.
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2 at the Collection exhibition entrance
18:30-19:30
Venue: Museum of Ethnography building
ArchitekTour – Explore the museum with architect Marcel Ferencz!
Since its completion in 2022, the museum building designed by Marcel Ferencz (Napur Architect) has been recognized with numerous prestigious international architecture and real estate development awards. Two building wings surrounding the 1956 national memorial rise along a 1-kilometer-diameter arc, creating a gateway to City Park, reaching the height of the surrounding trees' canopy. The underground exhibition space of nearly 7,000 square meters, along with storage areas, the popular rooftop garden, offices, shops, and other spaces, provide 21st-century conditions for the Museum of Ethnography's temporary and permanent exhibitions, artworks, staff, and visitors. Discover this unique building with its designer!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Ethnoshop (Damjanich Street foyer)
19:00-20:00
Venue: Herman Ottó exhibition, Collection exhibition
The Many-Faceted Herman Ottó – thematic gallery talk
Herman Ottó, the first ecologist, conservationist, and initiator of Birds and Trees Day, devoted passionate attention to fishing and herding during his fieldwork. In the midst of the 1896 millennial exhibition, he showcased the tools of ancient occupations and pastoral arts in an impressive pavilion. He enriched museum collections with thousands of objects. Those who follow this Herman trail spanning exhibitions will draw closer to his work and perspective.
Led by: museologists Ágnes Hajdú and Anna Tihanyi
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
18:30-19:30
Venue: Hungary Colorized exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Hungary Colorized – Hidden Photographs from 1862" exhibition
János Tiedge's hand-colored portrait photographs shown at the 1862 London World Exhibition are being seen in Budapest for the first time. The exhibition presents the images, which are among the earliest photographic records of Hungarian cultural history, through a dialogue between materials from the London Victoria & Albert Museum and the Museum of Ethnography. Learn the exciting history of the photographs and preparation for the world exhibition, and discover the modern forms of self-expression from the second half of the 19th century.
Led by: curator Zsuzsa Farkas
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
19:30-20:30
Venue: Méta Béta
The House of the Rising Sun – exploring an Incan sun temple in Bolivia
From Peru in the 15th–16th centuries and the Inca Empire encompassing neighboring countries, we know of numerous buildings connected to different celestial bodies, particularly the sun's movement. Ceremonies were held in them and they were used to determine the timing of festivals and various agricultural activities. One such building was successfully excavated in the Bolivian highlands: it was confirmed to have served as a sun temple.
Lecture by: dr. János Gyarmati, chief museologist
18:50-19:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári (Kayamar). The love of music and joy of singing shaped its members from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected team. Their unique and high-quality repertoire unites the values of classical and popular music. Their pieces are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
19:00-20:00
Venue: Heavy Matter exhibition
Clothes, Objects, Stories – interactive gallery talk with Momentán Ensemble
The Momentán Ensemble's improvisational gallery talk is connected to the Museum of Ethnography's newly opened "Heavy Matter. Women – Costumes – Life Histories" guest exhibition. Visitors will not only observe but also shape the experience: stories woven around clothes and objects come to life with audience participation. Discover the exhibition showcasing Danube Swabian costumes and 20th–21st-century history through theatrical play and shared storytelling – only on this evening!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the exhibition entrance
19:00-20:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Fanfara Complexa concert
The Fanfara Complexa ensemble plays rhythmic dance music based on Moldavian Csángó, Romanian, and Roma melodies. The instrumental music, performed with saxophones, tango accordion, koboz, and drums with a Balkan atmosphere, evokes the somewhat eclectic wedding and ball atmosphere of a rural world that now seems to be fading.
Ensemble members:
Péter Bede – saxophone
Csaba Sófalvi Kiss – saxophone
Bence Babcsán – saxophone/clarinet
Soma Salamon – accordion
Benedek Réti – accordion
Bálint Molnár – koboz
Felix Benke – drums
19:00-22:00
Venue: Etknow bookstore and coworking office
Present Archive Workshop
According to Susan Sontag, "the power of a photograph lies in its ability to enable the close examination of moments that the flow of time would otherwise swiftly erase." Discover the MaDok program's Present Archive project, which aims to create a community photo and story collection spanning the 1990s to the present day. During the workshop, you can look into our currently running campaigns, and you can even contribute your own photo and story to our projects "Play, Adventure, Hiking" and "Cars Heading to the Sea." Be part of the contemporary private photo collection!
19:30-20:30
Venue: Zoom exhibition
Gallery talk in the Zoom exhibition
The exhibition takes a unique perspective on the museum collection, using playful approaches to present object groups and individual objects. The curators zoom, flip, disassemble, invert, and mix things up. Alongside nearly 700 objects presenting the Museum of Ethnography's diversity in exciting, novel forms, new context is given to – for example – the world's oldest Székely gate from 1673 and one of the collection's largest objects, a 7-meter wooden tugboat carved from a single tree trunk.
Led by: Vivien Zatykó, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
20:00-21:00
Venue: Zither exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Play On, Zithers!" exhibition
The zither became popular in peasant culture from the 19th century onwards. Due to its simple construction, skilled rural craftspeople could make one themselves. Although there were renowned zither makers, most instruments were made by players for their own use. The zither was a frequent companion at home celebrations, communal work gatherings, and sometimes even balls or – rarely – weddings. Not only adult men but also girls, women, and children could play it. What were these instruments like? How were they played? How did they enter the collection? During the gallery talk, light will also be shed on the secrets of kuchins, Chinese zithers, that arrived from the Chongqing Chinese Three Gorges Museum.
Led by: museologist Krisztina Pálóczy
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Zither exhibition entrance
20:00-21:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
Matyó Stories – thematic gallery talk
Thematic curatorial tour with Hajnalka Fülöp in the collection exhibition
Where and how were objects decorated with Matyó embroidery made? How did Matyó embroidery reach different social strata and international trade? Through the stories of Matyó objects in the collection exhibition, participants can gain insight into the world where these objects were made. They will also hear about the diverse human-object relationships that played important roles in the lives of their former owners.
Led by: curator Hajnalka Fülöp
Meeting point: Collection exhibition entrance
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
20:00-22:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition plaza
Furniture Painting Family Workshop – with Háromszék patterns
This activity, connected to the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition, offers insight into the workshop secrets of a folk craft. Having learned about the process, color palette, and floral motifs of Háromszék furniture painting, participants can create small wooden gift items.
20:30-21:30
Venue: Hungary Colorized exhibition
Expo Faces & Time Jump
A museum education adventure for expressive, playful adults: the freedom of creation and thought in the "Hungary Colorized – Hidden Photographs from 1862" exhibition.
20:30-21:30
Venue: Heavy Matter exhibition
Women, Costumes, Life Histories – gallery talk
The guest exhibition from the Ulm Donauschwäbisches Zentralmuseum tells the story of Danube German girls and women through 20 costumes from the 1880–1980 period. The festive garments and personal histories of their former owners evoke important milestones of women's lives – from childhood through marriage to old age – while bringing the 20th-century history of Germans to life with tragic post-World War II events: forced labor camps and expulsion. The Danube Swabians are descendants of 18th–19th-century settlers who migrated from German lands, following the Danube River. After the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy dissolved, they became citizens of Hungary, Yugoslavia at the time, and Romania. After World War II, many had to leave their homes and homeland; their descendants today live in various parts of the world.
Led by: Erika Vass, ethnography researcher
Meeting point: Information desk (level -2)
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
21:00-22:00
Venue: Méta Béta
Did the Hungarians Have a Fire God? – Summer Solstice Customs in the Interpretations of Jókai and Ethnography
In the late 19th century, the mysterious, "ancient" Saint John's Eve customs, existing only in certain places, rightfully aroused Jókai's insatiable curiosity. Our cultural-historical exploration follows the writer's imagination as we seek the origins of blazing fires, flower wreaths, incomprehensible songs, superstitions, and beliefs, and search for the place of summer solstice traditions within the system of European folk customs.
Lecture by: Vera Schleicher, ethnographer, museologist
21:00-22:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Dance House
Immerse yourself in the magical whirl of a dance house, where tradition and community meet the joy of movement! The live performance will be provided by Balázs Nyitrai and his band, who play vibrant, authentic string folk music from various regions of the Carpathian Basin. The living, pulsating energy of the music is guaranteed to get everyone dancing. You can master the dance steps under the expert guidance of Bence Sáfrány, so you can confidently join in even if you're just discovering folk dance now.
Featuring: Tamás Nyitrai and his band
Instructors: Bence Sáfrány and Kata Pupek
21:00-21:30
Venue: Zoom exhibition space
Memories Written in the Body – contemporary dance art performance
French dancer Julien Klopfenstein has become an increasingly prominent figure in the Hungarian contemporary dance scene since 2018. In his latest performance, hosted by the Museum of Ethnography, the audience becomes an active participant in dynamic space exploration. The path traversed with the dancer is accompanied by sound and light design, creating a special atmosphere. The performance examines layers of memory, history, and personal connection, where time and identity meet.
Choreography: Julien Klopfenstein
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
21:00-22:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
From Made Beds to Painted Sofas – thematic gallery talk
The gallery talk focuses on the painted and unpainted furniture in the collection exhibition. Visitors will learn about the origins and history of the displayed furniture, their role in the exhibition, various forms and furniture types, and the styles characteristic of different regions.
Led by: Tamás Molnár, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2 at the Collection exhibition entrance
22:00-23:00
Venue: Ceramic plaza
What Lies Hidden in the Depths of the Vessel? – thematic gallery talk
Storage is one of the basic functions of ceramics. So much so that ceramic vessels for storing surplus grain were already being made at the dawn of civilization. This purpose has remained unchanged to the present day. What could have been stored in the ceramics displayed in the exhibition?
Led by: Petra Gärtner, art historian, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2, in front of the information desk
The Night of Museums wristband is now available!
Programs
All day:
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
Székely Gate Carving – demonstration workshop
Visitors to the exhibition can gain insight into the process of carving Székely gates through the work of master carver Zoltán Bagoly and his 11-year-old son, Gergő Bagoly: how decorative patterns emerge from plain wood. First the master sketches the pattern on the gate post, then engraves it, and finally carves out and deepens the base around the pattern, creating the final form of the decoration.
15:50-16:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári – artistically known as Kayamar. The members' love of music and joy of singing shaped them from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected community. Their unique and high-quality repertoire brings together values from classical and popular music. Their performances are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
16:00-16:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
From a Pure Spring – Székely and Moldavian Csángó Melodies performed by Erika Miklósa
Erika Miklósa, recipient of the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen, Kossuth Prize, Franz Liszt Prize, and Prima Primissima Prize, is a coloratura soprano opera singer who will perform at this year's Night of Museums alongside her former protégé László Szlama, who holds the title of young master of folk art and the Junior Prima Prize. The program is a fitting tribute to Hungarian folk music heritage – from authentic sources, performed by credible artists.
Performers: László Szlama – vocals, koboz
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
16:00-17:00
Venue: Zither exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Play On, Zithers!" exhibition
The zither became popular in peasant culture from the 19th century onwards. Due to its simple construction, skilled rural craftspeople could make one themselves. Although there were renowned zither makers, most instruments were made by players for their own use. The zither was a frequent companion at home celebrations, communal work gatherings, and sometimes even balls or – rarely – weddings. Not only adult men but also girls, women, and children could play it. What were these instruments like? How were they played? How did they enter the collection? Interested visitors can find answers to these questions during the gallery talk.
Led by: Ferenc Borsi, zither teacher
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the exhibition entrance
16:00-17:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Szilvia Bognár: Csintekerintő – interactive family concert
Built around the changing seasons, Csintekerintő transmits through its musicality, lyrics, and overall message the cultural heritage passed down to us by former peasant society. The program features the ensemble's characteristic original compositions and folk song arrangements, as well as musicalized verses by renowned Hungarian poets.
Ensemble members:
Szilvia Bognár – vocals
Péter Bede – flute, saxophone
Máté Hámori – guitar
Zoltán Kovács – double bass
16:00-19:00
Venue: Herman Ottó exhibition plaza
Secret Urban Diary – workshop
Notebook creation using wax-crayon technique and stamp-making
Do you have secret places in Budapest? A magical garden where you can hide, a winding cobblestone staircase at the foot of which a strange statue head gazes at you, or a graffito whose meaning only you know? Our city is full of exciting details, and if you keep your eyes open, you can discover countless treasures during your walks! Create your own urban diary and take it with you on your wanderings: collect and sketch everything you find interesting along the way. You can make the diary cover using the wax-crayon technique. You can also create your own stamp for your urban diary featuring your favorite Budapest motif.
Led by: Lili Thury, graphic designer
16:00-20:00
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Family activities for the Jókai 200 anniversary
1. box: Interactive games with objects from the collection exhibition and Jókai texts
2. box: Jókai Bean Soup and other recipes – "abstract" creative corner for children and adults
3. box: The Baradlay Brothers, Mihály Tímár, Aranka Lánghy here and now – collaborative character drawing
Screening room: Mór Jókai the Writer-Illustrator's Island – chain story, comic, detective game
The programs run continuously in the MÉTA plaza spaces.
16:00-20:00
Venue: Ethnography salon, opposite the Ethnoshop
Textile Dyeing Workshop – with motifs from the Museum of Ethnography
We print patterns on fabric bags using stenciling: using a roller, we apply paint through the stencil template, then place it on the bag to create unique prints. Illustrator Cecília Simonyi designs and cuts the stencils in advance, based on motifs from the Museum of Ethnography exhibitions. One major advantage of stencil technique is that it can be easily used across age groups – it brings joy and a sense of achievement even to young schoolchildren. The end result is always unique and striking. The printing is done with screen-printing paint, so the patterned bags are fixed by ironing and can be machine washed.
Led by: Cecília Simonyi, illustrator
16:30-17:30
Venue: Collection exhibition
Jókai Hidden in Ethnographic Objects – thematic gallery talk
We regard Mór Jókai, who in his speech at the founding meeting of the Hungarian Ethnographic Society called ethnography his best collaborator, as an honorary ethnography researcher. He visited locations from his novels in advance: essentially conducting ethnographic fieldwork. Through his works, we see not only the world of the nobility but also gain insight into the lives, customs, and material environment of peasants. He gave his inaugural academic lecture on Hungarian folk humor.
During the gallery talk, we will imaginatively travel to his birthplace, Komárom, and seek out the locations from some of his novels: Torockó in Transylvania, the Hortobágy, Lake Balaton, and explore their ethnographic heritage, while also learning about City Park in the late 19th century. We will encounter two of Jókai's former friends and see objects reflecting the influence of 19th-century national ideas. The program honors Mór Jókai on the 200th anniversary of his birth.
Led by: Erika Vass, ethnography researcher
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Collection exhibition entrance
17:00-17:45
Venue: Zither exhibition
Sústya Zither Ensemble concert
The ensemble was founded in 2010 in Nesvady and has since functioned as the artistic group of the local organization of Csemadok, the cultural federation of Hungarians in Slovakia. They are also the associated ensemble of the Búzavirág Singing Group, and have won gold ratings multiple times at the Bíborpiros Szép Rózsa folk music competition in their own right. In the ensemble, along with the zither players, there is a jug player, and their leader is Ilona Bedecs.
17:00-18:00
Venue: Ceramic plaza (level -2)
Food Hiders – playful, interactive gallery talk in the Ceramic plaza
Have you ever thought about how many different materials and varied purposes the objects we use daily in the kitchen are made from? Would you have guessed that ceramics could also serve some of these functions? The versatility of ceramics makes it possible for one vessel to cool, another to keep things warm, some to mince or preserve. How much can we consider these objects sustainable/environmentally friendly solutions? Discover the versatility of ceramic objects under the guidance of the Museum of Ethnography's EthnoEco team!
Led by: Anna Tihanyi, Dóra Nagy, Borka Bazsó
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Information desk (level -2)
17:00-18:00
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Music Morsels – musical program for children
The program brings to life Hungarian folk songs, nursery rhymes, and a "paper theater" tale. The curious can also learn the basics of zither playing and even master them!
Featuring: folk music teacher Ágota Hajdú and zither-playing friends (Tomsits Rudolf Primary Art School)
17:00-19:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition plaza
Furniture Painting Family Workshop – with Háromszék patterns
This activity, connected to the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition, offers insight into the workshop secrets of a folk craft. Having learned about the process, color palette, and floral motifs of Háromszék furniture painting, participants can create small wooden gift items.
Led by: Gabriella Haszmann, folk furniture painter
17:20-17:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári – artistically known as Kayamar. The members' love of music and joy of singing shaped them from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected community. Their unique and high-quality repertoire brings together values from classical and popular music. Their performances are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
17:30-18:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Swabian Folk Dances and Folk Music
Performance by the Haraszti Young Swabians Association's youth dance group, the Dreidörfler Buam Quintett, and the Haraster Dorfmusik Wind Band.
18:30-19:30
Venue: MÉTA plaza
Mezítláb Ensemble concert
18:00-19:00
Venue: Library storage (-1 level)
Jókai in the Depths of the Archives
How does the Museum of Ethnography Library store its collection of 197,000 volumes? This year's library program for the Night of Museums: a dive into the archives. During the archive walk, visitors will get to know one of the library's largest special collections – the penny dreadfuls. And how do Mór Jókai's texts end up in penny dreadfuls? All will be revealed on this evening!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Damjanich Street foyer, information desk
18:00-19:00
Venue: Székelyek exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition
Who are the Székelyek really? What do we know about Székely Land? What are our ideas and beliefs about the Székelyek? What of this is reality? How do those living in Székely Land see themselves? Through more than 300 objects never before shown in Hungary and held by museums in Székely Land, curated by five Székely curators, the Museum of Ethnography's temporary exhibition seeks answers to these questions.
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the entrance to the Székelyek exhibition
18:00-19:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
Musical Gallery Talk with the Stellaria Media Choir
The women's choir founded in fall 2023 at the Museum of Ethnography consists of workers from the museum's main departments. The choir primarily serves a community-building role, but years of practice have now musically bound the team together. Different instrumental colleagues played an important role in bringing the choral works to life, thus connecting singing and chamber music to each other. The choir primarily performs at museum events with works chosen for the occasion, showcasing the diversity of different cultures, continents, countries, and musical worlds. On the Night of Museums, the choir invites visitors to a special gallery talk: musical pieces are performed at several highlighted points as we move through the halls.
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2 at the Collection exhibition entrance
18:30-19:30
Venue: Museum of Ethnography building
ArchitekTour – Explore the museum with architect Marcel Ferencz!
Since its completion in 2022, the museum building designed by Marcel Ferencz (Napur Architect) has been recognized with numerous prestigious international architecture and real estate development awards. Two building wings surrounding the 1956 national memorial rise along a 1-kilometer-diameter arc, creating a gateway to City Park, reaching the height of the surrounding trees' canopy. The underground exhibition space of nearly 7,000 square meters, along with storage areas, the popular rooftop garden, offices, shops, and other spaces, provide 21st-century conditions for the Museum of Ethnography's temporary and permanent exhibitions, artworks, staff, and visitors. Discover this unique building with its designer!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Ethnoshop (Damjanich Street foyer)
19:00-20:00
Venue: Herman Ottó exhibition, Collection exhibition
The Many-Faceted Herman Ottó – thematic gallery talk
Herman Ottó, the first ecologist, conservationist, and initiator of Birds and Trees Day, devoted passionate attention to fishing and herding during his fieldwork. In the midst of the 1896 millennial exhibition, he showcased the tools of ancient occupations and pastoral arts in an impressive pavilion. He enriched museum collections with thousands of objects. Those who follow this Herman trail spanning exhibitions will draw closer to his work and perspective.
Led by: museologists Ágnes Hajdú and Anna Tihanyi
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
18:30-19:30
Venue: Hungary Colorized exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Hungary Colorized – Hidden Photographs from 1862" exhibition
János Tiedge's hand-colored portrait photographs shown at the 1862 London World Exhibition are being seen in Budapest for the first time. The exhibition presents the images, which are among the earliest photographic records of Hungarian cultural history, through a dialogue between materials from the London Victoria & Albert Museum and the Museum of Ethnography. Learn the exciting history of the photographs and preparation for the world exhibition, and discover the modern forms of self-expression from the second half of the 19th century.
Led by: curator Zsuzsa Farkas
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
19:30-20:30
Venue: Méta Béta
The House of the Rising Sun – exploring an Incan sun temple in Bolivia
From Peru in the 15th–16th centuries and the Inca Empire encompassing neighboring countries, we know of numerous buildings connected to different celestial bodies, particularly the sun's movement. Ceremonies were held in them and they were used to determine the timing of festivals and various agricultural activities. One such building was successfully excavated in the Bolivian highlands: it was confirmed to have served as a sun temple.
Lecture by: dr. János Gyarmati, chief museologist
18:50-19:00
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
KVV Chamber Choir – flashmob
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the chamber choir, which takes its name from the initials of founding conductor Viktor Magyaróvári (Kayamar). The love of music and joy of singing shaped its members from diverse personalities into an energetic, synchronized, and emotionally connected team. Their unique and high-quality repertoire unites the values of classical and popular music. Their pieces are characterized by musical humor seasoned with distinctive motifs. The choir also functions as Kayamar's "instrument," as they most enjoy performing a cappella works composed or arranged by him for the ensemble.
19:00-20:00
Venue: Heavy Matter exhibition
Clothes, Objects, Stories – interactive gallery talk with Momentán Ensemble
The Momentán Ensemble's improvisational gallery talk is connected to the Museum of Ethnography's newly opened "Heavy Matter. Women – Costumes – Life Histories" guest exhibition. Visitors will not only observe but also shape the experience: stories woven around clothes and objects come to life with audience participation. Discover the exhibition showcasing Danube Swabian costumes and 20th–21st-century history through theatrical play and shared storytelling – only on this evening!
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: At the exhibition entrance
19:00-20:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Fanfara Complexa concert
The Fanfara Complexa ensemble plays rhythmic dance music based on Moldavian Csángó, Romanian, and Roma melodies. The instrumental music, performed with saxophones, tango accordion, koboz, and drums with a Balkan atmosphere, evokes the somewhat eclectic wedding and ball atmosphere of a rural world that now seems to be fading.
Ensemble members:
Péter Bede – saxophone
Csaba Sófalvi Kiss – saxophone
Bence Babcsán – saxophone/clarinet
Soma Salamon – accordion
Benedek Réti – accordion
Bálint Molnár – koboz
Felix Benke – drums
19:00-22:00
Venue: Etknow bookstore and coworking office
Present Archive Workshop
According to Susan Sontag, "the power of a photograph lies in its ability to enable the close examination of moments that the flow of time would otherwise swiftly erase." Discover the MaDok program's Present Archive project, which aims to create a community photo and story collection spanning the 1990s to the present day. During the workshop, you can look into our currently running campaigns, and you can even contribute your own photo and story to our projects "Play, Adventure, Hiking" and "Cars Heading to the Sea." Be part of the contemporary private photo collection!
19:30-20:30
Venue: Zoom exhibition
Gallery talk in the Zoom exhibition
The exhibition takes a unique perspective on the museum collection, using playful approaches to present object groups and individual objects. The curators zoom, flip, disassemble, invert, and mix things up. Alongside nearly 700 objects presenting the Museum of Ethnography's diversity in exciting, novel forms, new context is given to – for example – the world's oldest Székely gate from 1673 and one of the collection's largest objects, a 7-meter wooden tugboat carved from a single tree trunk.
Led by: Vivien Zatykó, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Central plaza, information desk (level -2)
20:00-21:00
Venue: Zither exhibition
Gallery talk in the "Play On, Zithers!" exhibition
The zither became popular in peasant culture from the 19th century onwards. Due to its simple construction, skilled rural craftspeople could make one themselves. Although there were renowned zither makers, most instruments were made by players for their own use. The zither was a frequent companion at home celebrations, communal work gatherings, and sometimes even balls or – rarely – weddings. Not only adult men but also girls, women, and children could play it. What were these instruments like? How were they played? How did they enter the collection? During the gallery talk, light will also be shed on the secrets of kuchins, Chinese zithers, that arrived from the Chongqing Chinese Three Gorges Museum.
Led by: museologist Krisztina Pálóczy
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Zither exhibition entrance
20:00-21:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
Matyó Stories – thematic gallery talk
Thematic curatorial tour with Hajnalka Fülöp in the collection exhibition
Where and how were objects decorated with Matyó embroidery made? How did Matyó embroidery reach different social strata and international trade? Through the stories of Matyó objects in the collection exhibition, participants can gain insight into the world where these objects were made. They will also hear about the diverse human-object relationships that played important roles in the lives of their former owners.
Led by: curator Hajnalka Fülöp
Meeting point: Collection exhibition entrance
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
20:00-22:30
Venue: Székelyek exhibition plaza
Furniture Painting Family Workshop – with Háromszék patterns
This activity, connected to the "Székelyek – Heritage Patterns" exhibition, offers insight into the workshop secrets of a folk craft. Having learned about the process, color palette, and floral motifs of Háromszék furniture painting, participants can create small wooden gift items.
20:30-21:30
Venue: Hungary Colorized exhibition
Expo Faces & Time Jump
A museum education adventure for expressive, playful adults: the freedom of creation and thought in the "Hungary Colorized – Hidden Photographs from 1862" exhibition.
20:30-21:30
Venue: Heavy Matter exhibition
Women, Costumes, Life Histories – gallery talk
The guest exhibition from the Ulm Donauschwäbisches Zentralmuseum tells the story of Danube German girls and women through 20 costumes from the 1880–1980 period. The festive garments and personal histories of their former owners evoke important milestones of women's lives – from childhood through marriage to old age – while bringing the 20th-century history of Germans to life with tragic post-World War II events: forced labor camps and expulsion. The Danube Swabians are descendants of 18th–19th-century settlers who migrated from German lands, following the Danube River. After the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy dissolved, they became citizens of Hungary, Yugoslavia at the time, and Romania. After World War II, many had to leave their homes and homeland; their descendants today live in various parts of the world.
Led by: Erika Vass, ethnography researcher
Meeting point: Information desk (level -2)
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
21:00-22:00
Venue: Méta Béta
Did the Hungarians Have a Fire God? – Summer Solstice Customs in the Interpretations of Jókai and Ethnography
In the late 19th century, the mysterious, "ancient" Saint John's Eve customs, existing only in certain places, rightfully aroused Jókai's insatiable curiosity. Our cultural-historical exploration follows the writer's imagination as we seek the origins of blazing fires, flower wreaths, incomprehensible songs, superstitions, and beliefs, and search for the place of summer solstice traditions within the system of European folk customs.
Lecture by: Vera Schleicher, ethnographer, museologist
21:00-22:30
Venue: Damjanich Street foyer
Dance House
Immerse yourself in the magical whirl of a dance house, where tradition and community meet the joy of movement! The live performance will be provided by Balázs Nyitrai and his band, who play vibrant, authentic string folk music from various regions of the Carpathian Basin. The living, pulsating energy of the music is guaranteed to get everyone dancing. You can master the dance steps under the expert guidance of Bence Sáfrány, so you can confidently join in even if you're just discovering folk dance now.
Featuring: Tamás Nyitrai and his band
Instructors: Bence Sáfrány and Kata Pupek
21:00-21:30
Venue: Zoom exhibition space
Memories Written in the Body – contemporary dance art performance
French dancer Julien Klopfenstein has become an increasingly prominent figure in the Hungarian contemporary dance scene since 2018. In his latest performance, hosted by the Museum of Ethnography, the audience becomes an active participant in dynamic space exploration. The path traversed with the dancer is accompanied by sound and light design, creating a special atmosphere. The performance examines layers of memory, history, and personal connection, where time and identity meet.
Choreography: Julien Klopfenstein
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
21:00-22:00
Venue: Collection exhibition
From Made Beds to Painted Sofas – thematic gallery talk
The gallery talk focuses on the painted and unpainted furniture in the collection exhibition. Visitors will learn about the origins and history of the displayed furniture, their role in the exhibition, various forms and furniture types, and the styles characteristic of different regions.
Led by: Tamás Molnár, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2 at the Collection exhibition entrance
22:00-23:00
Venue: Ceramic plaza
What Lies Hidden in the Depths of the Vessel? – thematic gallery talk
Storage is one of the basic functions of ceramics. So much so that ceramic vessels for storing surplus grain were already being made at the dawn of civilization. This purpose has remained unchanged to the present day. What could have been stored in the ceramics displayed in the exhibition?
Led by: Petra Gärtner, art historian, museologist
Participation in this program requires registration. Register
Meeting point: Level -2, in front of the information desk
As with other events or in other places, photographs and audio recordings may be made at this event. By entering the event, participants give their prior and explicit consent – without further question – to the recording and publication of their face and appearance as they may be recognizable in these recordings, for example for the purpose of promoting similar future events.
Anyone can add events to the Folk Calendar. We try to check the data daily, but we cannot take responsibility for its accuracy.
