In Hungary the carnival season (Farsang) that precedes Lent, starts on Epiphany (January 6th) and it ends on Ash Wednesday (which is February 22 in 2012). Farsang is marked by many fun festivities, masquerades, balls and noisy parades that aim to scare off winter and welcome spring. There are many celebrations held throughout Hungary with the Busójárás in Mohács being the most popular. The Busójárás follows old folk traditions and is acknowledged by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Events to attend during Farsang in 2012:
Midnight Music by the Budapest Festival Orchestra
When: January 21, 11:30 pm
Where: Millenáris Teátrum (Fény utca 20-22, Buda, District 2)
More info: Millenáris
Budapest International Circus Festival
When: February 2-6
Where: Municipal Circus (Állatkerti körút 12/a, Pest, District 14)
More info: Budapest Circus Festival
Farsang Salsa Ball
When: February 11, 8:30 pm
Where: Sufni G'ART'N (Akácfa utca 47, Pest, District 7)
More info: Sufni Pub
Le Poème Harmonique - Baroque Carnival
When: February 12 & 13, 7 pm
Where: Palace of Arts (Komor Marcell utca 1, Pest, District 9)
More info: Palace of Arts
Busójárás in Mohács
When: February 16-21 (the parade is held on Sunday, February 19th)
Where: Mohács
More info: Busójárás in Mohács
As Farsang is the last merriment before Lent, people are also celebrating it with eating and drinking. One of the most delicious carnival season treats are the mouthwatering Carnival Doughnuts.
