Where to See Hungarian Folk Art
Hungarian folk art occupies an important space in the country’s culture: colourful embroidery, pottery, lace and more are displayed in museums, produced by local craftsmen and bought by visitors and locals to this day. Join us on a folk art tour of Hungary, as we take a look at where to see the best of this original art form.
Budapest
1. Budapest Festival of Folk Arts
Every year, Buda Castle plays host to a folk art extravaganza as this established festival celebrating Hungary’s traditional art forms takes over the grounds. Artists from across the country arrive in the capital to share their work with visitors, while there are also workshops allowing guests to try their hand at the age old arts of egg painting, pottery and other crafts. Food and drink come in the form of traditional Hungarian specialties such as Pálinka and goulash, which can be enjoyed while watching a live dance show or music performance. Two guest nations are also invited to show off their artistic skills every year, bringing a touch of diversity to this folk art festival.
Buda Castle, Szent György tér 2, Budapest, Hungary
2. The Museum of Applied Hungarian Folk Art
Museum
3. The Museum of Ethnography
Building, Museum
Around Hungary
4. Skanzen Open Air Museum
Museum
Creative Houses
The Association of Hungarian Folk Artists supports a number of creative houses across Hungary, in which local craftsmen work together to share their skills and knowledge in a community environment. There are often events and activities run by the various Creative Houses and while these are often in Hungarian, it’s a great opportunity to get an authentic experience of Hungarian folk art.
5. Sopron Festival Weeks
Every summer between June and July, the city of Sopron in northern Hungary hosts the popular Festival Weeks – one of the area’s largest arts festivals. The city’s squares are the venue for the festivities, which fill downtown Sopron with a lively atmosphere. On the program are theatre performances, dance shows, live music and plenty of folk art exhibitions and stalls.
Sopron Festival Weeks, Sopron, Hungary
Bereg County
A drive through the northeastern Bereg region of Hungary allows visitors to stumble upon Hungarian folk art almost by accident: Churches adorned with traditional paintings are dotted throughout the area, while local craftsmen sell their wares in towns and villages along the way. The region is known for its preservation of tradition making it a great place to explore for anyone looking to see Hungarian folk art outside a museum. The small village of Tákos is a must: the Tákos Calvinist Church is notable for its painted ceiling and carved pulpit, while the Tákos Provincial House sells local crafts and delicacies. In the nearby village of Vásárosnamény, the Bereg Museum houses exhibitions focused on textiles, embroidery, pottery and painted eggs.
6. Hollókö
Museum
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming village in northern Hungary is both a cultural site and a working village with around 400 residents. The Hollókö Village Museum in the Old Village is the place to visit for a glimpse into traditionally decorated furnishing, while the former weaving house teaches visitors about hand weaving. There are also a number of small local shops selling hand-crafted products from Hollókö. Visit at Easter for the villages authentic Easter celebrations, including arts and crafts stalls, traditional egg painting and demonstrations.
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