Hunglish.orgBuda Castle, once known as the Royal Palace, was built with Gothic, Renaissance and Art Noveu elements throughout the centuries...
Buda Castle, once known as the Royal Palace, built with Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau elements throughout the centuries, was constructed in the 14th century forKing Béla Bun IV of Hungary who reigned between 1247 and 1265. It was also home to Louis the Great, King Sigismund and King Matthias. It is now considered one of the most valuable of Budapest's architectural gems. And it is here where many a festival can be spent presiding over mulled wine and in the company of many Hungarian artisans for certain holidays and events. Three main events stand out as favored times to visit the castle this year; first there is the annual Folk Festival, it will be from August 20-23; secondly, comes the the Wine Exhibition running now for 8 years coming to the castle on the 9th through the 13th of September; and lastly, the Palinka and Sausage Festival returns in October from the 10th until the 12th.
Starting with the Folk Festival, August 20-23, cost is 1,500 HUF and times are from 10am until 11pm. Look on as Hungarian’s weave baskets and other craftsmen work and display their handmade treasures. The festival coincides with St. Stephen's Day, honoring Hungary's patron saint. With folk garb, dance, music and food, there is much to do and see. Give alms to St. Stephen on the first day of the festival with a parade, craftsmen and dancers and a ceremonial blessing of newly baked bread. Take in the glorious view of Pest and the river Danube from the high-walled city at sunset, take the children for puppet shows and street theater performances. There will be many items to purchase from toys to clothes, pottery, jewelry to honey and wine.
Next in line comes the Budapest International Wine Festival in September from the 9th to the 13th. Considered one of the most popular and professional of all Central European arts festivals, sample wines from over 170 wineries—most all wines are from Hungarian producers, however, a number of foreign wines will be introduced as well. A variety of food stands will serve grilled meats and vegetables, cheeses like sheep and goat, 'töki pompos lángos' which is a fancy flat scone baked while you wait and the elusive Hungarian truffle. Coinciding with the festival is a gala dinner, a wine auction and musical concerts. The festival opens on the 9th and 10th from 2pm until 11pm that night; on the 11th the times are from 10am until 11pm; and on the 12th and 13th from 10am until 11pm its final night. Those visitors who want to participate in the judging for the wine to win the title of the year may do so by visiting the VinAgora Tent to taste and tell. Come specifically on the 12th if you are in the mood for a Harvest Parade that starts at 1pm—a parade to celebrate the grape and wine producers of old. The procession will involve folk dancing, other traditional bands and Hungarian dignitaries, Wine Orders, and wine aficionado organizations as well as the representative of the Truffle Order of Knights.
If that wasn't enough time spent in the royal gardens, think again with Buda Castle's, Palinka and Sausage Festival open for business from October 9th through until the 11th of October, 2009. Open every day from 12pm until midnight, entry is 1,700 HUF and includes a tasting glass and a 500 HUF tasting coupon. The palinka and the sausage providers have been narrowed down to the finest fifteen. Stemming from a centuries old traditions, travelers will discover the heart of Hungary and it's many fares here. All products are unique and premium choice brands. Look for the well-known and Hungarian protected palinkas such as Békési plum brandy and Kecskeméti apricot brandy. Palinka, Napoleon's drink of choice, is a national favorite, try from a multitude of fruit distillations. Learn the spices used in making Palinka and of other special methods and ingredients used to flavor the foods of Hungary. Be entertained with traditional Hungarian music and enjoy many of Hungary's winning artists playing some of its best-loved Hungarian jazz and folk.
Food and fun is far from medieval in this spectacular and unforgettable setting, so whether you are trying these festivals out for the first time or if they are a regular occasion on your calendar, don't miss this chance for a royal splendor of a time!
Cheers and Bon Appetite!