This is how Budapest celebrates its 150th birthday!

Budapest is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and it has some exciting surprises in store for its residents. An iconic building is set to be revived, the City Hall courtyard will be accessible, a party tram will make its debut and a new promenade will be unveiled.

Budapest came into existence in the year 1873. The Hungarian capital, which is marking its 150th birthday this year, has a plethora of activities planned for its citizens throughout the year.

On the 17th of November, the Budapest Municipality and Budapest Brand Nonprofit Ltd. will host an extravagant birthday celebration for the Hungarian capital.

To commemorate this milestone, the City Hall courtyard will be opened to the public, and the building itself will be accessible. In honour of Budapest’s 150th anniversary, a dedicated website has been launched, providing details about the events.

The Merlin Theatre, which had closed in 2011, is also reopening. It will host a theatre performance, a slam poetry evening, various exhibitions and discussions to mark this occasion. Events at the Merlin Theatre are free of charge, but registration is necessary.

In celebration of the anniversary, Budapest is not only offering a variety of programmes but also making infrastructure improvements. As of the 17th of November, the park between Károly Boulevard and Városház Street will become accessible, according to turizmus.com.

A day later, the City Hall will open its doors to the public, where 23 contemporary authors will present their “Budapest Big Novels.”

In honour of the 150th anniversary, an exhibition of illustrations by “The Budapest Master” will also be on display in the City Hall courtyard. 151 Hungarian artists have illustrated a year and a significant event from the city’s inception in 1873 to the present day. “The Heroes of Budapest” will also be featured, and musical performances will enliven the evening hours.

An epic party tram will make its debut, playing energetic tunes. On tram line 49, a DJ will entertain passengers as they dance and enjoy the most picturesque parts of Budapest.

For the party tram, you can also download the “ÉnBudapestem” app, where you can register for the shuttles. Other institutions in the capital are also joining in the celebration. For instance, you can purchase tickets to the member institutions of the Budapest Thermal Baths for 150 Hungarian Forints via the “ÉnBudapestem” app. Additionally, the Budapest Festival Orchestra is preparing a special performance, and the Budapest History Museum is also organising a birthday programme.