The vibrant sights, sounds and flavours of Hungary will come alive at the Buda Hungarian Folk Festival 2026 this Saturday April 18.
The festival will be a joyful celebration of culture, craft and community set within the beautiful grounds of Castlemaine’s iconic Buda Historic Home and Garden.
‘Buda’, an authentic house and garden surviving from the gold rush era, was lovingly named after Budapest by its Hungarian owner, Ernest Leviny.
It was home to the creative Leviny family for 118 years and houses their significant intact collection of furniture, art works and belongings.
Presented in partnership with the acclaimed FONO Hungarian Dance Group, this immersive festival invites visitors to experience the richness of Hungarian traditions through a full day of performance, participation and discovery.
Audiences will be swept up in the energy of traditional folk dance performances, alongside exhilarating live music from the Vardos Trio.
For those eager to join in, the Dance House experience offers a rare opportunity to learn authentic steps from professional dance teachers direct from Budapest—no experience required, just enthusiasm. Additional charge applies.
Food lovers will delight in a feast of Hungarian favourites, from slow-cooked gulyás prepared over an open fire to freshly made lángos, hearty lecso with rice, traditional kransky sausages and cabbage rolls. A bustling market will showcase Hungarian baked goods, while visitors can try their hand at decorating ginger and honey bread.
Throughout the day, festival goers can explore folk art activities inspired by Hungarian and Leviny folk art motifs, including embroidery and fabric crafts, alongside free creative experiences for children. A colourful traditional costume parade will add to the festive atmosphere.
Honouring Buda’s heritage, a silversmith showcase will celebrate the legacy of Ernest Leviny, complemented by guided tours of the historic home. Add in craft stalls and even a whimsical gypsy wagon tarot reading, and the result is a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Hungarian culture in the heart of Castlemaine.
Buda is located at 42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine. The event will run from 11am-4pm. Entry is $10 Adults and $5 kids.
For more information and to book your tickets visit budacastlemaine.org