Looking to dive into Jewish tradition, memory, arts, or history in Budapest this month? October is packed with mind- and soul-expanding events for everyone—from kids to academics, from art lovers to spiritual seekers.
Kabbalah and Learning Sessions All Week
Every Monday at 7:00 PM, Rabbi Baruch Oberlander invites anyone curious to a Kabbalah lesson at the Vasvári Synagogue (Vasvári Pál Street 5, Budapest). No prior knowledge is needed, just an open mind.
On October 20 at 6:30 PM, join Havruta—a unique Jewish study circle—with Rabbi Sámuel Glitzenstein, where participants delve into the weekly Torah portion together. It’s free but requires registration, and you can join anytime during the year at 1 Újpesti Embankment (Újpesti rakpart 1).
Later the same evening, at 7:30 PM, Rebbetzin Sarah Nógrádi leads a Havruta session especially focused on the true role of women in Judaism, clearing up both questions and myths. Free with registration, open to all, also at 1 Újpesti Embankment (Újpesti rakpart 1).
On October 22, Rabbi Baruch Oberlander returns for a special Havruta group to explore messianic times, and, at 6:30 PM, Rabbi Jonatán Megyeri leads a session at Zsilip (1 Újpesti Embankment) delving into the Book of Mitzvot. Both are free, registration required, and ongoing throughout the year—though the Zsilip study is open only to those who are Jewish according to halacha.
Mind and Memory: Train Your Brain
Looking for a little “mental aerobics”? On October 20 at 11:02 AM, memory coach Éva Janzsó offers a memory training workshop at 163 Lajos Street. These sessions aren’t just fun—they boost your brain’s cognitive abilities, attention span, logical thinking, and even language skills. They’re suitable for all ages, with flexible activities done alone or in groups, adapted to participants’ needs. The classes are standalone, so you can join anytime and don’t need to commit weekly.
Kids’ Open Days and Family Fun
Every Wednesday from 5:00 PM at the Óbuda Synagogue (163 Lajos Street), Kiddie Time opens its doors to children ages 3–10 and their parents. Expect group singing, playful Jewish learning sessions, and an active finale (maybe even a Krav Maga lesson). While the kids are engaged, parents can brush up on their Hebrew—a program designed for involvement at all levels.
Jewival Motion Exhibition: Art, Animation, Identity
On October 21 at 6:00 PM, don’t miss the launch of the “Jewival – We Live Again” motion exhibition at Turbina (4 Vajdahunyad Street). Three celebrated animation artists—Péter Bogyó, Vivien Hárshegyi, and Zénó Mira, all alumni of Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design (MOME)—present short films exploring their personal journeys into Jewish themes. Remarkably, none are Jewish themselves, so the exhibition chronicles their process of discovery: the crossing and meeting points between cultures, histories, and inner worlds. The opening is hosted by film director József Fülöp, Rabbi Slomó Köves, and art historian Eszter Babarczy.
The exhibition seeks new ways—beyond standard narrative clichés—to depict Judaism’s 3,000-year-old living cultural values for a 21st-century audience.
Sounds of Jerusalem in Óbuda
A rare musical treat arrives at Óbuda Synagogue on October 25 at 8:30 PM: Avraham Kirshenbaum, the chief cantor of Jerusalem’s Great Synagogue, performs with a full Israeli cantor chorus. The show is conducted by Yotam Segal, with pianist Rita Feldman. Doors open at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $5.30.
History, Architecture, and Literature—Among the Crypts
On October 26 at 11:00 AM, explore the closed Salgótarjáni Street Jewish Cemetery in a guided architectural tour. Discover the astonishing memorials designed by Béla Lajta, see the mythical Turul bird at Vilmos Vázsonyi’s grave, and learn about Jewish funeral traditions that few ever witness. The walk also weaves in scriptural and literary readings. Led by Dr. László Negyela and journalist Dávid Zubreczki, tickets cost $9.30, or $7.90 with a friend card.
Theater Legends and Quiz Nights
Interested in theater? The Óbuda Synagogue presents a four-part series beginning October 27 at 11:00 AM, exploring stage legends like Dezső Garas, Éva Ruttkai, and Gyula Kabos—all Jewish actors who shaped Hungarian stage and screen. Hear never-before-told stories and explore rare recordings, even for superfans. The final session on December 8 will be a quiz showdown on all you’ve learned. Tickets are $5.30, or $4.25 with a friend card.
Deep Dives: Graduate Seminars and Book Clubs
October 27’s graduate seminar at the Ashkenazium focuses on Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik’s profound 1965 essay, “The Lonely Man of Faith.” The class examines the tension between humanity’s creative and covenantal aspects through classic and modern sources, from the Torah to Heidegger. Email info@ashkenazium.eu for registration.
On October 29, a book club season kicks off with “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close”—the acclaimed novel by Jonathan Safran Foer, a heart-wrenching meditation on trauma, loss, and hope. The club promises thoughtful discussion for both newcomers and passionate readers.
