Get ready for an action-packed weekend in Budapest because the Nagy Sportágválasztó and Nagy Hangszerválasztó hit the Merkapt Sportközpont on May 29-30, 2026. That’s Friday and Saturday, when families, kids, and anyone curious about sports or music can dive into over 100 sports and 25 instruments, all for free—with registration required. Located at Maglódi út 12/A in the 10th district (Kőbánya), this spot opens its doors from 9:00 to 17:00 both days, turning into Hungary’s biggest free sports and music festival. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect sport, wanting to strum a guitar, or just chasing family fun, this is your chance to try it all hands-on with pro coaches and instructors.
Why This Event Rocks for Everyone
Forget just watching—here, you’re in the game. Over 100 sports from soccer and swimming to wild ones like breakdance and OCR obstacle races, all led by expert trainers. Music lovers get 25 instruments to play, from violins to drums. You’ll bump into Olympic, world, and European champions for selfies, autographs, and chats that spark inspiration. It’s perfect for kids picking sports, families seeking active weekends, school groups, or anyone open to new vibes. Friday’s mainly for pre-registered kindergartens and schools, while Saturday’s wide open to the public.
Sports Galore: From Classics to Thrills
Picture this: soccer fields buzzing, pools splashing with swimming and water polo, handball courts alive, fencing duels, kayak and canoe demos, even ballet and weightlifting sessions. Throw in breakdance battles and OCR obstacle courses with open training sessions and shows at every station. Kids and adults alike test what clicks, making it a top pick in Budapest for young athletes in training.
Meet the Stars: Champions Up Close
Every year, top athletes show up—Olympic gold medalists sharing stories, posing for pics, signing gear. For kids, it’s magic: quick talks that light a fire for sports. This personal touch sets it apart, blending fun with real motivation.
Family Fun in Full Swing
Ideal for Budapest families, everyone finds something—kids trying a variety of sports, parents joining in. It’s active downtime where little ones playfully discover moves that stick, helping families nail the right fit without pressure.
Jam Session Heaven: 25 Instruments to Try
The Nagy Hangszerválasztó shines for music newbies, especially kids. Pros demo and guide you through strings like violin, viola, cello, double bass; woodwinds including flute, recorder, clarinet, sax; brass such as trumpet, French horn, trombone; percussion from drums and hand drums to triangle and xylophone; plucked strings like guitar and bass guitar; plus keyboards like piano and cimbalom. ZeneLiget adds modern tunes and folk dances. Families bond over sounds, finding that instrument that sings to them.
Music for All Ages
From classical to contemporary, it’s a playground for ears. Kids explore what feels right, parents relive band days—pure family magic in Budapest’s music scene.
Free Entry, But Sign Up!
No cost to join the fun, but register ahead—spots fill fast for groups, families, and individuals. Schools and kindergartens get Friday priority.
Your Burning Questions Answered
When? May 29-30, 2026, 9:00-17:00. Where? Merkapt Sportközpont, 1106 Budapest, Maglódi út 12/A. Free? Yes, registration needed. Sports? 100+ like soccer to exotic fights and dances. Music? 25 instruments with expert help. Quick facts: over 100 sports trials, instrument intros, athlete shows, music gigs. Best for kids, families, sport nuts, music fans.
Who Should Go?
Everyone, really—but it’s gold for sport-choosing youth, weekend-hunting families, school trips, new-move seekers, and instrument explorers. Goal? Spark lifelong passions in sports or music, one try at a time. Budapest’s go-to for kids and crews craving over 100 sports and killer instruments under one roof.
