If you’re in Keszthely and thinking your calendar looks a little too empty this fall, Festetics Palace (Festetics-kastély) and its many exhibition sites have you more than covered. Whether you want hands-on family fun, culture, dancing, cars, history, mystery, or just a relaxing boat ride on Lake Balaton (Balaton), there’s truly something for everyone from August through November. Here’s the ultimate guide so you don’t miss the best of what’s coming up.
Brick Worlds and Imagination Unleashed
From August 25 to 31, step into the colorful “World of Bricks” (Kockák Világa) exhibition at the Amazon House Visitor Center (Amazon Ház Látogatóközpont). Fantasy and childhood dreams come to life with creative dioramas built from tiny bricks – yes, that’s fancy Lego for kids and adults alike. Wander through Pirate Island, explore both summer and winter in Friends World, marvel at custom-built sailboats, meet heroes of the Wild West, and relive Star Wars’ legendary Hoth battle scene. This interactive world is perfect for all ages, so don’t miss it!
History House: Play Like It’s the Past
Throughout late August, the History House (Történelmi Játszóház) goes all out with thematic fun. On August 28, it’s animal trivia quiz day – give your brain a workout and brush up on your knowledge of creatures, from cats to who knows what else. August 29 brings the Treasure Hunt Game, racing through palace halls and out into the gardens. Then, on August 30, competition heats up. Take part in an UNO Party (no need to hide your competitive streak!) and get crafty on Green Day with upcycling, napkin art, and rock painting.
Murder Mysteries, Car Shows, and a Full Cultural Palette
Want to channel your inner Sherlock? On August 30, join a popular sold-out interactive Castle Crime Night, where Hungary’s top 50 amateur detectives (or those who think they could be) attempt to solve a mystery in the palace’s atmospheric halls.
Car enthusiasts and vintage fans will love the “Festetics Concours d’Elegance” on September 6–7, a classic car beauty contest for pre-1960 vehicles that brings old-school glamour back to Keszthely. Later in September, the town comes alive with events – from “Night of Museums” (Múzeumok Éjszakája) on September 20 to “Keszthely Dance Panorama” (Keszthelyi Táncpanoráma, September 11–14). Here, a flurry of professional dance troupes, from Fitos Dezső Ensemble’s “Transylvania Express” to GG Dance Eger’s “Café Brasil,” take the stage. Dance and theater lovers can enjoy everything from contemporary performances to jazzy musical acts.
Nature Escapes and Outdoor Games
Throughout September and October, you can join guided canoe tours and nature walks at the Little Balaton Visitor Center (Kis-Balaton Látogatóközpont). Hike out to the István Fekete Memorial (Fekete István-emlékhely, dedicated to the beloved Hungarian author) and Uncle Matula’s hut (Matula bácsi kunyhója) on Diás Island (Diás-sziget). If you prefer the water, daily pleasure cruises set off from the harbor, offering a fresh perspective on Lake Balaton’s legendary scenery.
Younger visitors (or playful adults) will enjoy recurring “Outdoor Play” weeks sprinkled throughout the schedule. Think classic garden games, fresh air, and a chance to unwind away from screens.
A Packed Calendar of Theatre, Comedy, and Stargazing
Culture lovers are in for a treat. Powerful plays and musicals are in full swing: from “Peter Pan” (Pán Péter) to the Agatha Christie-inspired “Ackroyd Murder” (Gyilkosság Ackroydéknál), and modern productions like “Scenes from a Marriage” (Jelenetek a házasságból) by Szeged Contemporary Ballet (Szegedi Kortárs Balett). It’s not all highbrow – hilarious evenings such as Péter Janklovics and Dániel Mogács’s one-man comedy shows will light up September and October, with tickets ranging from $15 to $22.
There’s even more, from creative workshops (such as one-day upholstery masterclasses) to major cultural openings like the Flow Balaton multi-arts exhibition. On September 7, bring your telescope for a full lunar eclipse viewing right on the lakeshore.
Concerts and Community Gatherings
As autumn deepens, enjoy musical evenings with the Lovasi Trio (Lovasi Trió) in November ($16–$21), Zorán’s much-anticipated concert tour ($41), or join the World Travelers’ Club (Világjárók Klubja) for colorful lectures on distant lands such as Africa.
And There’s Still More…
With scheduled walking tours, recurring program recommendations, DIY workshops, and boat cruises, Festetics Palace’s 2025 autumn is a wide-open invitation. Bring your curiosity, your appetite for fun, and a good calendar app – you’ll need it. Whether you’re coming for nostalgia, seeking family adventures, or a bit of culture, Keszthely really has a season you won’t want to miss.
