Experience Hajdúszoboszló’s fiery Farsang: busó parade, drums, masks, and bonfire at Saint Stephen Park, Feb 28, 2026. Free, family-friendly folk carnival welcoming spring with tradition and fire rituals.
when: 2026. February 26., Thursday
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On February 28, 2026, Hajdúszoboszló lights up Saint Stephen Park (Szent István Park) with “Télűzés a busókkal,” a joyful, tradition-filled carnival where locals and visitors chase winter away with drums, masks, and fire. The city’s unique Carnival (Farsang) promises big smiles, loud rhythms, and an immersive folk experience, all free to join.
Where and When
The celebration unfolds in Saint Stephen Park (Szent István Park), 4200 Hajdúszoboszló, on Saturday, February 28, 2026. No tickets, no fees—just show up and dive into the fun.
Parade and Fire Rituals
Expect the iconic busó parade kicking off at the far end of Matthias Corvinus Promenade (Mátyás király sétány) and rolling into Saint Stephen Park (Szent István Park). Once the masks arrive, the night heats up with fire dancing, live rhythms, and a roaring bonfire. Fire jugglers take the stage, and the symbolic scarecrow (kiszebáb)—stuffed with winter’s woes—goes up in flames, making way for spring.
Good to Know
You’ll find program details, schedules, and information on food, drinks, and accommodations on-site and from the organizers. Organizers reserve the right to change times and programs. Come celebrate and send winter packing.
2025, adrienne
Pros
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Free, high-energy carnival vibes with drums, masks, and fire make it super fun for families and easy on the wallet
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Family-friendly parade and open park setting mean kids can roam, watch fire jugglers, and enjoy a big bonfire in a safe, festive space
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Hungarian busó/“winter-chasing” tradition is a rare, authentic folk experience most Americans won’t find at home
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Hajdúszoboszló is a known spa town in Hungary, so you can pair the event with thermal baths for a full weekend
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No Hungarian needed—visual spectacle, music, and clear on-site info make it easy to follow along
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Easy logistics: free entry, central park location, and straightforward driving from Debrecen; public transport via Debrecen–Hajdúszoboszló links is manageable
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Compared to Mardi Gras or European carnivals, this is more intimate and ritual-focused, so you get closer to the performers and traditions
Cons
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Hajdúszoboszló isn’t a globally famous city, so first-time visitors may need extra planning versus Budapest-based events
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International name recognition of the busó tradition is low, so expectations may need framing if you’re used to big-ticket carnivals
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Late-winter outdoor event means cold weather and smoke from bonfires—less comfy for small kids or sensitive travelers
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Public transport at night can be limited, and driving/parking near the park during peak hours may be tricky
