Keszthely’s Balaton Theatre rolls out a sharp 2026 lineup packed with free lectures, deep dives into criminal minds, and hands-on parenting insights. Events run in multiple halls inside the venue at 3 Main Square (Fő tér 3), with programs spanning February to March and mixing hard science, psychology, and world travel. Entry is free for most sessions; two evening talks are ticketed in USD.
Pollinators on a Knife-Edge
February 19, 18:00, Básti Hall. The MATE Free University series brings monthly science talks to town, ranging from intelligent, precise 21st‑century farm machinery and hunting as social responsibility to beneficial soil microorganisms, microplastics in our environment, climate change and crop adaptation, and a window into animal biotechnology. On this night, Dr. Balázs Kolics presents Fragile Balance: The Sustainability of Pollination in the Age of Invasive Species, unpacking how non-native species pressure ecosystems and food systems. Hosted by MATE Georgikon Campus, the event welcomes all ages. Admission free.
Inside Serial Killers’ Minds
February 28, 19:00, Main Theatre. Ticket: $15.20. Serial Killers Unmasked – an exclusive evening with former elite homicide chief investigator Péter Doszpot and consulting psychologist Gábor Antal. They explore who serial killers really are, what drives their cruel, bizarre acts, how a psychopath thinks and whether treatment is possible, and what investigative skills crack these cases. With film clips and real case studies from infamous 20th‑century to present-day Hungarian and international files, they track how policing and psychology intertwine. Do childhood traumas make a killer? What does science say, and what do field veterans know? Two experts, two angles, a singular jolt. Tickets range $15.20–$15.20.
Globetrotter Club: Mexico to Panama
March 2, 18:00, Simándy Hall. Presenter: Győző Istenes. Over 30 years of roaming distilled into original photos and lived stories of Central American culture from Mexico to Panama. Admission free.
Tuesday With Me: Szilvia Gyanó
March 3, 18:00, Simándy Hall. A candid conversation with ethnographer Szilvia Gyanó about the person behind the profession, hosted by Zoltán Csányi. Admission free.
Preteens, Teens, and Real Connection
March 10, 18:00, Main Theatre. Ticket: $11.60. Psychologist, trainer, and lecturer Dr. Annamária Kádár presents Preteens and Teens – What Are They Like Today, and How Do We Connect With Them Well?, organized by Open Academy (Nyitott Akadémia). Practical tools for navigating modern adolescence.
