For the 82nd time, Budapest will get a taste of the countryside as the National Agricultural and Food Industry Exhibition and Fair (OMÉK – Országos Mezőgazdasági és Élelmiszeripari Kiállítás és Vásár) takes over the HUNGEXPO Congress and Exhibition Center from September 18 to 21, 2025. The event, held every two years, gives both city dwellers and rural visitors a full-spectrum experience of Hungarian agriculture and the food industry in the form of a vibrant, family-friendly festival.
Meet the Full Spectrum of Hungarian Agriculture
With nearly 150 years of history, OMÉK is Hungary’s most significant agricultural event. Since 2011, it has been organized biennially, bringing together every segment of the agricultural sector for several action-packed days. Both professionals and the public flock to the fair—making it a prime opportunity for networking among Hungary’s agri-industry leaders, domestic and international buyers, and businesses looking for new deals. In 2025, the spotlight will shine especially brightly on the hard work of Hungarian farmers.
Business and Innovation in the Spotlight
The Hungarian Food Summit returns as a central event, following the massive success of its debut two years ago. Expectations are high: around 80–100 domestic food exporters will participate, hoping to connect with about 200 international buyers in targeted B2B meetings. For professionals, OMÉK is a must for networking, innovation, and deal-making.
But the weekend belongs to everyone. OMÉK boasts the largest small-scale farmers’ market in Central Europe, a dedicated Hungarikum (uniquely Hungarian products) stand, children’s and family programs, hands-on workshops, and live culinary demonstrations—all expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors. OMÉK opens a window for all ages into the everyday life and latest innovations of Hungary’s agricultural and food sectors.
Going Digital: Smart Farming and the Future
One of today’s hottest topics, digitization in agriculture, gets its own spotlight with a special professional conference at OMÉK. On opening afternoon, the Ministry of Agriculture will host the “Smart Technology, Green Future – Modernization Solutions Serving Agriculture” conference. The agenda: outlining trends, opportunities, and real-world examples of agricultural digitization, with a focus on both Hungarian and European advancements.
Key discussions will cover how digital technology can be combined with innovation to boost efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness, and support a successful generational change in farming. Panelists will showcase practical solutions in field crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and horticulture. Special attention will be given to integrating knowledge across generations and sharing experiences from the current cycle of the Common Agricultural Policy. The aim? To equip farmers with actionable insights for their future plans.
Pavilion Map: Navigate the Rural Universe
– Pavilion A: Meet key players from the food and agri-economy (producers, processors, distributors, retail chains), see machinery demonstrations, and attend the business-focused Hungarian Food Summit and other Ministry-sponsored programs.
– Pavilion B: Animal showcase—get up close with livestock and animals from Hungarian farms.
– Pavilion C: Conference central, hosting professional forums, roundtables, and specialist lectures on September 18–19.
– Pavilion D: Stalls from small-scale producers with hand-made food and crafts, family farms, and a main stage featuring concerts, children’s shows, and craft workshops. Here, you’ll also find the “MentesFeszt” (Allergen-Free Festival) section and protected national heritage producer displays.
– Pavilion E: Treasures of the Carpathian Basin Market and Hungarikum Show. Civil organizations from the region bring their local specialties, while cultural programs, fashion shows, folk music, and dance keep visitors entertained. Legendary Hungarikum products—all under one roof—from Tokaj Aszú (Tokaji aszú) wine to Gyula Sausage (Gyulai kolbász), Pálinka, Halas Lace (Halasi csipke), and the famous Busó masks (Busó maszkok).
– The Passage (“Gastro Street” – Gasztroutca): Grab a bite from food trucks and street food stalls between the pavilions.
Family Fun and Expert Talks
Each day, Pavilion D’s main stage offers non-stop action. From opening Thursday—where experts discuss seed saving, agroecology, medicinal plants, and the truth about herbal products—to concerts like Smart Band, children’s groups, and discussions on nutrition myths, sustainable gardening, and organic crops. Look forward to performances by groups like Alma and Buborék, folk-dance shows, cooking workshops, and presentations on traditional crafts and the latest in agri-tech.
Tickets and Entry
Tickets are surprisingly affordable: regular day tickets are about $2.75, family passes (two adults, children under 18) are $5.50, and children under 6 get in free. Use HUNGEXPO Gates I or III for entry.
A heads-up for pet owners: please leave your four-legged friends at home this year. With infectious animal diseases on the rise, OMÉK is making animal health a top priority, and pets aren’t allowed on site.
Mark your calendars—September 18–21, Budapest—OMÉK 2025 is where city meets countryside, tradition greets innovation, and the whole family gets a taste of Hungary’s agricultural heartbeat.
