From November 6 to 8, 2026, Budapest’s Hungexpo Congress and Exhibition Center turns into carp-fishing heaven. PontyShow 2026 returns as Central Europe’s biggest carp angling expo, drawing close to 100 exhibitors and showcasing the most popular Hungarian and international brands. Expect three packed days of gear, deals, talks, and live demos that promise to lure in everyone from weekend dabblers to die-hard carpers.
Where to Find It
The show takes over Hungexpo Budapest, in District 10 (Kőbánya), at Albertirsai út 10, 1101 Budapest. The venue’s sprawling halls make room for the latest rods, reels, bite alarms, bivvies, baits, boats, and tech that are changing the way anglers plan, cast, and land big carp.
Why Anglers Make the Trip
PontyShow has grown into the region’s must-visit carp event because it blends a trade show’s muscle with an angler meet-up’s atmosphere. Major brands roll out product premieres and big expo-only discounts. Hungarian specialists share know-how tailored to local waters, while international names bring broader trends, from stealth rigs and PVA tactics to sonar mapping and minimalist session setups. The program is built around onstage presentations and practical demonstrations—expect tips on baiting strategies, long-range casting techniques, rig safety, fish care, and season-specific tactics for pressured lakes.
Deals That Reel You In
Big “show price” banners are half the fun. Exhibitors come ready to move stock before winter: look for bundles on rods and reels, cut-price electronics, bulk bait offers, and last-season apparel at deep discounts. If you’re kitting out for next spring’s campaign, this is the moment to sort your barrow with everything from hooklink materials and leads to storm poles and sleep systems.
Talks, Demos, and Hands-On Learning
The stage program is the show’s beating heart. Speakers break down modern carping without the jargon, and demo zones let you watch rigs tied step by step. New-angler sessions cover essentials like knot reliability, rig mechanics, bait choice across water temps, and care for fish on the mat. Veterans can dig into refined topics—barometric pressure effects, mapping swims with wireless sonar, marginal patrol paths in ultra-clear venues, and the pros and cons of fashionable lead-free leaders. Expect interactive Q&As where you can troubleshoot your exact venue or method.
Plan Your Stay Nearby
Staying close to Hungexpo makes the early doors and late deals easier to catch. There are a handful of options in and around Kőbánya:
– Budget-friendly camping and simple stays in Budapest’s green pockets promise clean, quiet surroundings year-round. These pared-back options appeal to anglers who’d rather save the big money for gear.
– Expo Tower by Mellow Mood Hotels rises about 197 feet above the city and sits right next door to Hungexpo. Guests get wide-angle views—best from the top-floor Exploré Sky Bar—plus elegant, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and smoke-free policies. A relaxation wing with Finnish and infrared saunas and a steam cabin helps you unwind after a day on your feet. A modern fitness room is free for guests. Conference rooms support business travelers, while the hotel restaurant serves Hungarian favorites and international dishes. Parking and Wi‑Fi are complimentary.
– Milky Way Hotel at Monori Center offers four-star rooms and standout Chinese cuisine at the adjoining Milky Way Restaurant. With Üllői út and the Ferihegy express route nearby, the airport is within easy reach. Rooms range from twin and double with optional extra beds to a nine-bed dorm that suits students and budget groups.
– Traditional inns in the area keep it simple with rooms that have either private bathrooms or sink-only washrooms. Their policy is straightforward: tailor offers to guests’ needs and budgets, and close deals where everyone walks away satisfied.
Eat Well Around Kőbánya
If you’re hungry between seminars or closing sales, the neighborhood feeds you right:
– A specialist spot champions a uniquely Hungarian dish—nowhere else does it quite like this—guarding secret spice blends, homestyle vegetable stews, mains, and desserts. The point is singular, unmistakable flavor you can only get there.
– Kő Café Coffeehouse & Restaurant at the Kőbánya Children and Youth Center serves giant sweet and savory crêpes, a rotating lunch menu, and coffee specials—easy comfort food within a quick hop of the venue.
– Okay Italia at the Árkád Shopping Center keeps it classic with authentic Italian fare, ideal for a quick sit-down after a long browse on the show floor.
– A local self-service canteen seats about 30 inside and another 30 in the garden. Breakfast runs 6–10 a.m., then 20–25 hot dishes daily until 4 p.m., including fresh-grilled options, calorie-conscious picks, and vegetarian plates, all in a homey setting rather than fast-food haste.
– Traditional restaurants focus on hearty Hungarian cuisine with small detours into other national kitchens. Menus evolve with guest requests—if regulars love it and it’s doable, it often lands on the menu.
– Zila Vendéglő (Zila Restaurant), an intimate Kőbánya stalwart, changes menus seasonally, pairing Hungarian and international specialties with a sommelier-curated wine list that matches the kitchen’s rhythm.
Tickets and Links
Online ticketing, contact details, website, and social pages are available via the event’s info channels. Note: in some basic listings, links and contacts may appear inactive; use the information request button to reach organizers directly.
Organizers reserve the right to change the date and program.
