On May 9, 2026—a Saturday—the fifth International Ikarus Meeting returns to Tapolca for its fifth time. Kicking off in 2016, this event aims to spotlight Hungarian bus manufacturing gems right here in western Hungary. It also serves as the even-year counterpart to those legendary odd-year Ikarus gatherings in Germany. Expect a full day of nostalgic rides, jaw-dropping parades, and non-stop veteran bus action at the old Kinizsi Barracks in 8300 Tapolca. Fans of iconic Ikarus buses and vintage vehicles flock here for one of Hungary’s coolest homegrown events.
Prime Spot and Easy Rides In
The former Kinizsi Barracks in Tapolca provide the perfect playground for showing off these classic buses and hosting crowds. Getting there is a breeze, with nostalgic shuttles rolling out from multiple cities to turn your trip into pure fun. Once in town, hop on city nostalgic buses running all day. Urban nostalgic lines cruise through Tapolca from 9:30 to 14:00—grab pre-purchased tickets to ride these legendary Ikarus beasts and feel the retro vibes up close.
Parade Showstopper Through Káli Basin (Káli-medence)
The highlight? A massive bus parade at 14:30 snaking a stunning 34-km route through the breathtaking Káli Basin (Káli-medence), lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s not just for gearheads—nature lovers and thrill-seekers will eat it up too.
Non-Stop Eats, Shops, and Wins
All day long, chow down at the pop-up restaurant, snag souvenirs, T-shirts, and relics, plus try your luck in the raffle for killer prizes. Arrive in a 30-year-old-or-older veteran car? Score free entry for two and prime parking at the bus exhibit zone.
Full Rundown
Buses roll in and park from 6:30 to 8:30. Opening ceremony at 9:00. City nostalgic rides 9:30-14:00. Parade at 14:30. Raffle draw at 16:20. Event wraps up at 17:00.
Your Must-Do Spring Adventure
Perfect for Ikarus and vintage vehicle nuts, families, hikers, or anyone craving a unique Balaton Upland (Balaton-felvidék) outing. Nostalgic rides, epic parade, and chill vibes guarantee memories that stick. May 9, 2026. Tapolca.
Organizers reserve the right to tweak dates and program!
