We were honored to co-organize two unforgettable Carnival celebrations at the Hungarian House in New York City, in collaboration with the Hungarian Parent-Teacher Association. These special events brought the magic of Farsang to life, offering a rare opportunity to experience beloved traditions outside of Hungary.
The morning festivities welcomed families into a vibrant celebration, where children and parents alike donned colorful masks and costumes to bid farewell to winter. As in past years, immersive cultural experiences took center stage, from crafting traditional masks and noisemakers to a captivating presentation on Busójárás, the famous Hungarian tradition featuring Busó masks and the festivities in Mohács.
No Farsang celebration would be complete without a bit of friendly competition, and the much-anticipated costume parade and doughnut-eating contest delivered just that. With parents and kids vying to finish their doughnuts without using their hands, the room erupted in laughter and cheers, capturing the playful spirit of the day.
As night fell, the festivities continued with an evening of Hungarian Carnival revelry. Attendees arrived ready to embrace the rich traditions of Farsang, surrounded by music, dance, and traditional Hungarian flavors. An in-depth look at the history of Busójárás provided fascinating insights into this unique custom, while hands-on crafting stations allowed guests to create their own traditional masks and noisemakers.
Our Hungarian snack trays were a showstopper—overflowing with authentic flavors that transported everyone straight to a festive gathering in Hungary. However, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the live folk music and dancing. Whether seasoned dancers or enthusiastic newcomers, everyone took to the floor, moving to the lively rhythms that filled the room.
From morning to night, the Hungarian House was alive with the magic of this centuries-old tradition. The energy was infectious, embodying the true spirit of Farsang—joy, renewal, and togetherness.