Quick, parents! The holiday rush is over, but January is still full of winter magic. This weekend (Jan 3-4, 2026) we’ve found some great post-Christmas wind-down options. Don't miss the Városháza Park Téli Fesztivál for a central skate session, or check out the Denevérlesen gyerekeknek if your older kids fancy a nature adventure.
Quick Picks
Városliget Ice Rink (Outdoor Skating)
Városliget
While skate rental costs money, enjoying the atmosphere and watching others skate around Vajdahunyad Castle is a wonderful (and free) sight.
Dohány utcai Zsinagóga és Zsidó Múzeum (Family Ticket)
Dohány utcai zsinagóga és Zsidó Múzeum
Explore history and art indoors with a family ticket for a substantial, educational, and warm outing.
Vitéz László vándorúton
Dörmögő Dömötör Színház -BUDAPEST - RIZ LEVENTE SPORT-, ÉS RENDEZVÉNYKÖZPONT
A classic Hungarian puppet show, perfect for introducing little ones to the magic of theatre.
Városháza Park Téli Fesztivál
The central mini-skating rink is still open in Városháza Park, surrounded by wooden stalls with warm food and drinks. It’s a super central and cosy spot to grab a *kürtőskalács* and watch the skaters before heading home.
Why we picked it: This festival is the last chance to catch the smaller, more central ice rink before it closes on Sunday.
City Park Ice Rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya)
The grandest skating experience in Europe is still running, right under the shadow of Vajdahunyad Castle. It’s cold, but nothing beats the views when the sun hits the castle walls, even in January.
Why we picked it: It's the classic Budapest winter activity and a must-do before the seasonal ice rinks close for the year.
William Blake: The Marriage of Heaven and Hell
This major exhibition on the visionary British artist William Blake is closing soon; it's a fantastic, slightly more grown-up culture fix for older kids and teens.
Why we picked it: It is the last weekend to see this high-profile exhibition before it closes on Jan 11th.
Recirquel: Kristály a Millenárison
Recirquel’s unique circus art show is a stunning visual feast, perfect for older kids and teens who appreciate spectacle and artistry. It’s an indoor event, so weather-proof!
Why we picked it: A high-quality, acclaimed Hungarian contemporary circus show, an excellent non-touristy recommendation for teens.
Denevérlesen gyerekeknek
A guided bat-watching tour offered by the National Park Directorate—a super quirky, niche event for slightly older, curious kids who don't mind the cold.
Why we picked it: A genuinely surprising, local nature program that appeals to curious older children.
Vitéz László vándorúton
Catch the classic travelling puppet show character Vitéz László in a family-friendly production. This is short, sweet, and colourful—perfect for a quick theatre hit for little ones.
Why we picked it: A traditional Hungarian puppet show focusing on a beloved character, ideal for the preschool crowd.
Micimackó fázik
A 'Winnie the Pooh is Cold' show—super cute for the very young crowd, though check travel time as the source mentions Tatabánya for this specific time slot.
Why we picked it: A gentle, familiar story adapted for the stage, great for the youngest theatre-goers.
Keménykalap és krumpliorr
A beloved Hungarian children's play—check the ticket availability, as this theatre often has shows running through the holiday break. Great for kids who love classic storytelling.
Why we picked it: A solid, known-quantity Hungarian theatre performance for the early-to-mid school age group.
Városligeti Műjégpálya (Spectating)
If you skip the rental fee, you can still soak up the incredible atmosphere around Vajdahunyad Castle. Grab a hot chocolate from a nearby stand and enjoy the winter postcard scene.
Why we picked it: The best way to enjoy the iconic ice rink without committing to the full cost/effort.
Dohány utcai Zsinagóga és Zsidó Múzeum (Family Ticket)
A powerful and educational indoor experience in Pest's Jewish Quarter. Grab the family ticket for a structured way to explore this significant historical site together.
Why we picked it: Offers a substantial, fully indoor cultural deep-dive with a specific family ticket option.
Hangfogó 2. Újévi köszöntő 25/26
A New Year's greeting concert from the Hangfogó ensemble—this is probably a slightly more modern/interactive classical concert than the big cathedral ones, aimed at engaging younger audiences.
Why we picked it: A dedicated family classical concert to ease back into the routine after New Year's.
Buda Castle District Winter Walk
Take a crisp morning walk up to Fisherman's Bastion (the upper terraces are free entry post-holiday) for breathtaking, uncrowded views over Pest. Pack a thermos of tea; it’s worth the climb!
Why we picked it: The main holiday crowds have gone, making early January the perfect time for a peaceful castle hill exploration.
Ünnepközi Vásár (Post-Christmas Fair)
The final day of the post-Christmas fair means last chance for discounted treats and a final dose of festive cheer right in the city centre. It's a great spot for a quick, easy outing.
Why we picked it: It’s the absolute last day for this seasonal market, making it a true 'last chance' event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Budapest this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04) you can enjoy a few genuinely free activities! Take a walk at the Városligeti Műjégpálya to watch the skaters (Event ID: budapest-3), or enjoy a crisp, uncrowded morning exploring the Buda Castle District terraces for amazing views (Event ID: budapest-11).
Is there anything fun and indoor in case of bad weather?
For a guaranteed dry day, consider the William Blake exhibition at the Szépművészeti Múzeum which is closing soon (Event ID: budapest-4), or the Dohány utcai Zsinagóga with their family ticket option (Event ID: budapest-5).
What's the best theatre or performance for under-5s?
For the little ones, the traditional puppet show Vitéz László vándorúton at the Dörmögő Dömötör Színház on Saturday morning (Event ID: budapest-9) is likely the best fit for preschool attention spans.