Bartók Spring International Arts Weeks

The Bartók Spring International Arts Weeks, inaugurated in the spring of 2021 to commemorate the 140th anniversary of the birth of Béla Bartók, is a distinctive event series devoted to the arts. Presented by Müpa Budapest, it seeks to embody Bartók’s spirit, creativity, and perspective across a wide range of genres, including contemporary classical music, world music, jazz, dance, visual art, and pop music. The festival features the works of top international and Hungarian artists and aims, in collaboration with Hungarian and European partner institutions, to enhance Hungary’s appeal as a cultural tourism destination. Initially launched during the pandemic, the first festival was exclusively digital but received significant acclaim, showcasing concerts and performances on digital platforms.

The festival covers Budapest and extends to other major Hungarian cities such as Miskolc, Debrecen, and Győr, making it a national event that adds richness and diversity to Hungary’s cultural scene. Organizers face challenges such as dealing with unexpected changes in international tour schedules but work closely with great partners to overcome these hurdles. The festival’s programming includes a wide array of performances ranging from theatrical and dance premieres to concerts featuring classical music, new circus, and world music, celebrating both Hungarian culture and Béla Bartók’s enduring influence. Special events have paid tribute to Bartók’s work and research in folk music, presenting innovative projects that explore various aspects of his legacy.

Venues for the festival in Budapest include well-known cultural spaces such as Müpa, the Franz Liszt Music Academy, the Budapest Music Center, and the recently reopened Opera House. Organizers are always in search of new venues that can connect with the festival, aiming to offer a rich and varied programme that integrates with Budapest’s cultural landmarks.

Bartók Spring Festival – Program 2024