On Sunday, July 6, the renowned Japanese Garden of the Varga Márton Horticultural and Surveying Technical School will once again come to life—this time to host the second edition of the Tanabata Festival.
This special day brings the timeless tale of the stars from Japan to Budapest, offering a serene space where culture, craft, art, and cuisine meet under the summer sky. Set against the lush backdrop of the garden, visitors will be transported into the rituals and wonders of a faraway world.
Tanabata, or “The Night of the Sevens,” is one of Japan’s most poetic summer festivals, celebrating the yearly reunion of Orihime and Hikoboshi—two star-crossed lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair, separated by the Milky Way. According to legend, they are allowed to meet only once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. This year, that moment is brought to life in the heart of Zugló on July 6.
The festival’s charm lies not only in its setting, but also in its diverse cultural programming. Visitors can expect Japanese craft workshops, cultural demonstrations, stage performances, music and dance shows, and hands-on activities. Traditional Japanese food and thematic artisan gifts will also be available throughout the day, making it an immersive celebration for all the senses.
While the full program and ticket pricing are still being finalized, one thing is already certain: the event promises a full day of meaningful family-friendly entertainment and a rare opportunity to engage deeply with Japanese culture. Tickets will be available on-site at the school entrance, and no prior registration is required—just curiosity, openness, and a love for new experiences under the “Japanese sky.”
Date: July 6, 2025
Location: Japanese Garden, Varga Márton Horticultural and Surveying Technical School, Budapest
Entry: Tickets available at the venue; prices to be announced – admission required.
