Go behind the masks of Hungary's most electrifying UNESCO-listed carnival — a thunderous winter ritual of carved wooden Busó masks, sheepskin costumes, and bonfires that drives away winter on the Danube. A private local artisan opens his workshop exclusively for you.
What to expect
You step into a centuries-old courtyard where a master craftsman has spent decades carving the horned Busó masks by hand. He walks you through the folklore, lets you hold and try on a full Busó costume, and demonstrates the drum-and-rattle procession that UNESCO recognised in 2009. The atmosphere — woodshavings, lantern light, the smell of linden wood — is utterly otherworldly. Even outside carnival season, the Busoudvar keeps the ritual alive year-round for intimate visits.
Good to know
Carnival itself falls on the week before Ash Wednesday (Feb/March) — if your itinerary aligns, book months in advance as the town fills completely. Year-round, the Busoudvar courtyard is open daily; confirm your private workshop slot directly. Mohács pier is a 10-minute walk from the town centre — no transfer needed.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Mohacs — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.