We’re excited to share that the Tulipán Foundation, in collaboration with the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath), brought the vibrant spirit of Carnival to New York City with a special Hungarian twist. This unique event blended the lively traditions of Carnival with the rich intersection of art, culture, and mathematics, offering an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.
The evening began with a creative journey into the world of traditional Hungarian Carnival masks. Under the expert guidance of professional folk artists from Hungary, participants crafted their own masks, learning about the centuries-old tradition of mask-making that has adorned festivals for generations. These beautifully decorated masks became cherished take-home creations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Hungarian culture.
A playful addition to the festivities was the crafting of traditional noise-making equipment, an essential element of Hungarian Carnival celebrations. Participants of all ages enjoyed building and using these instruments, which added to the lively atmosphere of the evening, replicating the joyful noise that is central to Hungarian Carnival customs.
In a whimsical nod to Carnival fun, the event also featured a doughnut-eating contest. Contestants faced the humorous challenge of devouring doughnuts hanging from strings—without using their hands. Laughter and excitement filled the room as everyone joined in this sweet and entertaining competition, capturing the lighthearted spirit of Carnival.
As the evening progressed, live Hungarian folk music set the stage for an energetic round of traditional Hungarian folk dancing. Guests were invited to join in the dance, learning the intricate steps that make this cultural tradition so vibrant. What made the experience even more special was the opportunity to explore the hidden mathematical principles behind the dance—patterns, sequences, and symmetry were all woven into the choreography, highlighting the fascinating connection between culture and mathematics.
In keeping with our mission to share Hungarian culture, attendees left with something special to make the event even more memorable while offering an educational experience. Each goodie bag included a Tulipán Foundation brochure detailing the origins of Carnival and its unique Hungarian traditions, along with a fun puzzle and authentic handcrafted Busó fridge magnets brought in from Hungary. These thoughtful gifts allowed guests to take home a piece of the celebration and continue learning about Hungary’s rich cultural heritage.
This one-of-a-kind Carnival celebration reminded us of the beautiful connections between art, tradition, and mathematics. We are proud to have brought this enriching cultural experience to life alongside MoMath, blending the wonders of Hungarian heritage with the intriguing world of math in a way that left a lasting impression on all who attended.