We were delighted to co-organize a Family Carnival at the Hungarian House in New York, in collaboration with the Arany János Hungarian School. This vibrant event brought the magic of Hungarian Carnival to the Hungarian American community, offering families a chance to celebrate beloved traditions that are often hard to experience outside of Hungary.
One of the highlights of the event was the Parade of Costumes, a cherished Carnival tradition. One by one, the children paraded across the stage, proudly showing off their creative costumes as they were announced to the crowd. It was a heartwarming moment, giving diaspora children the chance to experience a festive tradition they might otherwise miss—and the room was filled with joy as families cheered them on.
The event was packed with activities for all ages, including creating Carnival masks and making noise-making instruments, both of which are beloved Hungarian Carnival festivities. Children eagerly crafted their own masks and instruments, learning about the traditions behind these elements while creating something to take home as a keepsake.
The Carnival spirit continued with folk dancing, where families joined in traditional Hungarian dances, celebrating the festive atmosphere together. The day was also filled with Carnival games and a fun-filled doughnut-eating contest, which brought laughter and excitement as participants tried to devour doughnuts without the use of their hands—a playful challenge that added to the day's joy.
To capture the memories, a photo booth was available, allowing families to take home photos of their creative costumes and smiling faces.
This Family Carnival was a true celebration of Hungarian culture, bringing together the community for a day of fun, creativity, and tradition. We are proud to have created a space where Hungarian American families could connect with their heritage and enjoy the rich customs of Carnival, all while making lasting memories.