Busójárás

Every year, just before Ash Wednesday, the town of Mohács in Hungary bursts into life with the vibrant and unique celebration known as Busójárás. This festival, deeply rooted in Šokci culture, marks the end of the Carnival season and is filled with joyous activities including folk music, parades, masquerades, and dancing.

Spanning six days in February, Busójárás features a variety of events such as the Kisfarsang carnival and Farsang vasárnap. The grand finale, known as Farsangtemetés, occurs on the following Tuesday. Recognizing its cultural significance, UNESCO added Busójárás to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.

The origins of Busójárás are narrated through two intriguing legends. The more popular tale harks back to the Ottoman occupation, where an old Šokac man advised the locals to prepare for battle by wearing terrifying masks and creating loud noises to scare away the Turks. Another, lesser-known legend suggests that the Busós aim to drive away Winter itself. Regardless of which story you prefer, the essence of the celebration remains the same, bringing people together in a spirited display of cultural heritage.

This vibrant festival isn't just a local affair; it attracts participants from neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia, as well as visitors from as far afield as Poland. Each year, the streets of Mohács are filled with the sound of music, the sight of colorful costumes, and the warmth of communal spirit, making Busójárás a truly unforgettable experience.