A story by Nina Begesh, a communications and administration professional and a holder of the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. Nina is of Hungarian origin on her father’s side and she has been living in Hungary since 2023. She strongly identifies with Hungarian culture, traditions, and values, and supports the mission of Hungarian communities across borders to preserve cultural identity and build meaningful connections within the global Hungarian network.

Many people say that summer is the best season of the year. I understand why, but for me the most special month in Hungary is actually September.

After the relaxed rhythm of summer, I always look forward to the beginning of autumn. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the hottest days are already behind us. It is the perfect time to spend hours outside without searching for shade every few minutes.

September is also the season of abundance. Markets are full of fresh vegetables and fruit. Sweet grapes hang beautifully on the vines, apples and pears are ready to be picked, and everywhere you can feel that nature has reached one of its most generous moments of the year.

Living in Etyek, I especially enjoy seeing the vineyards at this time. The rows of grapevines become incredibly beautiful, and you can feel that the harvest season is beginning. It is one of those landscapes that always makes me stop for a moment and simply admire it.

For many Hungarians, the swimming season is already coming to an end by September. But for me, it certainly is not! The water is still pleasantly warm, especially at Lake Balaton, and I love that the beaches become quieter. There are fewer tourists, more space, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes every swim even more enjoyable.

Budapest also changes in September. After the quieter summer months, the city comes alive again. Students from all over the world arrive to begin a new academic year, and suddenly you hear so many different languages while walking through the streets. I have always loved this international atmosphere. It reminds me of my own student years and of how exciting it is to start a new chapter.

Cafés become busy again, university campuses fill with energy, and the city feels full of ideas, conversations, and new beginnings.

For me, September is the perfect balance. It still carries the warmth of summer, but also the fresh feeling of autumn and the excitement of a new season.

Every year, when September arrives, I feel the same quiet happiness. It reminds me that some of the most beautiful moments in Hungary are not always found during the busiest months, but during this peaceful transition between summer and autumn.

by Begesh Nina