Hungarian Public Holidays in Budapest
What Are Hungarian National Holidays and How Do They Affect Travelers?
If you visit Budapest then understanding these public holidays is essential for planning your itineraries effectively.
Some holidays, such as St. Stephen’s Day (20th of August) and the 1956 Revolution Memorial Day (23rd of October), bring large-scale celebrations, parades, and fireworks, creating a fun cultural experience.
Others, like All Saints’ Day (1st of November) and Christmas, lead to business and shop closures and the city is much more quieter this time as well.
This guide provides a detailed overview of Hungary‘s public holidays, including their significance, impact on travel, and tips for experiencing Budapest during these special days.
Hungarian National Holiday List
Which Public Holidays Are Observed in Hungary?
Hungary observes several public holidays throughout the year, some of which have fixed dates, while others follow the Christian liturgical calendar.
These holidays can affect your Budapest itinerary, as major attractions, restaurants, and shops may close or operate on reduced hours.
Below is a breakdown of Hungary’s national holidays (click on each holiday’s name to know more details):
| Holiday Name | Date | Type | Impact on Travelers |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day 🎉 | 1 January | Fixed | Most businesses & attractions closed |
| 1848 March 15 Revolution | 15 March | Fixed | Parades, museum events, political speeches |
| Easter Good Friday ✝️ | Varies (March/April) | Movable | Shops closed, some Easter traditions |
| Easter Monday ✝️ | Varies (March/April) | Movable | Shops closed, some Easter traditions |
| Labor Day | 1 May | Fixed | Festivals, public transport delays |
| Whit Monday | Varies (Monday after Pentecost) | Movable | Shops closed |
| St. Stephen’s Day / State Foundation Day 🎆 | 20 August | Fixed | Fireworks, concerts, cultural events |
| 1956 Revolution Day | 23 October | Fixed | Historical reenactments, museum exhibitions |
| All Saints’ Day 🕯️ | 1 November | Fixed | Cemeteries lit with candles, quiet city |
| Christmas Holidays 🎄 | 25-26 December | Fixed | Christmas markets, major closures |
Traveler Tip from Locals
Public transport runs on a reduced schedule during most Hungarian national holidays. If you’re visiting Budapest on a holiday, plan your activities around open landmarks, local festivals, or day trips to avoid closures.
List of Public Holidays in Budapest, Hungary
Major Hungarian National Holidays & Cultural Significance
See what’s on during Hungarian national holidays. This travel guide helps you plan your Budapest itinerary, avoid unexpected closures, and experience local traditions, festivals, and cultural events. Read on to know more about each Hungarian national holiday.
1st of January
- More info on Budapest in January: Weather, Packing List, Events, What to do.
- Must-see attractions in January in Budapest – list of top things to do, experiences and activities
January 1 – New Year’s Day in Hungary (Újév)
New Year’s Day (Újév) marks the beginning of the new calendar year in Hungary. It is a public holiday, with most businesses and attractions closed as locals recover from New Year’s Eve celebrations.
How January 1st Is Celebrated in Budapest:
- Midnight fireworks over the Danube River (best views from Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion).
- New Year’s concerts at the Liszt Academy and Budapest Opera House.
- Traditional feasts featuring lentil soup (for wealth) and pork dishes (for luck).
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day:
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule with reduced service.
- Most museums, shops, and government offices remain closed.
- Best places to experience the New Year: Vörösmarty Square, Chain Bridge, St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Good to know
On January 1st, most restaurants, shops, and attractions in Budapest are closed or operate on limited hours, so plan ahead. Many locals stay in with family, and the city feels quieter—perfect for a peaceful walk along the Danube or a visit to a thermal bath.
15th of March
- See more info on weather, what to pack and what to do in Budapest in March by clicking here.
- Top things to do in March in Budapest – list of top events and activities
March 15 – Hungarian Revolution Memorial Day
March 15 marks the 1848 Hungarian Revolution, a pivotal event in Hungary’s fight for independence from the Habsburg Empire. It’s a national day of remembrance, celebrated with patriotic pride.
How 15th of March is Celebrated in Budapest:
- Museums like the Hungarian National Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and Holocaust Museum offer free admission and special exhibits.
- The Parliament holds an open day (10 AM–6 PM) showcasing the Holy Crown.
- Locals wear the red-white-green cockade (a symbol of Hungarian freedom).
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During 15th of March:
- Public transport runs on a modified schedule.
- Most businesses close, but restaurants and some attractions remain open.
- Best places to experience the holiday: Parliament Square, Buda Castle, National Museum.
Good to know
Due to outdoor gatherings and official events, expect road closures and reduced public transport services in central Budapest, especially around Kossuth Square, the Hungarian National Museum, and Buda Castle. Plan ahead and use alternative routes or metro lines for smoother travel.
Easter
- Click here to see detailed info about April in Budapest: weather, what to pack and what to do.
- Top things to do in April in Budapest – list of must-see attractions and experiences
Easter: April 18th (Good Friday) and April 21st (Easter Monday) in 2025
Easter is a major Christian holiday in Hungary, commemorating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Both Good Friday and Easter Monday are official public holidays, and many Hungarians observe traditional religious and folk customs over this extended weekend.
How Easter is Celebrated in Hungary:
- Good Friday is observed with quiet reflection and church services, especially at St. Stephen’s Basilica and Matthias Church.
- On Easter Sunday, families gather for festive meals featuring ham, boiled eggs, horseradish, and kalács (sweet bread).
- Easter Monday revives the folk tradition of “sprinkling”, where men playfully sprinkle women with perfume or water, often wearing traditional dress in open-air museums and rural-style events.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During Easter:
- Most museums and shops are closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday, but many tourist attractions stay open on Easter Sunday.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, with reduced frequency.
- Best places to experience Easter customs: Buda Castle Easter Festival, Szentendre Skanzen Open-Air Museum, and local markets offering hand-painted eggs and crafts.
Good to know
Easter Monday in Hungary features the traditional “sprinkling” custom (locsolkodás), where boys sprinkle girls with water or perfume to bring health and beauty for the year. Easter Monday is one of the most interactive Hungarian National Holidays for those interested in living Hungarian traditions.
1st of May
May 1st – Labour Day in Hungary
May 1st is Labour Day, a public holiday in Hungary dedicated to workers’ rights and historically rooted in the socialist era. It also marks the anniversary of Hungary’s EU accession (May 1, 2004).
How 1st of May (Labor Day) is Celebrated in Budapest:
- Traditional May Day festivals take place in city parks like City Park (Városliget) with family-friendly events, concerts, food stalls, and crafts markets.
- Free open-air concerts are held across Budapest, often featuring folk and pop music.
- Locals enjoy picnics, outdoor games, and leisure activities, especially if the weather is warm.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During 1st of May:
- Government offices, banks, and many shops are closed.
- Public transport operates on a holiday schedule.
- Best places to enjoy May 1st events: City Park, Margaret Island, and Tabán Festival.
Good to know
May 1st in Budapest is ideal for travelers who want to relax like a local, with outdoor festivals and concerts replacing formal ceremonies. While rooted in socialist history, today it’s a laid-back spring celebration, and a great chance to explore Budapest’s green spaces and community vibe.
Whit Monday
- Click here to see detailed info about June in Budapest: weather, what to pack and what to do.
- Top things to do in June in Budapest – list of must-see attractions and experiences
Pentecost & Whit Monday: June 8th-9th in 2025
Pentecost Sunday (Pünkösdvasárnap) and Whit Monday (Pünkösdhétfő) are important Christian holidays in Hungary, celebrated 49 and 50 days after Easter. Pentecost marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, and Whit Monday is a public holiday, giving locals a long weekend to enjoy both religious and traditional folk festivities.
How Pentecost and Whit Monday are Celebrated in Hungary:
- Church services are held on Pentecost Sunday across Budapest, especially at St. Stephen’s Basilica and inner-city parishes.
- Many towns and venues host Pünkösd festivals featuring folk music, dancing, and “May Queen” (Pünkösdi Királynő) traditions, where young girls are symbolically crowned in village-style competitions.
- Events often take place at Szentendre Skanzen Open-Air Museum, Castle Hill, and folk heritage parks.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During Pentecost and Whit Monday:
- Whit Monday is a public holiday, so most government offices and some shops are closed.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule.
- Best places to experience Pentecost customs: Szentendre Skanzen, Buda Castle, and Óbuda’s historical district.
Good to know
Pentecost weekend offers a unique opportunity for travelers to see Hungarian folk traditions in action, especially the crowning of the Pentecost Queen – a symbolic spring ritual rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. Whit Monday closures are worth noting when planning your itinerary, but cultural venues often stay open with special themed programs.
20th of August
- More info on Budapest in August: Weather, Events and What to do.
- Top things to do in August in Budapest – list of top events, experiences and activities
August 20th – St. Stephen’s Day
August 20 is St. Stephen’s Day, Hungary’s most important national holiday, commemorating the founding of the Hungarian state and honoring King Stephen I, the country’s first Christian king and state-builder. It is a public holiday and a deeply symbolic day of national pride, history, and unity.
How 20th of August is Celebrated in Budapest:
- The city hosts all-day celebrations, including the State Ceremonial Flag Raising at Kossuth Square, and the blessing of the new bread
- The day ends with Hungary’s largest fireworks show over the Danube River.
- The Parade of the Hungarian Forces and air shows over the river are major highlights, alongside folk art fairs, food festivals, and concerts around Várkert Bazár, Várkert Promenade, and the Castle District.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During August 20th:
- Government buildings, banks, and many stores are closed, but tourist venues remain open, and public events are accessible.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, and some central areas are pedestrian-only due to events.
- Arrive early to claim a good spot for the fireworks, and check for public safety zones and viewing areas.
Good to know
The Budapest Fireworks is best viewed from Gellért Hill, Buda Castle, Margaret Bridge, in boats on the Danube or the embankments.
23rd of October
- Click here to see detailed info about October in Budapest: weather, what to pack and what to do.
- Top things to do in October in Budapest – list of must-see attractions and experiences
October 23rd – Hungarian Revolution Memorial Day
October 23 is a public holiday in Hungary, marking the outbreak of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution against Soviet rule and also commemorating the 1989 proclamation of the Republic of Hungary.
How 23rd October is Celebrated in Hungary:
- Official state ceremonies take place at Kossuth Square, including the raising of the Hungarian flag, speeches by national leaders, and wreath-laying at key memorials.
- Many museums—especially the House of Terror Museum and 1956 Memorial Sites—offer free admission and special exhibitions
- Locals light candles or attend memorial events, and several districts host cultural programs, film screenings, and guided history walks.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During October 23rd:
- Government buildings, banks, and schools are closed, while many cultural venues remain open with commemorative programming.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, with increased traffic near Kossuth Square and other central locations.
Good to know
To experience the day’s significance, visit the 1956 Revolution Memorial, Memento Park, and the House of Terror Museum.
1st of November
- More details on Budapest in November: Weather, what to pack and what to do.
- Top things to do in November in Budapest – list of top events, experiences and activities
November 1st – All Saints’ Day in Hungary
November 1 is All Saints’ Day (Mindenszentek), a Christian public holiday in Hungary dedicated to honoring all saints and deceased loved ones.
How All Saints’ Day is Celebrated in Budapest:
- Families visit cemeteries—especially Fiumei Road Cemetery and Új Köztemető – to place candles, flowers, and wreaths.
- As night falls, cemeteries are softly illuminated by thousands of flickering lights.
- Churches hold special masses, and many people spend the day with family in quiet remembrance.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During November 1st:
- Government offices, banks, and many shops are closed, though some restaurants and cafes stay open.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule; expect some crowding near large cemeteries.
Good to know
For visitors, walking through Fiumei Road National Cemetery in the evening offers a unique cultural experience.
Christmas
- Budapest in December: weather, what to pack and what to do.
- Top things to do in December in Budapest – list of must-see attractions and experiences
- Christmas in Budapest – how to spend Christmas in Hungary
December 25th and 26th – Christmas in Hungary
December 25 (Christmas Day) and December 26 (Second Day of Christmas) are public holidays in Hungary, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. In Hungarian tradition, Christmas Eve (December 24) is the main day of celebration, though it is not an official public holiday, many businesses close early or remain closed entirely.
How Christmas is Celebrated in Hungary:
- On Christmas Eve, families gather for an intimate dinner – often featuring stuffed cabbage (töltött káposzta) and carp – and exchange gifts under the decorated Christmas tree.
- Many locals attend midnight mass in historic churches like St. Stephen’s Basilica or Matthias Church.
- Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and Basilica Square remain open through December 24, showcasing handcrafted goods, mulled wine, and traditional Hungarian treats.
- Festive decorations appear across major streets like Andrássy Avenue and Deák Ferenc Street.
What You Should Know if you Visit Budapest During Christmas:
- December 25 and 26 are public holidays, so shops, banks, and most restaurants are closed.
- Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, with reduced frequency on the 25th.
Good to know
Best places for the festive atmosphere: Christmas markets, Gellért Hill for city views, and evening Danube cruises with lights and carols.
Things to Take Care when You Visit During Holidays
How Do Hungarian Public Holidays Affect Tourists in Budapest?
Hungarian national holidays can affect your Budapest travel experience – shops close early, transport runs differently, and even the city’s rhythm slows down.
Are Shops and Restaurants Open on Hungarian Public Holidays?
- Most supermarkets, shops, and small businesses are closed on Hungarian public holidays.
- Tourist zones like Váci Street or Andrássy Avenue may keep cafés and souvenir shops open.
- Hotel restaurants and some chains (e.g., McDonald’s) remain open.
- Malls (e.g., Westend, Arena Mall) are usually closed on major holidays like January 1, August 20, and December 25.
What Happens to Public Transport on Holidays in Budapest?
- Budapest public transport switches to Sunday/holiday timetable on official public holidays.
- Buses, trams, and metro run less frequently.
- 100E airport bus operates on reduced schedule; check updates on bkk.hu.
- No night buses are canceled, but expect longer waiting times.
Are Museums and Attractions Closed During Public Holidays?
- Some museums and historical sites close on national holidays (especially March 15, August 20, October 23, and Christmas).
- Tourist attractions like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and St. Stephen’s Basilica may stay open with limited entry hours.
- Public holidays may include free entry or national programming (e.g., House of Terror on October 23 is often free). Always check opening hours in advance for each location.
What About Pharmacies and Emergency Services?
- Only duty pharmacies stay open during public holidays. Pharmacy signs or hotel reception list nearest open location.
- Emergency services (ambulance, police, hospitals) operate as normal, 24/7.
- For urgent medical needs, dial 112 (European emergency number).
Want to plan your visit around Hungarian holidays like a pro?
See our Travel Tips for Visiting Budapest During National Holidays for practical advice.
Choose your Travel Date Related to Public Holidays
Which Hungarian National Holidays Offer the Best Travel Experiences in Budapest?
Some Hungarian public holidays create busy travel experiences in Budapest, while others offer quiet streets and cultural depth – this section ranks them so you can choose what suits your style.
Best for Vibrant City Atmosphere
August 20 – St. Stephen’s Day
✓
Fireworks, air shows, parades create one of Budapest’s busiest and most festive days.
✓
Street fairs and concerts happen along the Danube
Things to do in August in Budapest
Best for Cultural Immersion
March 15 – National Day
✓
Folk music, traditional costumes, and free museum entry give travelers a patriotic and cultural deep-dive.
✓
Ideal for travelers who love local heritage and history.
Best for Unique Traditions
Easter Monday (Húsvéthétfő)
✓
Sprinkling (locsolkodás), egg painting, and spring festivals offer fun and family-friendly experiences.
✓
Expect cultural programs in City Park and the Hungarian Heritage House.
Best for Peace and Solitude
November 1 – All Saints’ Day
✓
Cemeteries filled with candles provide a moving, quiet experience.
✓
Fewer tourists and slower pace are ideal for relaxed city walks and local reflection.
Things to do in November in Budapest
Best for Magical Winter Vibes
December 24–26 – Christmas Holidays
✓
Christmas lights, outdoor markets, caroling transform central Budapest into a festive postcard.
✓
Great for couples, families, and winter photography lovers.
Magical December Things to do in Budapest
Want to plan your Budapest trip around the right holiday for you?
Use our handpicked itineraries – optimized for public holidays, closures, and crowd levels.
Plan your Budapest Trip with the National Holidays in Mind
How Can You Plan a Budapest Trip Around Hungarian Public Holidays?
If you’re visiting Budapest during a Hungarian public holiday, a little planning goes a long way – open hours change, crowds shift, and local traditions take center stage.
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Should You Avoid Traveling During Hungarian Public Holidays?
Public holidays in Budapest don’t require avoiding the city.
In fact, events like August 20 fireworks or March 15 ceremonies offer unique cultural value.
However, closures and limited hours require advanced planning.
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What to Book in Advance if You’re Visiting During a Holiday?
During national holidays, you should pre-book restaurants, spas, and sightseeing tours.
Examples:
- Széchenyi Baths get crowded on public holidays.
- River cruises on the Danube often run special programs and fill up quickly.
- Museums and guided walking tours may not run on specific holiday dates.
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What Should You Do on a Day When Most Things Are Closed?
If museums and stores are closed, you can enjoy outdoor experiences and cultural spots:
- Walk around Castle Hill or Gellért Hill
- Visit Heroes’ Square, City Park, or Margaret Island
- Attend public events (e.g., folk dance performances on March 15)
Local bakeries and smaller eateries often remain open for takeaway.
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How to Navigate Budapest on a Public Holiday?
Download the Budapest GO app to track public transport schedules.
Consider walking or using Bolt or Főtaxi, but expect longer wait times.
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Bonus Tip: Where to Find Open Restaurants on Holidays in Budapest?
Use Google Maps with filters like “Open Now” + area (e.g., “Open Now Restaurants near Váci Street”).
Popular picks that usually stay open:
- Mazel Tov (Gozsdu Udvar)
- Menza Restaurant (Liszt Ferenc Square)
- New York Café (Wesselényi Street)
Want a ready-made plan that works around closures and crowds?
Our Budapest Itineraries are built for real holiday conditions – museum hours, public transport changes, and all the hidden spots locals still visit.
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