20th of August is the largest national holiday in Hungary. Each year this day we celebrate the foundation of the state, which was over 1000 years ago. At the same time, the 20th of August is also a religious holiday: the Catholics celebrate the day of the first patron of Hungary, St. Stephen – which is the reason masses are hosted countrywide that day. And last but not least, the 20th of August also marks the Hungarian Festival of the New Bread: the blessing and slicing of a freshly baked loaf of bread is a widespread ceremony in the country that day and even across the border, in Transylvania.
How to celebrate 20th of August in Budapest in 2024?
1. Air Parade
This is a stunning display taking place to the backdrop of the imposing and majestic Hungarian Parliament building. As part of the parade, planes fly low over the Danube river and through the bridges. Amazing vehicles and spectacular tricks are displayed- it’s quite a show and an amazing stop for your 1-day city centre holiday program. (Catch it between 9-10 am)
2. Festival of Folk Arts
After the Air & Water Parade, you can climb straight up to Buda Castle, that is occupied by Hungarian Folk artists with the largest Folk festival and market of Budapest. You can enjoy traditional foods and cakes, buy amazing handmade clothing and jewelry, try pottery, basketry, archery and many more. (It’s open between 17-20 August)
3. Csárdafestival – The Flavors and Rhythms of Hungarian Spirit at Vörösmarty Square
Bread baked in a show oven for St. Stephen’s Day, roasted piglet, sausage stuffing, steaming lecsó in a giant pan, and flavorful Hungarian music: the Csárdafestival invites you to four days of celebration in the heart of the city. From August 17 to 20, inns offering mouth-watering dishes of traditional Hungarian cuisine, and from Sunday, stage programs – folk songs, gypsy music, folk music and dance performances, as well as table music – await visitors at Vörösmarty Square.
4. Vigadó Piano – A Musical Journey Tuned to Bar Piano at Vigadó Square
The finest Hungarian bar pianists along with the most popular hits and a stunning Danube panorama with the Buda Castle in the background, await those strolling to Vigadó Square for the Vigadó Piano programs over three days. From August 18 to 20, the tunes of French chansons, classics, American bar music, and Hungarian hits tuned to the piano will make the holiday weekend at the Danube Promenade an extraordinary experience.
5. Golden Train Exhibition – Royal Treasures on Alkotmány Street
From August 18 to 20, visitors can get up close to national treasures such as the Holy Crown and scepter at the Golden Train exhibition on Alkotmány Street. Although the impressive train set built in 1938 was destroyed during World War II, it was reconstructed in 2020, restoring its former glory. In addition to viewing the Golden Train, visitors can also listen to hourly presentations about our national relics and the history of the crown guards.
6. Panorama Classical – Classical Music Picnic on Gellért Hill
You can listen to classical melodies performed by symphonic and contemporary orchestras while lounging comfortably in beanbags, under the cozy light of string lamps after dark, all while enjoying one of Budapest’s most beautiful panoramas. From August 18 to 20, Panorama Classical promises a unique live music concert experience: classic works and film melodies performed by Hungarian music orchestras.
7. Cities’ Promenade – The Diversity of Hungarian Culture on Alkotmány Street
Taking selfies with your city’s flag with the Parliament in the background – this unique experience awaits you from August 18 to 20 on Alkotmány Street at the Cities’ Promenade, where the flags of all 348 cities in Hungary pay tribute to the holiday of state foundation. Besides the flags, information totems representing all of Hungary’s counties, the capital, the nation, and cities from historic Hungary beyond the border showcase the diversity of Hungarian culture.
8. Fashion & Design Festival – A Celebration of Creativity at Millenáris Park
The best of Hungarian fashion designers and artisans will be showcased from August 18 to 20 at Millenáris Park during the Fashion & Design Festival. During this three-day celebration of creativity, visitors can attend contemporary and classical literary performances, discussions featuring prominent figures from the music and theater world, and additionally, watch screenings of Hungarian contemporary films.
9. The main attraction: the largest fireworks show in Europe
Each year this day Hungary celebrates with legendary fireworks & light show. The show is visible from almost all Budapest and is set up along the banks of the Danube and even from boats on the river. The riverbanks are usually full of tens of thousands of residents, expats and tourists who flock to the city centre to enjoy the show. Fireworks, light shows, drone shows and more- this event is truly the crowning jewel of the 20th of August celebrations. (The firework show starts at 9pm and you can enjoy it right from the city center river bank, Buda hills or neighboring rooftop bars for best view. The easiest option is to just go right to the river bank (around Chain’s Bridge, Parliament, Margaret Bridge etc) you’ll see the crowd!)
If you want to enjoy 20th of August to the fullest, check out some guides and choose from the 60+ programs happening all weekend this year. Or just wander around Budapest, you’ll surely bump into exciting programs at every corner!