Public holidays Hungary

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Hungary observes a wide range of public holidays, national commemorations, and seasonal festivals throughout the year. These holidays reflect the country’s Christian heritage, historical milestones, and regional customs. While national holidays typically result in business closures and reduced public transport, cultural attractions often remain open, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Hungarian traditions firsthand.

National Public Holidays in Hungary

  • January 1 – New Year’s Day
  • March 15 – National Day (Commemoration of the 1848 Revolution)
  • Easter Monday – date varies
  • May 1 – Labor Day
  • Whit Monday – date varies
  • August 20 – Constitution Day and Saint Stephen’s Day
  • October 23 – Republic Day (1956 Uprising and 1989 democratic transition)
  • November 1 – All Saints’ Day
  • December 25 – Christmas Day
  • December 26 – Boxing Day

Local tip: On August 20, Budapest hosts a spectacular fireworks display over the Danube River, celebrating the founding of the Hungarian state. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the embankment.

Christian Holidays and Customs

Hungarian public holidays include major Christian observances such as Easter and Christmas. Easter Monday is marked by a unique tradition where men sprinkle women with perfume or water—a symbolic gesture for health and fertility. In rural areas, this custom is still practiced with enthusiasm.

Local tip: In villages around Hollókő, Easter celebrations include folk dancing, traditional costumes, and open-air performances.

Name Days in Hungary

Name days are widely celebrated and often more significant than birthdays. Every Hungarian name corresponds to a specific day, usually linked to a saint. Celebrations include flowers, small gifts, and family gatherings.

Local tip: If you’re visiting Debrecen or Szeged during a popular name day, expect lively cafés and bakeries offering themed pastries and discounts.

Mikulás and Krampusz Traditions

Hungarian Saint Nicholas, known as Mikulás, visits children on the night of December 5. Children polish their boots and place them on the windowsill, hoping to receive sweets or small gifts. In some regions, Mikulás is accompanied by Krampusz—a devilish figure who reminds children to behave.

Local tip: In Pécs, local schools host Mikulás performances with costumed children and storytelling, open to the public.

Christmas Celebrations

Hungarian Christmas traditions begin with Advent and culminate on December 24. Families decorate trees with szaloncukor (wrapped candies), bake bejgli (rolled pastries with walnut or poppy seed filling), and attend midnight mass. Gifts are said to be delivered by “Little Jesus” (Jézuska), not Santa Claus.

Local tip: Visit the Christmas market in Vörösmarty Square, Budapest, for handmade crafts, mulled wine, and live music.

New Year’s Eve (Szilveszter)

New Year’s Eve is celebrated with parties, fireworks, and traditional foods like lentil soup (for prosperity) and hurka (blood sausage). At midnight, Hungarians sing the national anthem and toast with Törley sparkling wine.

Local tip: In Szentendre, restaurants host themed dinners with live folk music and dancing. Reservations are essential months in advance.

Seasonal and Cultural Festivals

Hungary’s calendar is filled with regional festivals that reflect local heritage:

  • March – Budapest Spring Festival: classical music, opera, and theater across Budapest, Pécs, Szeged, and Debrecen
  • May – Book Festival Week in major towns
  • June – Pentecost Festival in Pécs; Danube Day on June 29
  • July–August – Open-air opera and classical concerts in Szeged, Fertőd, and Margaret Island
  • August 20 – Flower Festival in Debrecen
  • September – Grape harvest festivals in Eger and Badacsony
  • October – Museum Month and Budapest Art Weeks
  • December – Christmas plays (Bethlemezés) in village churches

Local tip: The Anna Ball in Balatonfüred is a historic summer event featuring traditional dance and the election of a beauty queen.

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