Saint Stephen's Day Ceremony on Kossuth tér
The official celebrations begin in the morning on Kossuth tér in front of Parliament, where the Hungarian flag is raised in front of Parliament during the traditional state ceremony. It's one of the most symbolic moments of the day, offering visitors a glimpse into Hungary's national traditions in one of Budapest's most iconic settings. If you're planning to attend, it's worth arriving early to secure a good spot.
Details here
Open Day at the Hungarian Parliament
From 20 to 22 August, visitors can explore the Hungarian Parliament free of charge as part of the St. Stephen's Day celebrations. Beyond admiring one of Budapest's most impressive landmarks from the inside, you'll also have the chance to see the Holy Crown of King St. Stephen, one of Hungary's most important historical treasures, displayed beneath the building's iconic dome. Free entry makes this one of the holiday's most popular programmes, so expect queues and plan to arrive early.
Details here
Festival of Folk Arts in Buda Castle
From 20 to 23 August, the Festival of Folk Arts returns to Buda Castle, bringing together nearly a thousand artisans, folk artists and craftspeople from Hungary and abroad. Browse handmade ceramics, textiles, jewellery and traditional crafts, watch live demonstrations and enjoy folk music, dance performances and family-friendly activities throughout the historic Castle District. This year's guest country is the United States, while pottery takes centre stage as the festival's featured craft. Admission is free.
Street of Hungarian Flavours at Várkert Bazaar
If you'd like to discover Hungary through its cuisine, head to the Street of Hungarian Flavours at Várkert Bazaar. The country's biggest gastronomic festival brings together regional specialities, artisan producers and small-scale makers, with everything from cheeses, cured meats and fresh bread to jams, honey and wine. It's also the first chance to try the 2026 Cake of Hungary, its sugar-free counterpart and the official St. Stephen's Day Bread, while concerts, family programmes and riverside festivities complete the experience.
Details here
Military Showcase in City Park
On 20 and 21 August, City Park (Városliget) hosts one of the holiday's most interactive programmes, offering visitors a close-up look at the Hungarian Defence Forces. Modern military vehicles, including the Leopard 2A7HU tank and Lynx infantry fighting vehicle, will be on display alongside live demonstrations, military dog shows, combat displays and hands-on activities such as laser tag, VR simulators, drone courses and camouflage face painting. While you're there, don't miss the opportunity to visit Vajdahunyad Castle, which will be open to the public free of charge during the celebrations.
Details here
Air Parade over the Danube
Following the flag-raising ceremony and military officer graduation on Kossuth tér, the skies above the Danube become the stage for the traditional Air Parade. Watch Hungarian Air Force helicopters and military aircraft perform impressive aerial displays over the river, visible from both the Buda and Pest embankments. Drawing thousands of spectators every year, it's one of the most spectacular daytime events of the St. Stephen's Day celebrations.
Details here
Family programme on Margaret Island
On 20 and 21 August, Margaret Island transforms into a giant outdoor playground with the return of the free Family Experience Island. From baby play areas, creative workshops and circus activities to giant bubble shows, inflatable obstacle courses and interactive games, there's plenty to keep children of all ages entertained. Live concerts as part of the Sziget Beats programme add to the festive atmosphere during the day, while the beautifully illuminated Light Garden in the Rose Garden provides a magical setting for an evening stroll.
Details here
Creative Festival at Millenáris
Creativity takes centre stage at the Creative Festival, held at Millenáris during the St. Stephen's Day celebrations. Discover the work of Hungarian fashion and design talents, browse unique pieces from local makers and take part in hands-on workshops ranging from crafts and beauty to toy design. Whether you're looking for inspiration, shopping for something original or keen to try a new creative activity, it's a colourful stop that's well worth adding to your holiday itinerary.
Details here
Fireworks over the Danube
Beginning at 9 pm, the show combines fireworks, drones, light projections and music across the Danube, creating one of Europe's largest pyrotechnic spectacles. Popular viewing spots include the embankments around Parliament, Batthyány tér, the Castle District and Gellért Hill, although wherever you choose to watch, arriving well before sunset is highly recommended.
(Cover photo: Csudai Sándor - We Love Budapest)
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