Hungary’s August 20 National Holiday: Events, Fireworks, Free Parliament Tours & More

Every year on August 20th, Hungary marks St. Stephen’s Day, celebrating the nation's founding in 1000 A.D. under King Stephen I. The holiday is a lively mix of historical ceremonies, folk traditions, culinary treats, and spectacular fireworks.

⚠️ Note: The 2025 official program hasn’t been published yet. Based on previous years—and noting that updates usually appear 2–3 weeks before—the official schedule will likely be released on szentistvannap.hu The details below give a reliable idea of what to expect.

🇭🇺 National and Religious Ceremonies

The morning typically begins with state-level commemorations in Budapest:

• Ceremonial flag-raising on Kossuth Square in front of Parliament

• Oath-taking ceremony for new military officers

• Holy Mass at St. Stephen’s Basilica, followed by a public procession of the Holy Right Hand—a revered relic of King Stephen

These ceremonies reflect the holiday’s religious and national significance, connecting the past to the present.

🖼️ Free Museum Entry – Including the Parliament

One of the best perks of the holiday: many of Hungary’s national museums offer free entry during the August 20th period. These often include:

• Hungarian National Museum

• Museum of Fine Arts

• Hungarian National Gallery

• Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art

• And more

🏛️ Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament—one of Europe’s most iconic legislative buildings—also typically opens its doors to the public for free on August 20th. Visitors can tour its grand halls and view the Holy Crown of Hungary up close.

⏳ Important Tip: The lines to enter Parliament are extremely long every year. If you plan to go, arrive early and be prepared for long waiting times.

🛍️ Folk Art & Handicrafts in the Buda Castle

The Festival of Folk Arts (Mesterségek Ünnepe) in the Buda Castle District is a highlight of the holiday:

• Hundreds of traditional artisans from across Hungary and the Carpathian Basin

• Live demos: pottery, blacksmithing, weaving, leatherwork

• Traditional costumes, music, and storytelling

• Workshops for children and cultural performances

The event offers a rare opportunity to see Hungarian heritage come to life.

🍽️ Street of Hungarian Flavours

Hungarian Street of Flavours (August 20th 2024)

Held along the Danube Promenade near Várkert Bazár, the Street of Hungarian Flavours is a multi-day food fair showcasing dishes from all over Hungary:

• Lángos, gulyás, chimney cake, sausages, fisherman’s soup, stuffed cabbage

• Local wines, fruit brandies (pálinka), and regional cheeses

• Modern takes on traditional recipes

Youtube video related to the topic: https://youtube.com/shorts/vivDEsRXS00?si=uBEvlEH1crpelFgs

🎂 Cake of the Year

Every year, the Hungarian Confectioners’ Guild unveils the Cake of the Year—a unique dessert inspired by local ingredients and creativity. You can sample the winning creation at designated pastry stalls and bakeries across the city.

✈️ Air Show & Military Displays

Typically held along the Danube banks, the Hungarian Air Force air show is a high-adrenaline crowd favorite:

• Fighter jet flyovers

• Helicopter formations

• Skydiving teams and aerial stunts

Nearby, military parades and equipment exhibitions also take place, particularly around Kossuth Square and the Citadel.

🎆 The Iconic Fireworks Show

Buda Castle during the Fireworks on August 20th in Budapest

At 9:00 PM on August 20, Budapest hosts one of Europe’s grandest fireworks displays:

• Launched from multiple bridges, rooftops, and barges over the Danube River

• Over 45,000 pyrotechnic effects choreographed to classical and contemporary Hungarian music

• Drone light shows forming Hungarian symbols and legends in the sky

• Spectacular views from both Buda and Pest sides of the river, especially from Gellért Hill, Chain Bridge, and Margaret Bridge

🌉 Tip: Arrive early to claim a good viewing spot, as crowds start forming hours in advance.

🎠 Family Fun & Cultural Zones

Throughout the city, you'll find dozens of free public programs for children and families:

• City Park (Városliget): puppet shows, craft tents, interactive storytelling

• Millenáris Park: design fair, live concerts, kids' games

• Alkotmány Street: open-air exhibitions, pop-up performances, food stalls

These zones often include music stages, street theatre, and dance performances, blending tradition with modern entertainment.

✅ Quick Tips

• Most events, including museums, are free of charge

• Public transport runs on a holiday schedule; some roads and bridges may be closed or pedestrian-only

• Fireworks start at 9:00 PM, but it’s best to arrive by 7:00 PM or earlier

• Be prepared for crowds, especially at Parliament and along the Danube

🧭 Final Note

August 20th is more than a public holiday—it’s a living celebration of Hungary’s past, present, and future. From folk traditions and historical pageantry to family-friendly festivals and high-tech spectacles, it’s a day that captures the very soul of the nation.

Though the 2025 official program is still pending, past years offer a clear picture of what this unforgettable holiday typically includes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, August 20th is a day to be outdoors, be proud, and celebrate Hungary in full color.

For the official program check the offical website here: https://www.szentistvannap.hu