Hungary Public Holidays in 2024: A Complete Guide

A guide on national public holidays in Hungary and Budapest

travel tips
February 15, 2024

Find out everything you need about Hungary’s and Budapest’s public holidays in our comprehensive guide.

Explore these historic commemorations and cultural celebrations, and learn their dates and significance. Whether you’re a visitor or resident, delve into the rich tapestry of Hungarian traditions with us.

Hungary Holidays in 2024

In total, there will be 11 national holidays in Hungary in 2024:

1 Jan (Mon) – New Year’s Day
15 Mar (Fri) – Revolution Day
29 Mar (Fri) – Good Friday
1 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
1 May (Wed) – Labor Day
20 May (Mon) – Whit Day
20 Aug (Tue) – Saint Stephen’s Day
23 Oct (Wed) – Hungarian Republic Day
1 Nov (Fri) – All Saints’ Day
25 (Thu) and 26 Dec (Wed) – Christmas Days

1. New Year's Day

🗓️ Monday, 1st of January of 2024

Just like in other countries, the 1st of January is a holiday in Hungary. But, even though most things are closed, there’s still a lot to do that day. First of all, if you want to dive into Hungarian traditions, have some lentils that day – they’re good for prosperity, so they say. And if you’re in the capital and don’t feel like staying home, there’s plenty of things to do in Budapest on the 1st of January: there are cruises along the Danube available; the thermal baths, like the iconic Széchenyi baths; gala concerts at venues like the Opera House; or the main Budapest Christmas markets, which should still be open that day.

2. Revolution Day

🗓️ Friday, 15th of March of 2024

On March 15th, Hungarians commemorate the anniversary of the 1848 Revolution, which was primarily a revolt against the Habsburg monarchy’s oppressive rule. Although this uprising would be suppressed, this event symbolizes the Hungarian struggle for freedom and independence from Austrian dominance. Parades and other ceremonies honor the bravery and resilience of those who fought for Hungary’s sovereignty during this historic event.

3. Good Friday

🗓️ Friday, 29th of March of 2024

Good Friday in Hungary is seen as a solemn religious holiday, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of reflection and prayer for Christians, with many attending church services and participating in processions. Traditionally, it is a time of fasting and abstaining from meat, as believers contemplate the sacrifice of Jesus for the redemption of humanity.

4. Easter Monday

🗓️ Monday, 1st of April of 2024

Known in Hungarian as “Húsvéthétfő,” the Easter Monday is a continuation of the Easter celebrations, and one of the main things happening in Budapest in April. It’s a day filled with festivities, as families gather to continue the holiday traditions. One of the most popular customs is the “sprinkling,” where boys playfully sprinkle water (often perfumed) on girls, and recite poems to them. This tradition is accompanied by exchanging decorated Easter eggs, and savoring the flavors of the holiday season. Additionally, various cultural events and activities are organized across the country to mark this special day.

5. Labor Day

🗓️ Wednesday, 1st of May of 2024

Labor Day in Hungary is the perfect start of May in Budapest. Celebrated on May 1st, it honors the contributions of workers. Also known as the International Worker’s Day, this is a public holiday marked by rallies, demonstrations, and cultural events across the country.

6. Whit Day

🗓️ Monday, 20th of May of 2024

Also known as Pentecost Monday, the White Day falls fifty days after Easter. It’s a significant religious holiday commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus. Hungarians typically attend church services and engage in family gatherings, celebrating the spiritual significance of this day.

7. Saint Stephen's Day

🗓️ Tuesday, 20th of August of 2024

Saint Stephen’s Day honors the nation’s founder, King Stephen I. It’s a national holiday filled with patriotic pride and cultural festivities. Hungarians attend mass, participate in parades, and enjoy traditional folk music and dance performances. The day culminates in spectacular fireworks displays across the country, symbolizing unity and national identity.

8. Hungarian Republic Day

🗓️ Wednesday, 23rd of October of 2024

The Hungarian Republic Day, also known as “National Day”, “Revolution and Freedom Fight Day” or “Independence day”, commemorates both the 1956 revolution of Hungary against Soviet rule, and the proclamation of the Hungarian Republic in 1989.

It’s a solemn – yet proud – occasion, marked by events and speeches all over the country. Hungarians honor the bravery of those who fought for freedom and democracy.

9. All Saint's Day

🗓️ Friday, 1st of November of 2024

Just like in other countries with Cristian traditions, All Saint’s Days os dedicated to honoring departed loved ones. Families visit cemeteries to adorn graves with flowers and candles, paying homage to the deceased.

10. Christmas Days

🗓️ 25th (Wednesday) and 26th (Thursday) of December of 2024

In Hungary, families gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25th and 26th. Traditional Hungarian Christmas dishes include fisherman’s soup, stuffed cabbage rolls, and beigli, a sweet pastry filled with poppy seeds or walnuts. Decorations adorn homes and Christmas trees, often accompanied by handmade ornaments and candles. On Christmas Eve, families exchange gifts and attend midnight mass, while December 26th is dedicated to visiting relatives and continuing the holiday celebrations.

One of the season’s biggest attractions, for tourists and locals, is visiting the Budapest Christmas markets. These markets are known throughout Europe for their festive ambiance and array of delights, while offering a glimpse into Hungarian holiday traditions.