Hungary Public Holidays 2025
Hungary has 12 public holidays and 12 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 1 Feb | Sat | Memorial Day of the Republic | observance |
| 25 Feb | Tue | Memorial Day for the Victims of the Communist Dictatorships | observance |
| 8 Mar | Sat | International Women's Day | observance |
| 16 Apr | Wed | Memorial Day for the Victims of the Holocaust | observance |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 4 May | Sun | Mother's Day | observance |
| 21 May | Wed | National Defense Day | observance |
| 4 Jun | Wed | Day of National Unity | observance |
| 8 Jun | Sun | Pentecost | public |
| 9 Jun | Mon | Whit Monday | public |
| 19 Jun | Thu | Day of the Independent Hungary | observance |
| 20 Aug | Wed | Saint Stephen's Day | public |
| 6 Oct | Mon | Memorial Day for the Martyrs of Arad | observance |
| 23 Oct | Thu | National Day | public |
| 1 Nov | Sat | All Saints' Day | public |
| 6 Dec | Sat | Saint Nicholas | observance |
| 24 Dec | Wed | Christmas Eve | optional |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
| 31 Dec | Wed | New Year's Eve | observance |
About Hungary's Holidays
Hungary has three big national days that shape public life. March 15 remembers the 1848 revolution. August 20 celebrates the founding of the state and Saint Stephen. October 23 marks the 1956 uprising and Republic Day.
Religious public holidays are also important. New Year, Easter and Pentecost, May 1 Labor Day, and Christmas bring days off work. Many stores close and there are official ceremonies, church services, or quiet family time depending on the holiday.
Cultural celebrations include folk festivals, harvest fairs, fireworks and parades. Traditions mix modern events with church rituals and family meals. Food markets, folk music, and national symbols like the flag are common during these holidays.
Holiday Traditions
Hungarian holidays are lively and colorful. Town squares fill with music, folk dance and sometimes fireworks. People wear ribbons in national colors for big public celebrations. Churches and community centers host concerts and services that many attend.
Families gather for warm meals and storytelling. Tables often have hearty soups, roasted meats and sweet pastries. Special breads and rolls are common. Grandparents pass down recipes while children help decorate or set the table.
Local markets sell crafts, painted eggs and ornaments. Parades, wreath laying and candle lighting mark important days. Folk bands play, singers perform and people share food with neighbors. Traditions mix old customs with modern celebrations across Hungary.
Travel Tips
Holiday season in Hungary means many shops and government offices close on public holidays. Small stores and markets may shut earlier on the eve. Plan to do banking and official errands before the holiday to avoid trouble.
Public transport runs but may follow a holiday timetable. Trains and long distance buses can be crowded, especially around Christmas and New Year. Book intercity tickets and seats in advance to avoid sold out services.
Tourist sites and restaurants in Budapest stay open, but expect longer lines and higher prices. Carry cash for small vendors, check opening hours, and allow extra travel time. Pack warm clothes for winter weather and enjoy festive markets early in the day.