Christmas Day 2025
Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: Hungary Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Day in Hungary is a national public holiday. It always takes place on December 25. Many people have the day off from work and school. Shops and government offices are usually closed.
The day marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian belief. For many families it is a time to remember faith and the story of hope and peace. It connects people to Hungary's Christian heritage.
Christmas Day is also an important moment in the yearly calendar. It comes during winter, near the end of the year. This makes it a time for reflection about the past year and hopes for the new one.
Because it is both a religious and national holiday, Christmas Day brings together different parts of society. It is a shared pause in everyday life when people focus on family, community, and meaning.
Traditions
In Hungary people clean the house and put up the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. Many decorate with handmade ornaments and light candles. Small nativity scenes are shown in homes. Families sing carols and some attend midnight mass together.
The big meal is shared in the evening. Typical foods include spicy fish soup called halászlé, fried or baked fish, stuffed cabbage, and sweet pastries like beigli with poppy seed or walnut filling. Honey cakes and homemade cookies are common too.
Gifts are brought by Jézuska or the little angel and opened after the meal. Families visit relatives, exchange wishes, and keep old folk customs alive with songs and simple home rituals.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks, post offices and government offices are closed on Christmas Day. Some museums and attractions close or have short hours. Public transport runs but with reduced timetables. Check schedules, book restaurants or tours in advance, and carry some cash.
Expect busy trains, buses and airports earlier in the day. Book tickets early and arrive at stations sooner. Keep valuables safe in crowded areas. Enjoy city lights, reserve a holiday meal, and be respectful around quieter neighborhoods and church zones for a pleasant visit.