St. Stephen's Day in Hungary: Europe's Biggest Fireworks Spectacle

St. Stephen's Day in Hungary is one of the country’s most significant national holidays. Celebrated on the 20th of August, this event honours Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen, and the foundation of the Hungarian state over a thousand years ago.

It's a day filled with patriotic pride, cultural festivities, but the highlight is the spectacular fireworks and this year the Hungarian's are promising that it will be the biggest display in Europe.

Here’s everything you need to know about St. Stephen's Day and the firework display.

What is St. Stephen's Day?

St. Stephen’s Day commemorates the canonisation of Stephen I, the first King of Hungary, who established the Hungarian state and converted the nation to Christianity. Recognised as the founder of Hungary, St. Stephen is a revered figure in Hungarian history, and his legacy is celebrated with a variety of events across the country.

The day is marked by a mix of religious ceremonies, state festivities, and cultural programs. In Budapest, the Hungarian capital, the celebrations reach their peak, drawing in locals and tourists alike to enjoy the festivities.

Europe's Biggest Firework Display

The highlight of St. Stephen's Day is undoubtedly the grand fireworks display in Budapest. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:

The Main Event: This year, the fireworks display promises to be the biggest in Europe.

The 30-minute show, starting at approximately 9 pm, will be launched from 7 barges and 65 pontoons over a 4.5 km stretch on the Danube River, between Petőfi Bridge and Margaret Bridge, and from Elizabeth and Liberty Bridges. 

Best Spots to View the Fireworks Show

To get the best view of the fireworks, head to one of these prime viewing spots:

• Danube Embankments: Between the Chain Bridge and Margaret Bridge.
• Fishermen’s Bastion: Located in Buda Castle, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Citadel on Gellért Hill: Another excellent vantage point for the fireworks.
• Rooftop Bars: High Note Skybar of the Aria Hotel and Intermezzo Restaurant and Rooftop Terrace of Hotel President offer 360-degree views of the city (reservations required).
• Margaret Island: The southern tip provides a great view. Note that Margaret Bridge will be closed off from 18:00 on the day, so plan to arrive early.
• River Cruises: Watching the fireworks from a ship on the Danube is one of the best experiences. Many cruises offer dinner and live music, providing a perfect setting for the evening.

What Else Is On?

The day will kick off with a ceremonial procession where the Holy Right Hand, the mummified hand of St. Stephen, is paraded through the streets of Budapest. This is followed by various parades showcasing Hungarian folk traditions, music, and dance.

Throughout the day, there are numerous cultural programs, including concerts, exhibitions, and performances. The Buda Castle district and Várkert Bazaar are popular spots for these events, offering a deep dive into Hungary’s rich cultural heritage.

St. Stephen's Day is also a great opportunity to indulge in Hungarian cuisine. Street vendors and food stalls pop up across the city, serving traditional dishes like goulash, lángos (fried dough), and chimney cake. Don’t miss out on tasting these local delights as you enjoy the festivities.

Getting Around

Events are held throughout Budapest, but key locations include the Danube River banks, Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, and various rooftop bars and river cruises.

Budapest’s metro, trams, and buses will be running extended services to accommodate the influx of visitors. Keep in mind that some roads and bridges will be closed for the festivities, so plan accordingly.

For the best views of the fireworks and parades, arrive early to secure a good spot. Popular spots fill up quickly, so plan to get there at least an hour before the show starts.

Given the large crowds, keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Follow any instructions from event organisers and local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts

St. Stephen's Day in Budapest, Hungary is a celebration that beautifully combines history, culture, and spectacular pyrotechnics. Whether you’re there for the epic fireworks display, the rich cultural programs, or the delicious food, it’s an event that promises to deliver a great day out.

Create Your Own St. Stephen's Day Firework Display

Why not create your own night of music and fireworks with a stunning firework display all of your own?

Here at Epic Fireworks, we offer a wide range of fireworks to suit any celebration, from small gatherings to large events. Visit our website to explore our selection of fountains, sparklers, rockets, barrages, mines, roman candles, loud fireworks, quiet fireworks and more.

Our ready-made DIY packs come with a comprehensive firing guide, making it easy to plan and execute a spectacular, professional-level display.

Plus, for tips on how to add music to your display make sure you check out our article Creating the Perfect Firework Playlist for Your Event.