Come to Budapest, capital of Hungary and join in the unforgettable beauty of their New Year festivities. The city’s amazing fireworks and wild street parties give a special feel for welcoming the New Year. Let’s look at the main points and useful tips to help you celebrate the New Year well here.

On New Year’s Eve, Budapest fills with traditions, music, happiness and cheerful energy. Every street, bar and historical place is alive with both city residents and visitors celebrating the end of the old year and the arrival of the next one. Having a loud party or something calm and relaxing? Budapest definitely has the right place for every visitor.

1. Fireworks are set off above the Danube.

The fireworks over the Danube River on New Year’s Eve are the main highlight of celebrations in Budapest. As it becomes midnight, the sky above the river becomes full of bright colors that highlight the well-known landmarks. To get a nice panoramic view, try standing between the Chain Bridge and the Margaret Bridge.

The scene is breathtakingly amazing. Fireworks hitting the surface of the Danube create a mirrored display of light and famous spots like Buda Castle, the Parliament Building and the Fisherman’s Bastion can be seen in the background. Both locals and visitors go to the river to be part of this cheerful and bonding event.

Tips:

• Get there in advance to avoid a crowded place. Early evening is when most locals start to gather at the venue.
• It is best to wear warm clothing because December in Budapest is often cold. The temperature frequently falls well below freezing at night.
• A river cruise can let you see the fireworks in an unusual way. Dinner, drinks and fun musical performances are often included in cruises, providing a great way to have a good celebration.

2. Celebration By Getting Together

There are lots of vibrant street parties and festive events in Budapest at the end of each year. Vörösmarty Square and Oktogon Square become popular meeting points, full of live music, DJs and stalls that serve traditional Hungarian snacks.

Anyone is welcome to these public events which help people from different backgrounds connect. There are many people dancing, singing and enjoying the lively atmosphere which can go on deep into the night. Celebrators clink glasses with sparkling wine, shoot confetti and all watch the clock as it nears midnight.

Tips:

• Wear shoes that are easy to walk in throughout the busy areas. Practicing dancing requires you to be up for an extended period.
• Enjoy local street dishes, like langos (which has various toppings on a deep-fried flatbread) and chimney cake (sweet baked dough).
• Get involved in the activities and have fun together with both local people and visitors. Everyone is invited to participate in a friendly way.

3. Soaking in Thermal Pools and Relaxation

A good way to welcome the New Year is to visit one of Budapest’s thermal baths. Many people go to Széchenyi and Gellért baths to soak in hot springs, relax in saunas and receive spa therapies.

There’s a long tradition in Hungary of enjoying thermal bath visits and many make sure to go on New Year’s Day. Picture yourself in hot baths with all the buildings and buildings covered in snow.

Tips:

• Choose a convenient time by checking when the thermal baths are open, since their hours may be different on New Year’s Day.
• You can bring your personal towel and bathing suit or pay to rent them there.
• Relax and enjoy how quiet the scenery is. It can be very soothing after spending the night out partying.

4. There are New Year’s Day concerts.

At the beginning of the year, Budapest stages a number of concerts with classical music and orchestras. One of the most famous events during these weeks is the New Year’s Concert which takes place at the Palace of Arts and is enchanted by world-class musicians.

It brings a touch of class and history into your party. Other places including small venues and churches host local concerts with famous compositions.

Tips:

• Get your ticket booked in advance since concerts are normally very popular.
• Feel the charm and grace of Hungarian classical works. It feels good to start the year in this way.
• Enjoy the concert and afterwards head to Heroes’ Square and City Park. The places are perfect for getting unique photos.

5. Pay tribute to traditional customs of Hungary.

Try to experience the Hungarian way of celebrating New Year while you are there. Eating lentil soup is traditionally done on New Year’s Day because it represents good luck in the coming year. At the Bálna Budapest, you can take part in the “Énekelj velünk!” (Sing with us!) program and sing traditional Hungarian folk tunes with other people.

Being based locally allows you to feel more deeply connected and welcomed by the community. Getting involved in or just seeing these practices is enjoyable and meaningful, especially if you share them with the friendly people.

Tips:

• Have the lentil soup at a local restaurant to enjoy the traditional taste. On January 1, several restaurants offer it as a special choice.
• Pick up a couple of Hungarian words to participate in the songs. Even something as simple as wishing “Boldog új évet!” (Happy New Year!) shows thoughtfulness.
• Get to know Hungarian culture and remember your visit for a long time. Experiencing things together and feeling the warm welcome bring the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Conclusion

In Budapest, visitors can celebrate New Year with colorful fireworks, large street parties, a chance to unwind in thermal baths and many cultural events. You can experience the city’s festivities by watching fireworks over the Danube or joining in with Hungarian traditions and both options are wonderful to welcome the new year. Organize your holiday, bring lots of warm weather clothes and get set for a remarkable trip in Europe.