In the capital a special food festival, free concerts, and many outdoor events offer varied entertainment for both Budapest residents and visitors from Hungary and abroad.

The main attraction is the grand fireworks display over the Danube, a spectacular show known for its impressive scale and artistry. This dazzling event lights up the night sky and draws thousands of spectators. In recent years, the display has expanded to cover a longer stretch of the river, incorporating multiple bridges and landmarks.

'Most Spectacular Fireworks Show of All Time' Ahead in Budapest on August 20th

This year, even more people will have the chance to enjoy the stunning display. The fireworks will be visible over a stretch of more than five kilometers along the Danube, covering three central city bridges instead of two.

The number of pyrotechnic devices, drones, and light projections will also increase compared to last year, leading to a slight rise in the overall cost of the display.

Hungary's 20 August celebrations are a major national holiday, marking the foundation of the Hungarian state. Also known as St Stephen’s Day, it honors King Stephen I, who is credited with founding the state and introducing Christianity to Hungary.

August 20 is “one of the most serious events in the country in terms of the interest and number of participants it attracts”, Zoltán Kovács, the state secretary for international communication and relations says.

It not only commemorates the foundation of the Hungarian state and pays tribute to King St. Stephen, “but is a festival and series of events that sets a standard when it comes to the country’s prestige”, he added.

More than 45,000 pyrotechnic effects will be launched from Liberty, Elisabeth and Margaret bridges as well as river barges and pontoons during the 30-minute display.

Air Show Over Danube on St. Stephen!s Day

Top local pilots will perform their individual shows over the section of the Danube between the Chain Bridge and Margaret Bridge, which can be viewed from the quays of Pest and Buda

Also there will be a military air show on 20 August over the Danube between the Chain Bridge and Margaret Bridge, attracting huge interest in recent years.

Those visiting the venue will be able to enjoy the ceremonial hoisting of the national flag and the inauguration of officers, followed by a magnificent flyover of military aircraft and helicopters, and individual air displays.

Refreshed St. Stephen's Day App Launched

Hungary is launching an updated mobile app and website for the August 20 St. Stephen’s Day celebrations to make it easier for the public to plan their programmes during the national holiday weekend, organisers said.

This mobile app’s user-friendly interface, updated search function and intuitive menu, will make it easier for those attending the festivities between Aug 17 and 20 to find the events they are interested in.

The app has also been updated with a new chatbot function that can give users personalised responses.

Another new feature is the route planner function that will help users save time getting from one event to another.

Further information is available in English here:
szentistvannap.hu/en

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