Celebrate 156 Years at Budapest’s Iconic City Park Ice Rink
If you’re in Budapest at the end of January, don’t miss the chance to skate on history at the City Park Ice Rink on 29 January. This is Europe’s oldest and largest outdoor ice rink still in operation, and this year marks its 156th birthday. It’s not just another day on the ice – it’s a proper local celebration with ice dance shows, fun games, nostalgic moments, and a few sweet surprises for skaters, making it a perfect winter experience for tourists who want to join in a real Budapest tradition.
Why this ice rink is special
The City Park Ice Rink first opened on 29 January 1870, and it’s been a beloved winter gathering place for generations of Budapest residents ever since. Nestled in the heart of Városliget (City Park), right next to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths and the Vajdahunyad Castle, it’s not only a great place to skate but also a living piece of Budapest’s winter culture.
Skating here feels different from modern indoor rinks: it’s open-air, surrounded by trees and fairy lights, with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where families, couples, and groups of friends come together every winter. The anniversary day adds an extra festive layer, turning the usual skating session into a small winter festival on ice.
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What’s happening on 29 January
On the rink’s 156th birthday, expect a relaxed but cheerful programme full of little surprises and local traditions:
- Ice dance performances – Throughout the day, watch graceful ice dance numbers that show off the rink’s history and the skill of Hungarian skaters.
- Prize draws and games – Fun, simple competitions and a chance to win small souvenirs or rink-related goodies.
- A short moment of commemoration on the ice – A brief, heartfelt tribute to the rink’s 156 years, celebrated right where the magic happens.
- A birthday surprise for skaters – To mark the occasion, 156 special single-entry tickets will be hidden around the rink building. It’s a fun little treasure hunt for visitors who want to score a free re-entry on another day.
The exact schedule and details of the treasure hunt will be shared closer to the date, so it’s worth checking the rink’s official channels to avoid missing the fun.
How to join the celebration
- Date: 29 January 2026
- Opening hours:
- Morning session: 09:00–13:00
- Afternoon/evening session: 17:00–21:00
- Location: Városligeti Műjégpálya, in City Park (Városliget), Budapest, right next to the Széchenyi Baths and Vajdahunyad Castle.
- Tickets: Standard prices apply, so you can just buy a regular skating ticket as usual.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the rink on the day. Renting skates is easy and included in the regular entry process – staff are used to helping visitors and will help you get ready quickly.
Tips for foreign visitors
- Dress warm and practical – It’s an outdoor rink in January, so layers, a warm coat, gloves, hat, and scarf are essential. A backpack is handy for spare clothes and camera gear.
- Choose comfortable shoes for under the skates – Thin, soft socks and a snug pair of shoes (no thick boots or heels) will make your rental skates much more comfortable.
- Book tickets online if possible – The official website lets you buy skip‑the‑queue tickets, which is great if you’re coming with a group or visiting on a busy afternoon.
- Plan a full winter afternoon – Combine skating with a visit to the nearby Széchenyi Baths, the Vajdahunyad Castle, and the cute Christmas-style stands in the park selling mulled wine and sausages.
- Don’t worry about your skating level – This is a relaxed, family‑friendly environment where falling is normal and nobody minds. Even if you’ve never skated before, staff and other skaters are usually happy to help you keep your balance.
Why this is perfect for tourists in Budapest
If you’re in Budapest during winter and want a genuinely local experience, skating on the 156‑year‑old City Park Ice Rink is a great way to do it. The birthday celebration adds a warm, community feel – colourful shows, a few games, a bit of history, and a sweet surprise for lucky skaters. It’s not just about exercise; it’s about soaking up the city’s winter atmosphere in one of its most iconic spots, surrounded by beautiful park scenery and happy locals. Whether you’re here with a partner, a friend, or on your own, this is a fun, easy, and very memorable way to spend a day in Budapest.
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