Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Budapest: A Festive Parade of Irish Culture and Heritage

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Budapest
Event March 16, 2025 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
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Author Dani Pesti

Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 16th, 2025, as Budapest turns green to celebrate Ireland’s most beloved holiday—St. Patrick’s Day! Join locals, expats, and visitors alike at Szabadság Tér (Liberty Square) in the heart of Budapest’s vibrant District V for an unforgettable day filled with Irish music, dance, food, and festivities. This annual event is organized by the Irish-Hungarian Business Circle (IHBC) together with the Embassy of Ireland, promising an exciting cultural experience for everyone.

Experience the Magic of Ireland in Budapest

The festivities begin at noon and continue until 6 PM, offering a fantastic lineup of live performances showcasing both traditional and contemporary Irish music and dance. Enjoy authentic Irish tunes performed by talented musicians and marvel at captivating dance performances from groups such as Barbara Dance Academy, CE Irish Dance Academy, and I re Dance.

Sports enthusiasts will love the Gaelic football and hurling demonstrations by Budapest Gaels GAA, providing a unique glimpse into Ireland’s national sports. Animal lovers can meet beautiful Irish Setters and majestic Irish Wolfhounds up close—a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

For families attending with children, there will be plenty of entertainment including face painting and balloon bending, ensuring smiles all around. Throughout the day, food trucks will serve delicious traditional Irish dishes alongside refreshing beverages—including Guinness—to keep spirits high.

The Highlight: St. Patrick’s Day Parade Through Budapest

At 2 PM, the much-anticipated St. Patrick’s Day Parade sets off from Szabadság Tér. Led by none other than St. Patrick himself, this colorful procession winds through Budapest’s historic District V. Participants dressed in vibrant shades of green will pass iconic landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and St Stephen’s Basilica before returning to Liberty Square for more celebrations.

This lively parade is free to attend and open to everyone—so put on your best green attire and join thousands in celebrating Ireland’s cultural heritage right here in Hungary’s capital city.

Honoring Shared Heritage: The Story of Henry Spelter

This year’s festival pays special tribute to Henry Spelter—a Hungarian refugee who found a new home in Ireland following the 1956 revolution. Spelter became renowned as a confectioner at Dublin’s iconic Bewley’s café, where he introduced his famous “Mary Cake.” In 2022, this beloved cake returned to Bewley’s menu with proceeds donated to support Ukrainian refugees via the Red Cross.

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In honor of Spelter’s legacy bridging Hungarian-Irish cultures through culinary artistry, members of his family alongside Hazel Carmichael—the baker responsible for rediscovering Mary Cake—will lead this year’s parade together with Ireland’s Ambassador to Hungary. Visitors attending embassy receptions during St Patrick’s celebrations will also have an opportunity to taste this historic treat.

Supporting Local Charities: The IHBC Charity Gala

Charity is integral to Irish identity worldwide—and Budapest’s celebration is no exception. On March 22nd at Budapest Marriott Hotel, IHBC hosts its annual St Patrick’s Gala Dinner—a prestigious evening filled with fine dining accompanied by authentic Irish entertainment provided by local businesses supporting community causes.

Proceeds from this gala event benefit two Hungarian charities: Nők a Nőkért Együtt az Erőszak Ellen (NANE)—providing refuge for women and children affected by domestic violence—and Tarnabod és mi (TAMI)—supporting orphans and vulnerable youth in Tarnabod village.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Celebration!

As Damien O’Kane—President of IHBC—remarks: “This is not only a wonderful occasion for the Irish diaspora but also an amazing opportunity for everyone living or visiting Hungary to experience firsthand Ireland’s warmth and festive spirit.”

Ireland’s Ambassador adds: “Despite geographical distance between our two nations—Ireland & Hungary share deep historical connections exemplified beautifully through stories like Henry Spelter’s journey.”

Don’t miss out on experiencing one of Central Europe’s largest celebrations honoring Ireland’s vibrant culture! Gather friends & family; wear your brightest greens; enjoy great food & drink; immerse yourself fully into music-filled streets—all happening right here amid beautiful historic scenery along Danube riverbanks!

See you at Szabadság Tér on March 16th—the heartwarming spirit & joyous atmosphere await you!

Event Details:

  • Event Name: St Patrick’s Festival & Parade Budapest 2025
  • Date: Sunday March 16th
  • Time: Festival from 12 PM – 6 PM | Parade starts at 2 PM
  • Location: Szabadság Tér (Liberty Square), District V., Budapest
  • Admission: Entry to the parade is free, but tickets must be purchased to attend the gala
  • Activities Include: Live music & dance performances | Gaelic sports demonstrations | Face painting & balloon bending | Meet-and-greet with Irish dog breeds | Food trucks serving traditional cuisine & Guinness beer
  • Special Tribute: Honoring Hungarian-Irish heritage through Henry Spelter story
  • Charity Gala: March 22nd at Marriott Hotel benefiting local charities NANE & TAMI

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day like never before—in true Hungarian-Irish style—in beautiful downtown Budapest!

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Budapest