Vienna-Budapest New Year’s Concert 2026: Strauss and Sparkle
Ring in the New Year with Waltz Magic
Imagine gliding into the new year surrounded by the golden sounds of Strauss waltzes and lively polkas, evoking the elegance of old Austria-Hungary. On January 3, 2026, the Danubia Orchestra brings this Vienna-inspired tradition to the Budapest Congress Center, blending classic hits with fresh twists for a night from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Passionate keringos, snappy polkas, and Hungarian dances fill the program, all wrapped in bilingual commentary by artistic director Máté Hámori to keep every visitor in the loop.
It’s the ideal sophisticated evening for tourists craving cultural immersion right after the holiday bustle.
Highlights of the Program
The lineup mixes timeless favorites with exciting surprises, perfect for classical fans and newcomers alike.
- Suppe’s Light Cavalry Overture to kick things off with energy.
- Strauss gems like Phoenix Wings Waltz, Im Fluge Polka, Pizzicato Polka, Tick-Tock Polka, and Where the Lemon Trees Bloom Waltz.
- Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite for dramatic flair.
- Brahms Hungarian Dances Nos. 1, 4, and 5, plus Ott Rezső’s The Gypsy Fiddler.
Joining the orchestra is the Sárközy Collective—a talented young ensemble led by violinist Lajos Sárközy. They fuse classical roots with gypsy jazz, folk vibes, and cimbalom flair for a fresh, boundary-pushing sound that’s already wowed festivals across Europe.
Best deals of Budapest
Event Details
Date: January 3, 2026 (Saturday)
Time: 7:00 PM–9:30 PM
Venue: Budapest Congress Center, 1123 Budapest, Jagelló út 1-3 (easy bus or taxi from city center, near Buda Hills)
Tickets: From 10,000 HUF to 30,000 HUF—book early for prime seats.
Things to Do Near Budapest Congress Center
Perched in the green Buda Hills, this spot is a breeze for visitors blending culture with relaxation. Pre-concert, wander nearby trails or grab coffee at cozy cafés overlooking the city.
For dinner, try local Hungarian spots serving warming stews and pastries, or upscale bistros with Danube views. Afterward, head to thermal baths like Rudas for a steamy soak, or downtown for ruin bar hopping. Stay at nearby hotels like the Novotel on-site or charming Buda guesthouses for a peaceful base.
This New Year’s concert delivers pure festive elegance—your ticket to Budapest’s refined side!