Ringing in 2025 in Budapest: Your Ultimate New Year’s Eve Guide

Hey party people! If you’re lucky enough to be in Budapest for New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant city knows how to throw a bash, and I’m here to give you the inside scoop on how to make the most of your celebration. Let’s dive into the best ways to welcome 2025 in style!

Street Parties: Free and Fabulous

Budapest’s streets come alive on New Year’s Eve, and the best part? It’s totally free! Here are some hotspots to check out:

• Vörösmarty Square: The heart of the action. Expect live music, food stalls, and a sea of revelers. From 11 AM to 3 AM, you’ll find stalls selling mulled wine, chimney cake, and sausages.
• Váci Street: As you stroll towards Vörösmarty Square, you’ll encounter numerous booths selling lucky charms for the new year and illuminated toys for children.
• Party District: Head to District VII, especially Gozsdu Court, for a lively atmosphere and plenty of bars to hop between.

Cruise into 2025

Want to add some sparkle to your night? A Danube river cruise is the way to go. Imagine sipping champagne as you glide past the illuminated Parliament building. Many cruises offer dinner, live music, and a prime spot for watching the fireworks at midnight.

Thermal Bath Parties: Only in Budapest!

For a unique Budapest experience, consider partying in a thermal bath! While the famous “sparty” at Széchenyi Baths isn’t on New Year’s Eve itself, it’s a perfect way to kick off your celebrations on December 30th.

Dinner and Dancing

For a more traditional celebration, Budapest’s restaurants and clubs have got you covered:

• High Five Budapest: Offering a buffet dinner, unlimited drinks, and a retro party across two dance floors.
• Akvárium: Provides varied music and even daytime programs for families with small children.
• Gólya: For a DIY atmosphere, head here for karaoke, champagne, and drink specials.

Fireworks Restrictions

To ensure safety and reduce noise pollution, the use of pyrotechnic devices is restricted in certain areas of Belváros-Lipótváros from 6 PM on December 28, 2024, to 6 AM on January 1, 2025. This includes popular tourist areas like Szent István Square, Erzsébet Square, and parts of Váci Street.

Legal Use of Fireworks

• Class 1 pyrotechnic articles can be purchased and used year-round by those 14 and older.
• Class 2 items are available for those 16 and older.
• Class 3 fireworks can be bought by adults between December 28-31 and used from 6 PM on December 31 to 6 AM on January 1.
• Class 4 fireworks are only for licensed professionals.

Remember, firecrackers are strictly forbidden for private use in Hungary!

New Year’s Day Recovery

Feeling a bit delicate on January 1st? Take a leisurely New Year’s Day cruise with lunch, or hit up one of the many thermal baths to soak away the previous night’s excesses.

Weather Forecast

Expect a cloudy, misty New Year’s Eve with temperatures around 6°C during the day, dropping to 0°C at night. Dress warmly, and you’ll be fine with some dancing and a bit of liquid courage!Whether you’re looking for a wild party, a romantic evening, or something in between, Budapest has got you covered for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Here’s to new adventures in 2025 – cheers, or as the Hungarians say, “Egészségedre!”