May 1st – Traditions and Festive guide

May 1st in Hungary, known as Majális, has a rich historical background that beautifully blends ancient spring celebrations with the more recent commemoration of International Workers’ Day.

Historically, the traditions of May 1st are deeply rooted in the welcoming of spring and the celebration of nature’s renewal and fertility.One of the most significant traditional customs is the setting up of the Maypole (Májusfa). Young men would erect a tall, decorated tree, often adorned with ribbons, flowers, and sometimes even bottles of wine, in front of the houses of the girls they were courting. This was often done secretly on the night of April 30th. A larger Maypole might also be set up in the center of the village, around which community dancing and celebrations would take place. These Maypoles would typically remain standing until Pentecost.

Traditional celebrations also involved music, feasting, games, and community gatherings, symbolizing the joy and hope associated with the arrival of warmer weather and the promise of a good harvest.

In the late 19th century, May 1st also became associated with the international labor movement. Following events like the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, May 1st was designated as International Workers’ Day to advocate for workers’ rights, particularly the eight-hour workday. Under socialism, May Day became a major state holiday in Hungary, marked by large organized parades and rallies showcasing workers and their achievements. These were often followed by large public festivities in parks, featuring food, drinks, music, and amusement rides.

Today, the celebration of Majális in Hungary is a blend of these two historical strands. While the large-scale political parades are no longer the central focus, the day remains a public holiday and is widely celebrated with family-friendly outdoor events, festivals, and gatherings in parks and public spaces. The tradition of erecting Maypoles still exists in some areas, and the day is generally associated with enjoying the spring weather, picnics, live music, cultural programs, and various forms of entertainment for all ages. It’s a day for communities to come together, celebrate the season, and also acknowledge the importance of workers.

May 1st 2025 in Hungary: A Festive Guide

This lively occasion blends the historical celebration of spring’s arrival and nature’s reawakening with the commemoration of International Workers’ Day, offering diverse programs for all ages.
In Budapest, the festivities are centered around several key locations:

• The largest event is the Városliget (City Park) Majális, running for four days. It features children’s programs between 11:00 and 15:30 daily at the Ice Rink area, followed by concerts from 17:00. Popular Hungarian artists like Dér Heni, Nótár Mary, Children of Distance, Oláh Gergő, and AK26 are scheduled to perform. Entry to this major event is free.
• Rock music fans can head to the Tabán Festival on May 1st, from 16:00 to 22:00, showcasing bands like Charlie, Stardust, Mini, and Dinamit, also with free admission.
• District XV hosts a series of events at two locations, Bányász Park and Budai II. László Stadium. These family-friendly programs include face painting, a cooking competition, football matches, and an evening concert by Korda György and Balázs Klári
• For a retro vibe by the Danube, the Római-part at Dunakavics Bowling Club offers traditional food like goulash and sausages, along with drinks. Daytime free children’s activities include glitter tattoos, crafts, and games. The evening features live music from CSC Band, followed by a Retro Mánia Disco playing 80s and 90s hits (the disco has an entry fee of 1500 HUF).
• The Kertvárosi Majális in Erzsébet-liget promises a picnic atmosphere with concerts, kids’ programs, a fair, amusement rides, food, and drinks, culminating in a Republic concert in the evening.
• Széll Kálmán Square will host the Tavaszi Széll promenade, focusing on a variety of street food options.
• Kőbánya organizes a Halmajális (Fish Festival), featuring an all-day fish soup cooking competition, concerts, children’s shows, dance performances, games, and an amusement park.
  Beyond the capital, numerous cities and towns are also holding Majális events:
• Szentendre celebrates on the Danube bank at Postás Beach on May 1st from 9:00 AM, with programs including yoga, folk dances, a horse show, interactive games, and an evening concert by Andorai Péter & the Grace Band of charge.

What i’ll find open on this day in the city?

Based on typical public holiday practices and available information for 2025, here’s what you can generally expect to be open in Budapest on May 1st:

• Tourist Attractions: Most major tourist attractions, including museums, historical sites, and the Buda Castle area, are expected to be open.
• Thermal Baths: Budapest’s famous thermal baths are usually open on public holidays, often operating on a Sunday or holiday schedule with potentially higher entry fees.
• Restaurants and Cafes: A majority of restaurants and cafes, particularly in the city center and tourist areas, will be open. However, some smaller or family-owned establishments might close.
• Bars and Entertainment Venues: Bars and entertainment venues are generally open in the evening.
• Smaller Shops and Convenience Stores: While large supermarkets and shopping malls are typically closed on May 1st, smaller privately-owned shops, convenience stores (such as Roni/Manna ABC), and some shops at petrol stations may be open.
• Public Transport: Public transportation will be operational, but it will likely run on a reduced holiday schedule. The 100E airport express bus is expected to run with increased frequency.
• Majális Events: As highlighted in the previous summary, numerous Majális festivals and events will be taking place across the city in parks and other designated areas, offering food, drinks, and entertainment.
  Likely Closed on May 1st:
• Large supermarkets and shopping malls
• Banks
• Post offices
• Government offices and public administrations
  It’s always a good idea to check the specific opening hours of individual establishments or attractions you plan to visit, as there can be variations. Be prepared for public transport to be running on a less frequent schedule than on a regular weekday.