Visit Hungary is proud to announce the 150th anniversary celebration of Budapest. Budapest, Hungary’s capital, celebrates this milestone through a series of cultural, culinary, and music events ranging from wine, gastronomy, and music to culture and art. Drawing attention to the historic unification of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, in 1873, the anniversary pays tribute to its predecessors and one of the fastest-developing metropolises in Europe. Today, the city is home to impressive market halls, invigorating thermal baths, lavish literary cafés, grand architecture, and bustling nightlife.
“We invite you join us in this celebration of one the world’s most iconic city, Budapest.
Its diversity, energy, and creative vibes, exemplify Hungary’s offering to locals and tourists alike” , said Zsuzsa Szégner, International Relations Director, Visit Hungary.
Culinary Delights
Cakes of the Year: Dessert lovers can enjoy this year’s winning cakes created to honor the occasion throughout more than 100 locales in Budapest. Winning cakes include Spicces Füge Respektus, which contains fig jelly and Tokaji Aszú, the world-famous wine of Hungary, and Kikelet cake, designed around a drop of black tea, with blueberries and a hint of lavender, completed by a vanilla white chocolate mousse and an almond and lemon sponge cake.
Tokaji Aszú Tasting: Considered the world’s oldest sweet wine, Tokaji Aszu is the best way to celebrate Budapest. Named for the town of Tokaj in Hungary and the word “aszu” which means “dry”, visitors can enjoy a tasting cruise along the Danube River, as well as tasting tours around the city and Etyek.
Culture Lovers
Grand Novel Budapest – In November 2023 a book featuring 23 stories written by 23 Hungarians will be released as a literary homage to the city’s anniversary.
Music meets Spa: Join the festivities by participating in Sparty, the world-famous party series. The city has more than 100 geothermal springs. From February to December, both locals and tourists participate in this weekly event held at the largest medicinal spa in Europe located in the City Park.
Renowned Architecture
Chain Bridge Reopens. The Chain Bridge, which once connected the cities of Buda & Pest, will be reopened officially in August 2023. This theme is central to this year’s celebrations. The picturesque historic stone bridge straddles the Danube between Széchenyi Square in Pest, and Clark Ádám Square in Buda. Offering some of the city’s most stunning views, the bridge is connected by the grandiose Parliament in Pest, while Castle Hill towers at the Buda end.
The Lions of Budapest will delight cat lovers with the presence of lions in Budapest. As depicted on the coat of arms and as guards at the iconic Chain Bridge replicas of these guarding lions are being placed in iconic locations throughout the entire city, decorated by local artist.