subject: Celebrating St. Stephen's Day in Budapest by:Roberta Gyori [print this page] If your travel plans include Budapest on August 20th you will find yourself in the midst of the country's biggest celebrations. August 20th is greatest national holiday for Hungarians, with day-long festivities and celebrations, followed by spectacular fireworks throughout the country, with the one in Budapest being the biggest and most beautiful.
But what exactly do Hungarians celebrate on St. Stephen's Day?
Stephen I (969 - 1038) was the first to unite the Magyar tribes into a nation. As the first king of Hungary, he broadly established Christianity and founded the Kingdom of Hungary. Stephen I was crowned in 1000, with a holy crown sent by Pope Silvester II recognizing him as the king of Hungary. The Holy Crown survived throughout the centuries and has become a symbol of Hungary. The crown along with the crown jewels is on display in the Parliament Building (guided tours are available).
Stephen I was canonized on August 20th 1083 by Pope Gregory VII. He has since been referred to as St. Stephen. When his tomb was opened for the canonization in 1083, his right hand was found to be miraculously preserved. Today, St. Stephen is the patron saint of the Budapest Basilica where his mummified right hand, Hungary's holiest relic, is kept in a glass case in one of the chapels.
August 20th commemorates the foundation of the Hungarian state. In 1771 during the reign of Empress Maria Theresia a law was passed declaring this day an official State and Church holiday. It's like Hungary's 4th of July, only the history goes further back in time.
The Celebrations
Festivities start early in the morning at 8:30 a.m. with the raising of the flag in Kossuth ter, in front of the Budapest Parliament building. The day of celebration culminates in the spectacular fireworks display, drawing big crowds all along the Danube.
Fireworks are usually set off from the Chain Bridge and the Elizabeth Bridge, the inner courtyard of the Citadel as well as tugboats on the Danube.
The main events during the day include the procession of St. Stephen's Holy Right Hand around the Basilica, archery shows and the Court of St Stephen, a historical playhouse, very popular with families. In addition there is an air and water parade.
St Stephen's Day also marks the festival of the new bread celebrated in cities and towns across the country. Traditionally, the first bread from the new harvest is baked on this day.
Detailed information on Budapest's Basilica and Parliament can be found here:
Roberta Gyori is the editor of visitbudapest.travel, offering an insider's look at Budapest attractions, tours, art & culture, shops and more along with reviews on Budapest hotels, restaurants and events. Find more information on Budapest at http://visitbudapest.travel/
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