St. Stephen’s Day 2025: special interest surrounded the festive event series

Classical and pop music concerts, traditional and contemporary productions, and gastronomic experiences showcasing the flavors of the country prepared for several days for the worthy finale: the Game of Fire and Lights, or the fireworks on August 20 and the accompanying light and drone show. The festive fireworks were the highlight of the joint celebration this year as well: hundreds of thousands of people followed the spectacular choreography along the Danube bank, which was complemented by monumental light painting and a unique drone show. The unity of pyrotechnic elements matched to the musical background and modern visual technology provided an unforgettable experience for all ages.

The cavalcade of programs that attracted more than 3,000,000 visitors began on the weekend before August 20. In the Philosophers’ Garden on Gellért Hill, Panorama Classical celebrated the world of classical music and jazz for two days in an interactive, family-friendly format: in addition to performances by the Modern Art Orchestra, the Hungarian National Guard Budapest Garrison Orchestra and the Danubia Orchestra, visitors were also treated to joint musical performances, film soundtrack and “Great Hungarian Songbook” themed evenings, and an instrument caress.

In the heart of the city center, Vigadó Piano created an intimate festive atmosphere with a piano-centric concert series for three days: French chansons, film soundtracks, bossa-nova and swing evergreens, as well as performances by Andrea Malek and Andrea Szulák provided a little slowdown in the hustle and bustle. Not far away, DJs took turns at the SzabadRét Festival, where the main focus was on relaxing on the grass during the day and partying in the evening.