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November in Budapest: Events to Look Forward To

As the autumn leaves fade and the chill of winter approaches, November in Budapest becomes a magical place to experience. The city is alive with cultural events, festive preparations, and unique experiences that make it one of the best times of the year to visit. From celebrating Hungarian traditions to exploring holiday markets and enjoying seasonal food and drink, November in Budapest offers many things to see and do.

Here’s a guide to the top events and experiences to look forward to in Budapest this November.

1. St. Martin’s Day Celebrations (Márton-nap)

When: Around November 11
Where: Various locations, including restaurants, markets, and festivals

St. Martin’s Day, or Márton-nap in Hungarian, is one of the country’s most beloved traditions and a significant highlight in November. Historically marking the end of the agricultural year and the start of winter preparations, this holiday is celebrated with feasts featuring one of Hungary's culinary staples: goose. According to legend, those who eat goose on St. Martin’s Day will not go hungry in the coming year, making it the perfect excuse to indulge.

What to Expect:

  • Goose Feasts: Restaurants across Budapest offer special menus featuring goose dishes, from roast goose leg to goose liver pâté.
  • New Wine Tasting: It’s tradition to pair goose meals with the season's new wine, as St. Martin’s Day is also the time to taste the year's freshly bottled wine.
  • Markets and Festivals: Some markets and venues hold Márton-nap festivals, offering traditional food, live music, and folk performances.

Why Go: Whether dining in a cozy restaurant or visiting a festival, St. Martin’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to experience Hungarian culture through its food and wine. Be sure to try libamáj (goose liver), a Hungarian delicacy.

2. Budapest International Wine Festival: St. Martin’s Day Edition

When: Mid-November
Where: Danubius Hotel Gellért

For wine lovers, November in Budapest means another fantastic opportunity to indulge in local wines, this time at the St. Martin’s Day Wine Festival. Held at the historic Danubius Hotel Gellért, this event celebrates new and old wines, pairing them with delicious Hungarian cuisine. The festival features tastings from over 100 Hungarian wineries, emphasizing the year’s new wine, traditionally debuted in November.


Realistic image of the Budapest International Wine Festival: St. Martin’s Day Edition at Buda Castle. The scene depicts a festive outdoor setting with detailed wine tasting booths, a few visitors holding glasses of red and white wine, and the illuminated Buda Castle prominently in the background. The atmosphere is vibrant, featuring warm string lights, autumn decorations such as pumpkins and leaves, and traditional Hungarian attire, creating a warm, cultural, and celebratory ambiance during the evening glow.
A vibrant evening at the Budapest International Wine Festival: St. Martin’s Day Edition, set against the backdrop of the illuminated Buda Castle.


What to Expect:

  • Wine Tastings: Sample a wide range of wines, from the fresh 2023 releases to well-aged reds and whites from top Hungarian wineries.
  • Gourmet Food: Besides wine, the festival offers gourmet food, including St. Martin’s Day goose dishes from some of Budapest’s top chefs.
  • Cultural Program: The event features live music, folk performances, and cooking shows that showcase Hungary’s culinary traditions.

Why Go: This festival is an excellent way to sample Hungary’s best wines in a luxurious setting while celebrating the traditional harvest festivities surrounding St. Martin’s Day.

3. Budapest Christmas Markets: Early Opening Dates

When: Late November through December
Where: Vörösmarty Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica, various locations

As the holiday season approaches, Budapest’s famous Christmas markets open in late November, transforming the city into a festive wonderland. Two of the most popular markets are held at Vörösmarty Square and in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, both offering a wide range of handcrafted gifts, traditional Hungarian foods, and seasonal treats.


Realistic image of forralt bor (mulled wine) being served at a Christmas market in Budapest. The scene features a festive stall decorated with holiday lights, steaming cups of mulled wine on the counter, and Christmas decorations such as pine branches and ornaments. Visitors in the background are dressed warmly, with a soft glow from market lights illuminating the cozy winter atmosphere, evoking the festive spirit of a traditional Christmas market.
Warm up with forralt bor (mulled wine) at the festive Christmas market in Budapest, surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday decorations.

What to Expect:

  • Handmade Gifts: From leather goods and ceramics to wooden toys and textiles, the markets offer plenty of locally made gifts for holiday shopping.
  • Holiday Food: Warm up with forralt bor (mulled wine), kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and lángos (fried dough), as well as hearty Hungarian stews and sausages.
  • Holiday Decorations: The markets are beautifully decorated with lights, Christmas trees, and festive stalls. St. Stephen’s Basilica has a nightly light show projected onto its facade.

Why Go: Budapest’s Christmas markets are renowned for their festive atmosphere and unique selection of gifts and food. The markets opening in November allow you to get a head start on your holiday shopping while enjoying the magical ambiance of the city.

4. All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day

When: November 1 and 2
Where: Cemeteries and churches across Budapest

All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2) are important holidays in Hungary. On these days, families honor their deceased loved ones by visiting cemeteries to light candles and leave flowers. While these days are more solemn, they offer a unique glimpse into Hungarian traditions and are worth experiencing if you’re in Budapest at the start of November.


All Saints’ Day at Kerepesi Cemetery in Budapest, showing gravestones and memorials softly lit by countless candles and lanterns at night. The scene features autumn leaves scattered around, a subtle mist adding to the mystical atmosphere, and a deep golden glow from the candles creating a serene and commemorative ambiance. Historic monuments of Kerepesi Cemetery are visible in the background, illuminated by the warm light.
Kerepesi Cemetery illuminated by candlelight on All Saints’ Day, creating a serene and commemorative atmosphere amidst the historic monuments of Budapest.

What to Expect:

  • Candle-Lit Cemeteries: Cemeteries such as Kerepesi Cemetery and Farkasréti Cemetery become beautifully illuminated at night, with thousands of candles flickering on graves.
  • Quiet Reflection: These days are marked by peaceful reflection, with many locals attending church services and spending time with family.

Why Go: If you’re interested in cultural traditions, visiting a cemetery on All Saints’ Day is a moving experience. Seeing Budapest’s historic cemeteries lit by thousands of candles is truly breathtaking.

5. Autumn Art Exhibitions and Cultural Events

When: Throughout November
Where: Museums, galleries, and theaters across Budapest

Budapest has a thriving cultural scene, and November is a great time to enjoy. As the weather cools, the city's many museums, galleries, and theaters offer refuge with a fantastic lineup of exhibitions, performances, and events. Whether you're into contemporary art, classical music, or theater, there’s something to suit every taste.

What to Expect:

  • Art Exhibitions: Major museums, such as the Hungarian National Gallery and Ludwig Museum, host special exhibitions in November featuring everything from Hungarian masters to international contemporary artists.
  • Concerts and Opera: Budapest’s iconic venues, like the Liszt Academy and the Hungarian State Opera House, offer a rich program of concerts and performances. November often features performances of classical works and more experimental music events.
  • Theater Performances: The city's theaters, such as the Madách Theatre and Vígszínház, present a variety of productions, including both Hungarian-language plays and international works.

Why Go: Whether you are an art enthusiast or a music lover, November’s cultural offerings provide an excellent way to immerse yourself in Budapest’s artistic heritage and contemporary creativity.

6. Gastronomy and Food Festivals

When: Various weekends in November
Where: Various locations

November in Budapest is not just about wine—there’s plenty for food lovers, too. Several food festivals occur throughout the month, showcasing Hungarian flavors alongside international cuisine. These festivals are perfect for warming up with delicious comfort food as the weather turns colder.


Close-up outdoor image of Budapest's craft beer scene in November, featuring glasses of craft beer in different shades next to juicy burgers on a wooden picnic table. The burgers are loaded with melted cheese, lettuce, and tomato, with fall decorations like fallen leaves and warm-toned outdoor lighting, creating a cozy autumn atmosphere with a blurred cityscape in the background.
Enjoy Budapest's craft beer scene outdoors in November with glasses of rich craft beer and juicy burgers, surrounded by the cozy ambiance of autumn.

What to Expect:

  • Chimney Cake Festival: In early November, this festival celebrates the iconic Hungarian treat kürtőskalács (chimney cake). The event offers many flavors, from the classic cinnamon-sugar variety to more creative options like chocolate, nuts, and even savory versions.
  • Goose and New Wine Festival: In conjunction with St. Martin’s Day, some venues host smaller festivals focusing on goose dishes and new wine, perfect for sampling the best of Hungary’s autumnal flavors.
  • Craft Beer Festivals: Budapest’s craft beer scene has grown tremendously, and in November, you can find events showcasing local breweries. Try unique, seasonal brews alongside street food vendors offering everything from burgers to vegan options.

Why Go: Budapest’s food festivals offer the chance to taste the best local and international cuisine, focusing on seasonal, hearty dishes perfect for the chilly November weather.

7. Thermal Baths and Spa Experiences

When: Throughout November
Where: Széchenyi, Gellért, and Rudas Baths

As the days get shorter and colder, November is the perfect time to experience Budapest’s famous thermal baths. These historic bathhouses are a quintessential part of the city’s culture, offering a relaxing escape from the chilly weather. Soaking in the naturally heated waters is the ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or to warm up during a cool November evening.


Close-up image of the outdoor pool at Széchenyi Baths in Budapest during November. The scene shows the warm pool water with the iconic yellow Neo-Baroque architecture of the bathhouse in the background, surrounded by fallen autumn leaves. The cool, crisp November air contrasts with the warm water, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, emphasizing the beautiful bathhouse and serene pool setting
A serene view of the outdoor pool at Széchenyi Baths in Budapest, featuring the iconic Neo-Baroque architecture on a crisp November day.

Top Thermal Baths to Visit:

  • Széchenyi Baths: One of the largest and most iconic bathhouses, Széchenyi features outdoor and indoor pools. The outdoor pools are especially magical in November, with steam rising from the warm water as the cool air settles in.
  • Gellért Baths: Known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, Gellért Baths offers a more luxurious thermal bath experience with beautifully designed pools and spa services.
  • Rudas Baths: For a more traditional experience, visit Rudas Baths, which dates back to the 16th century. The octagonal Turkish pool is atmospheric, and the rooftop hot tub offers incredible city views.

Why Go: Budapest’s thermal baths are a must-visit in any season, but there’s something exceptional about soaking in the warm waters on a crisp November day. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy a quintessential Budapest experience.

Final Thoughts

November in Budapest offers a fantastic mix of cultural events, festive markets, and culinary delights, all set against the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Whether exploring the Christmas markets, enjoying a goose feast on St. Martin’s Day, or simply soaking in the thermal baths, Budapest in November has something for everyone.

Plan your visit around these exciting events, and you’ll experience the best Budapest offers during this enchanting time of year.

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