1st of May marks Labour Day in Hungary, with a long history, but since the fall of the Communist regimes, it has mostly been celebrated with May Day picnics, called 'majális' in Hungarian. These events offer delicious food and drink - traditionally sausages and beer for adults, but nowadays the menu is more colourful - and great programmes. Children can enjoy amusement parks, workshops and lots of different games, but there are also great family, dance and music programmes. We can help you find your favourite activity: let's take a look at the best free programmes for 1 May in Budapest.

Majális for everyone: best free programmes for 1 May in Budapest

If you are looking for the perfect way to kick off May on a budget, there are plenty of free May Day picnics in the city centre to choose from. For example, you can participate at a 'Modern Majális' at Széll Kálmán tér, with great street food stands and awesome programmes for the kids. A lot of fun is waiting for you and your family at the City Park Ice Rink, but the City Park is also a good choice if you are coming to Budapest with your dog, as it is the venue for the popular Dogz Festival.  

Fancy something different? There will be a Dance picnic at Alagút Tető, or you can organise your own gastro May Day picnic on the Margitsziget, by visiting the local Gastro Promenade and choosing from their food and drink offer. 

Free jazz programmes for 30 April

If you want to start the celebrations earlier, you can enjoy some great free concerts in the city centre. April 30th is International Jazz Day, so don't miss the opportunity to hear a unique interpretation of some of the most famous jazz standards on Liszt Ferenc tér. Or, if you take a stroll near Gozsdu Court, you can be part of the audience at a concert by young jazz talents.

Photo: Gastro Promenade Margitsziget