Looking for something different to do in Budapest on New Year’s Eve? Forget the usual dinner reservations and crowded bars for a moment. At Kincsem Park, the year ends with trotting races, greyhound racing, live entertainment and a festive atmosphere that is quite unlike anything else in the city.
Ügetőszilveszter, the annual New Year’s Eve racing event, is a long-standing Budapest tradition that brings together racing fans, families and curious visitors for an afternoon of sport and entertainment. If you want to experience a more unusual side of the Hungarian capital, this could be just the ticket.
What is Ügetőszilveszter?
Held every December 31 at Kincsem Park, Budapest’s historic horse-racing venue, Ügetőszilveszter is much more than a regular race day. It combines harness racing with greyhound races, equestrian demonstrations, music and festive entertainment, creating a lively end-of-year celebration.
The tradition dates back to 1999, when well-known actors, athletes and public figures were invited to take part in special races to help promote the event. It gradually grew into one of the park’s most popular race days, attracting thousands of spectators.
What to expect
The main attraction is, of course, the racing. You can watch the trotting horses compete on the track, see the greyhounds in action and enjoy various equestrian demonstrations throughout the event.
But there is plenty happening between races, too. Previous editions have featured live music and DJs, food stalls, seasonal drinks and special entertainment. The program has also included pony races and spectacular traditional Hungarian horse displays.
You do not need to know anything about horse racing to enjoy the atmosphere. You can simply follow the action, cheer with the crowd and soak up the festive buzz. If you are curious about betting, you can also learn how the racing works, although watching the races is an experience in itself.
The exact entertainment and race schedule varies from year to year, so check the official event page for the latest program.
Good to know
???? Date: December 31, 2026
???? Location: Kincsem Park, Albertirsai út 2-4, Budapest
????️ Tickets: Paid admission; check the official website for current prices and availability
???? Main attractions: Trotting races, greyhound racing and equestrian shows
???? Entertainment: Music, food and drinks, plus additional activities depending on the year’s program
How to get there
Kincsem Park is located in Budapest’s District X, a little outside the usual city-centre sightseeing route. The easiest option is to take the metro to Pillangó utca on the M2 line and continue on foot to the racecourse. Check the event’s official travel information before setting off, as access arrangements can vary on busy event days.
For the latest schedule, ticket prices and practical information, visit the official Kincsem Park Ügetőszilveszter page.
If you are spending New Year’s Eve in Budapest and fancy something more memorable than another evening in a bar, Ügetőszilveszter offers a glimpse of a local tradition with plenty of action and atmosphere.
Visiting Budapest for the first time? Explore our Budapest for First-Timers guide for more ideas and practical tips to help you make the most of your stay.
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