Spending New Year’s Eve in Budapest? Brace yourself: the night is set to bring bitter cold and snow!

Those planning to ring in the New Year outdoors in Hungary may want to rethink their outfit – or even their location. Weather forecasts suggest that New Year’s Eve will bring freezing temperatures, biting winds and the possibility of snow across much of the country, making it one of the coldest nights of the festive season.

Freezing start to the New Year’s Eve period

As the Christmas period draws to a close, attention is turning to what kind of weather awaits revellers on 31 December. According to The Weather on Maps, conditions will deteriorate significantly in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, with both daytime and nighttime temperatures dropping steadily. This has raised concerns, particularly for those planning to celebrate in public spaces, at outdoor events, or at midnight fireworks displays.

Sub-zero temperatures and biting wind expected nationwide

Preliminary forecasts indicate that temperatures will fall below freezing in many parts of Hungary by New Year’s Eve night. The Weather on Maps platform warns that widespread frost is expected across the Carpathian Basin, accompanied by strong winds that will further lower perceived temperatures. Even in sheltered areas, wind chill values are likely to remain well below zero.

AccuWeather’s outlook paints an equally bleak picture. During the night of 31 December, temperatures are expected to hover around –4 to –5°C. When combined with strong, cold winds, it could feel closer to –10°C, particularly in open areas. Such conditions are far from ideal for extended outdoor celebrations and could pose risks for those not dressed appropriately.

Snow showers and strong winds possible

Meteorological service Köpönyeg adds that weather conditions may become increasingly unsettled throughout New Year’s Eve. Cloud cover is expected to thicken, and snow showers or light snowfall may develop in several regions. Winds are forecast to strengthen during the day, initially from the west and south-west before turning north-westerly, with gusts reaching near-gale force in some locations.

Early morning temperatures on 31 December could drop to between –10 and –2°C, while daytime highs are unlikely to rise above –3 to +4°C. This means the cold will persist throughout the day and intensify after dark, just as most celebrations begin.

“Feels-like” temperatures could drop to –10°C

Weather on Maps has also highlighted that this year’s New Year’s Eve forecasts focus less on actual air temperature and more on “feels-like” values. Due to the combined effects of frost and wind, perceived temperatures on the plains are expected to fall between –5 and –10°C, while mountainous regions could experience even harsher conditions. The platform emphasises that wind is the dominant factor affecting comfort in sub-zero weather, although humidity can also play a role.

Dress warmly and limit time outdoors

Experts strongly advise anyone celebrating outdoors to dress in multiple layers, wear insulated footwear, hats and gloves, and avoid relying on alcohol to stay warm. Prolonged exposure to cold and wind can increase the risk of hypothermia, even at temperatures that may not seem extreme at first glance.

In short, New Year’s Eve 2025 in Hungary is shaping up to be a genuinely wintry affair. With freezing temperatures, strong winds and possible snowfall on the cards, revellers are urged to plan ahead, dress sensibly and limit the time spent outdoors. Celebrating safely and warmly may be the best way to welcome 2026.