Budapest Pride is set to begin at 3 PM in the height of the afternoon heat, as a so‑called “heat dome” responsible for extreme temperatures across Western Europe settles over Hungary. With the strain on the human body considerable, Health Minister Zsolt Hegedűs has issued guidance to those attending large-scale events, while police have also released a statement.
Will turnout at Budapest Pride fall this year?
As previously reported, the heat dome sweeping across Western Europe has reached the Carpathian Basin, bringing with it at least three days of extreme temperatures and the prospect of record-breaking heat in Hungary.
Last year’s 30th Budapest Pride was widely seen as a major success, particularly as the then Orbán government attempted to ban the event. Organisers defied the move, and the march ultimately became a mass protest against the Orbán system. This year, however, the political edge is expected to be less pronounced: the current Magyar administration has acknowledged the demonstration, and police are preparing to secure the event rather than intervene.
Organisers anticipate small counter-demonstrations, noting that both the radical Mi Hazánk party and Fidesz have previously voiced opposition to the march. In a separate incident, a man threw several rainbow flags into the Danube, while Mi Hazánk MP Előd Novák has said he will pay the resulting fine.
Yet the Pride march faces challenges beyond politics. In Paris, extreme heat has already led to the cancellation not only of Pride but also of other major outdoor events, including the Solidays festival and the We Run race, as per the Hungarian news agency. This raises the question of whether similar measures might be required in Hungary in the coming hours. For now, such a decision appears unlikely from the authorities, leaving responsibility largely with organisers.
Extreme heat and record highs expected
Hungary is also bracing for exceptional temperatures over the weekend, during which several outdoor mass events — including Budapest Pride — are scheduled to take place. The health minister has urged people to weigh carefully whether to attend outdoor gatherings.
Dr. Zsolt Hegedűs stressed that choosing to stay away from Budapest Pride should not be seen as cowardice, but rather as a responsible decision under the circumstances.
He emphasised that heat is not merely uncomfortable but poses serious health risks. The elderly, pregnant women, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals with cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable. They are advised, where possible, to avoid attending outdoor mass events in person. Pride organisers have echoed this recommendation, suggesting supporters instead share messages or images online.
How to protect against the heat
Those who do attend are advised to bring sufficient drinking water, avoid alcohol, wear hats or caps, choose light, breathable clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible. Anyone experiencing dizziness, weakness, headaches, nausea or near-fainting should seek help immediately.
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Organisers have indicated that six ambulances will accompany the march, much of the route will offer shade, and free water will be available at both the start and finish — though participants are still encouraged to bring their own, ideally chilled. The city’s water utility will also open emergency drinking points at Astoria, Deák Ferenc Square and Ferenciek Square. At the end of the route, food trucks and two beverage stations will be available.
What did the police say?
The 31st Budapest Pride will begin at 3 PM on Saturday from the Opera House, proceeding via Elisabeth Bridge to Vérmező. The organiser, the Rainbow Mission Foundation, notified authorities of the event on 27 May in accordance with assembly law. Police have acknowledged the notification and stated they are prepared to ensure the event proceeds safely.
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