From Indonesia to Hungary: celebrating Ramadan and Eid far from home

For Indonesians in Hungary, a different kind of Eid al-Fitr celebration quietly takes place. Far from Indonesia’s bustling Ramadan nights and large family gatherings, a small Indonesian community observes the holy month and celebrates Eid al-Fitr in a more intimate setting, while finding its place in Hungary.

For Muslims around the world, Ramadan in March 2026 is a time of reflection, discipline, and togetherness. A month when daily routines shift, evenings are marked by shared meals, and spiritual devotion deepens. The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, or Idul Fitri, one of the most important celebrations in Indonesia, known for forgiveness, reunion, and festive gatherings. But how does this communal tradition take shape thousands of kilometres away from home?

For Indonesians in Hungary, the holy month carries a blend of emotions, including gratitude, longing, and quiet reflection. Though it differs from Indonesia’s vibrant atmosphere, it offers a more personal and introspective journey.

Experiencing Ramadan in a different setting

In Indonesia, Ramadan is deeply embedded in daily life. The call to prayer echoes across neighbourhoods, streets come alive with food stalls selling takjil (snacks for breaking the fast) before sunset, and families gather almost every evening.

In Hungary, however, Ramadan is observed  more quietly. Therefore, for Indonesians, especially those living in smaller towns, the experience  is more private.

Bimantara, an Indonesian worker in Balassagyarmat, shared that: “Ramadan in Hungary feels calmer and more personal.”

The absence of familiar traditions including communal Qur’an recitations or the lively search for takjil, is often what Indonesians miss the most. Yet, this simplicity also allows them to reconnect with the spiritual essence of Ramadan differently.

A strong and supportive community

Indonesians in Hungary have built a supportive and closely connected community. Many gather for sahur and iftar, and organise small prayers.

Therefore, a strong sense of mutual care among Indonesians is created, which encourages solidarity through sharing meals, supporting one another, and creating a sense of family.

This positive dynamic extends to Hungarians. Indonesians are welcomed warmly and treated with respect as guests. In return, Indonesians show respect for local customs and contribute positively to their surroundings. This fosters a harmonious environment where both communities respond to each other with openness and goodwill.

Recreating traditions through shared moments

Community gatherings play a vital role in maintaining the spirit of Ramadan. Events organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Budapest provide an important space for Indonesians across Hungary to reconnect.

On 1 March 2026, the Embassy hosted a communal iftar in Budapest, bringing together members of the Indonesian community to break their fast together. On 7 March 2026, a consular outreach event for Indonesian workers in Szécsény and Balassagyarmat also became an opportunity to share iftar and strengthen connections.

These occasions allow Indonesians from different cities to come together, share meals, and experience a sense of home, through familiar food, language, and warm conversations.

Eid celebrations in Hungary

As Ramadan comes to an end, Eid al-Fitr marks a time of joy and gratitude. In Indonesia, it is typically celebrated with large family gatherings, homecoming traditions known as mudik, and festive meals.

On the morning of 20 March 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Budapest held a communal Eid prayer, or Sholat Ied, bringing together Indonesians from across the country. The gathering became a central moment of celebration, filled with warmth, reunion, and a shared sense of belonging.

Beyond the prayer, the celebration continued in a spirit of openness and togetherness. The Ambassador hosted an open house at her residence, warmly welcoming Indonesian citizens in Hungary, whether they were celebrating Eid or simply joining the gathering. The occasion reflected the spirit of Indonesian tolerance, where inclusivity and togetherness remain at the heart of every celebration.

Indonesians across Hungary also marked the occasion through small gatherings, shared meals, and moments of connection within their communities.

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Ramadan and Eid beyond borders

Overall, Ramadan and Eid continue to unite the relatively small Indonesian community in Hungary.,

The experience though more subtle, carries a different kind of depth, shaped by distance, adaptation, and resilience.

Hence, the essence of Ramadan remains unchanged. It is still about faith, compassion, and connection, values which transcend borders and bring people together wherever they may be.

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FAQ – Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in Hungary