Today, August 20, is one of the most important national holidays in Hungary. It is the Day of the Foundation of the Hungarian State, celebrating King Stephen I, the founder of the Hungarian state, and what Hungarians often think of as the country’s birthday.

But August 20 is also a celebration of something very close to Hungarian hearts: food.

The New Bread – a Hungarian tradition

One of the traditions of August 20 is the celebration and blessing of the New Bread (Új Kenyér). The bread is traditionally made from the newly harvested wheat of the year, symbolizing the harvest, abundance and hope for the year ahead.

For visitors discovering Hungarian culture and Hungarian food, this is a beautiful example of how closely food is connected to Hungarian history and traditions. Bread is not simply something we eat – it represents the land, the harvest and generations of Hungarian families.

And there is another delicious August 20 tradition: every year, Hungary chooses its National Cake of Hungary (Magyarország Tortája).

What is Hungary’s National Cake in 2026?

In 2026, the competition was held for the twentieth time. The winning cake is called Bíborfehér, created by the Kézműves Cukrászda team from Gyula. This year’s competition focused on two classic Hungarian ingredients: rögös túró, a traditional Hungarian curd cheese, and sour cream.

Hungary also chooses a Sugar-Free Cake of Hungary every year. In 2026, the winner is Szilvafácska, created by the team of Promenád Kávéház in Balatongyörök. The cake combines plum with walnuts, milk chocolate, cinnamon and green tea.

Both cakes can be tasted around Hungary from August 20, making this national holiday a particularly good time for food lovers to discover modern Hungarian pastry.

Hungarian food is part of Hungarian culture

At Hungry for Hungary, we believe that food is one of the best ways to understand a country. Hungarian cuisine is much more than goulash, paprika and chimney cake. It is a story of family traditions, historical influences, local ingredients and the everyday life of Hungarian people.

That is why our private Budapest food experience is not simply a meal. Over a four-course dinner, our guests can talk with us about Hungarian history, traditions, everyday life and what it was really like growing up in Hungary.

For travelers looking for an authentic Budapest food experience, Hungarian cultural experience or something beyond the usual tourist attractions, sharing a meal with Hungarians can offer a very different perspective on Budapest and Hungary.

So today, as Hungary celebrates its national holiday, the New Bread and the National Cake, we raise a glass to Hungarian culture, Hungarian food and the traditions that continue to bring people together around the table.

Happy August 20 – and welcome to the table!