Budapest holds first authorized Pride march after government transition

Tens of thousands of people participated in Budapest's Pride march on Saturday, June 28, 2026, following authorization granted by authorities after a prior prohibition. The event proceeded along a pre-scheduled route through the city center under clear skies.

Police maintained a visible presence along the route. Several rainbow flags that had been placed on the Elisabeth Bridge were removed before the march and replaced with national flags. No injuries or arrests were reported during the event.

Crowd estimates varied across reports, with participating outlets citing figures ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands. Participants carried flags and banners. Far-right activists were reported to have removed the bridge flags in an effort to prevent potential trouble.

The authorization followed the end of the previous administration's 16-year tenure. Last year's Budapest Pride proceeded despite a government prohibition and drew record attendance, according to AFP reporting cited in multiple outlets. Organizers viewed that turnout as indicating continued public interest.