City Park Ice Rink Budapest reopens for season 2023

It’s that time of year again when the air turns crisp, the smell of gingerbread fills the streets, and the iconic City Park Ice Rink in Budapest reopens its doors to usher in another exciting winter season. This year marks the 139th anniversary of the beloved ice rink, which first opened its frozen waters to the public back in 1870. As one of the oldest and largest outdoor ice rinks in Europe at nearly 9 acres, it’s no wonder this venue is a highlight of Budapest during the holidays.

I laced up my skates and gloves to check out all the magical happenings at the 2023 season opening. Nestled amongst the trees in Varosliget Park against a backdrop of vibrant architecture, the grand rink was buzzing with activity under Saturday’s clear blue skies. The ice was freshly smoothed and the evergreen trees surrounding it were strung with twinkling lights to set a festive winter mood. Laughter filled the frosty air as crowds of eager skaters took to the ice, from little ones gingerly stepping out for the first time, to couples gliding hand-in-hand, to more seasoned veterans practicing spins and jumps.

In addition to open skating sessions, this year’s attendees can enjoy skating classes, hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and special themed events. Every weekend brings new festivities like retro rollerskating nights, midnight skates under the moonlight, and live music performances on select evenings. No visit is complete without indulging in Hungary’s famous spiced wine known as mulled wine or hot chocolate topped with a mountain of whipped cream—the perfect treats to warm up with after time spent out on the rink.

The City Park Ice Rink truly transforms into a winter wonderland after the sun goes down. The glittering ice rink illuminated under the dark night sky is where the real magic happens. The ice glows and gleams while skaters chase one another around the ice, bundled up in their hats and scarves. Surrounding the rink is a bustling Christmas market where you can pick up handmade souvenirs and ornaments at the local artisan craft stalls or satisfy your hunger with traditional Hungarian street foods like kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and lángos (fried dough).

Beyond providing a place to skate, this space serves as Budapest’s central meeting point during the holidays. Whether you come with family, on a date, or just to people watch with a mug of hot cocoa, the iconic City Park Ice Rink offers a quintessential Hungarian winter experience. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than gliding across this timeless ice rink in the heart of Budapest. The 2023 season is sure to be another magical winter for all who step onto its frosty surface

Come spring, the ice melts away and makes room for an entirely new warm-weather tradition. From April to September, the rink transforms into Városligeti Műjégpálya, a placid boating lake surrounded by tree-lined paths. Visitors can rent small rowboats by the hour and spend an afternoon floating leisurely around the water. Paddle boats shaped like swans are also available for those looking for a fun family activity. The lake becomes speckled with white swan paddle boats drifting by as couples relax in rowboats, soaking up the sun. From wintry ice rink to verdant summer boating lake, this space embodies the changing seasons.