New Year's Day Gala Concert with Dinner & Cruise
This New Year’s Day, lovers of culture, music, sightseeing and food do not have to compromise: they can have all this and more at the New Year’s Day Gala Concert with Dinner and Cruise. A splendid 90-minute performance that celebrates Hungary’s rich and extensive musical heritage leads into an exquisite boat tour along the Danube River that puts Budapest’s innumerable landmarks on display in their gorgeous festive illumination. Dinner and drinks on board let local flavours dance on your palate, and you just know it is going to be a good year. Let yourself in the arms of Budapest!
The New Year’s Day Gala Concert takes place at the famous Danube Palace. It combines the unique soundscapes of classical, operetta, folk and Gypsy music into a programme that never ceases to surprise and delight. Classical masters such as Franz Liszt, Béla Bartók, Ferenc Erkel, Johannes Brahms, Johann Strauss the son and Jules Massenet shine alongside virtuosos of the operetta genre like Franz Lehàr and Emmerich Kálmán. To that, add the fiery passion of the Gypsy tunes and Hungarian folk dances such as the czardas, and you have a truly explosive musical formula. The Danube Symphony Orchestra, featuring soloists from the Budapest Operetta Theatre and talented ballet dancers, delivers a one-off concert experience. Special musical guests include the traditional Hungarian stringed instrument, the cimbalom, and a rising singing star from the national talent show ‘Virtuosos’. Keep your eyes peeled for all those musical surprises!
After the wild 90-minute musical ride, step aboard the exquisite ship for a stunning cruise down the beautiful blue Danube. As you glide upon the river’s gentle waves, Budapest reveals all its charms to you. The monolithic House of Parliament, the majestic Buda Castle, the historic St Stephen’s Basilica, the gorgeous Chain Bridge and Liberty Bridge, all basking in their tasteful nightly illumination, are guaranteed to take your breath away. Onboard, a feast of local and international delicacies awaits you, paired expertly with the best Hungarian wines and refreshing soft drinks. The New Year’s Day Gala Concert with Dinner and Cruise really is the full package!