A significant public gathering occurred in Budapest, powered by an estimated 120 buses that transported participants across the city.

The assembly largely filled the Museum Boulevard in front of the National Museum, although there appeared to be fewer supporters of the ruling party, Fidesz, as one moved beyond the immediate vicinity.

The event, which commemorated a national occasion, experienced delays, starting later than the advertised time.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán took the stage around 11:15 AM, a delay from the announced 10:30 AM start, potentially reflecting lower-than-expected turnout.

This year, security measures surrounding the event were notably heightened.

Numerous riot police vehicles were stationed on parallel streets, particularly on Magyar Street, while entry to the area directly in front of the Prime Minister was restricted to VIP guests and pro-government media.

Attendees were required to arrive at least half an hour before the scheduled start time.

Ordinary Fidesz supporters were admitted later, passing through security checkpoints manned by personnel from Valton Sec, a favored security firm of Fidesz, alongside police and plainclothes investigators.

Photographers were notably barred from entering if they appeared to carry professional camera equipment.

Counter-demonstrations took place at various entry points.

For instance, several protesters gathered at Astoria with banners reading "Ruszkik haza!" (Russians go home!), while at Kálvin Square, a group led by figure Robert Puzsér presented their own messages, including "Petőfi fought for civil society" and "Down with the Russian alliance." Reports indicated that, apart from some heated exchanges, no significant confrontations occurred, although the Puzsér supporters disrupted Orbán's speech with loud whistles.

One protestor noted a minor incident where a member of the crowd attempted to spit at Orbán.

During this time, a student named Bori and her friend Dénes were momentarily detained by police while observing from within the crowd.

Bori stated their curiosity about Fidesz supporters motivated their decision to venture inside the barriers.

During the Prime Minister's address, Dénes reportedly shouted accusations of treason, which resulted in aggressive reactions from several attendees, including a notable incident where a father, holding a young child, confronted them.

Bori recounted that the immediacy of aggression among otherwise average attendees was startling.

Following the speech, as the crowd began to disperse, some participants engaged in debates with counter-protestors nearby.

An older Fidesz supporter articulated a belief in engaging with Russia despite ongoing conflicts, reflecting a sentiment that previous political affiliations, such as being a member of the former MSZMP, did not equate to dictatorship in Hungary.

In a notable artistic moment, Bálint Szabó, a former municipal representative from Szeged, performed the song "From the Prison Window" for the departing crowd, a repeat performance from the previous year's protests.