The Gundel Ball 2026 – "Among the Stars"
A new chapter in Hungarian ballroom culture
The Gundel Ball 2026 brings back the community-building power of big-city balls and combines it with the experiences of the 21st century, while preserving Gundel's elegance and legendary hospitality.
Within the walls of the Palace, a social culture is being revived in which gastronomy, music, dance, and human connection are naturally intertwined.
Not a copy of the past, but a modern reinterpretation of it:
Here, tradition does not mean distance, but connection; elegance means attitude, not privilege.
This is not just a social event – it is an evening that connects: the past and the future, guests and hosts, Hungary and the world.
The theme of "Among the Stars" reinforces this belief—that individual light becomes a constellation when it connects with others.
The iconic Gundel Palace, which has been around for over 130 years, is hosting an event, where live music, dancing, modern visuals, and interactive shows create a unique ball experience.
The Gundel Ball 2026 is both a tribute to the past and a step towards the future, with a new tradition being born in one of the most prestigious venues in Hungarian hospitality.
An evening where genuine human connections are formed, where elegance is a shared experience, and where everyone can be the star of the ball.
Date and location
February 7, 2026
18:00 – 02:00
Gundel Palace — Budapest, City Park
When you step through the gates of Gundel, the rhythm of time changes.
The soft lighting, the light elegance of the music, the cheerfulness of the celebrating community, and the aromas of the cuisine all combine to create the experience.
The experience is not loud, but inviting; as you walk up the stairs, all your senses tune in to what awaits you.
The Gundel Ball 2026 will be a special event that people will fondly remember – because they know that something truly remarkable happened there.
Take your place among the stars!
Be part of a story that has been a tradition in Gundel for more than a century.
Let this evening be filled with your light – BECAUSE AT THE GUNDEL BALL, EVERYONE CAN BE THE STAR OF THE SHOW.
The moment is near, one evening,
when the past, present, and future are placed on a single timeline
at Gundel
The Gundel Ball 2026 appeals to everyone who loves to celebrate, who appreciates elegance and community, and who is open to stepping out of everyday life for an evening.
This ball is not just about luxury, but also about the joy of human encounters. Here, the glamour is not a role, but a natural presence. Because elegance is only truly meaningful when we experience it together.
THE MESSAGE OF THE EVENING IS THEREFORE SIMPLE AND SINCERE: "AMONG THE STARS – AT THE GUNDEL BALL, EVERYONE CAN BE THE STAR OF THE BALL."
Programs – A world of experiences at Gundel Palace
The Gundel Ball 2026 programme combines the traditional ball atmosphere with the excitement of a modern world of experiences.
On this night, the Palace is transformed into a special stage where our guests are not just spectators, but also the stars of the show.
Every moment of the ball was composed so that the transition between music, dance, art, games, and gastronomy would be natural, continuous, and enjoyable.
A new atmosphere welcomes guests on different levels of the Palace.
On the ground floor and first floors, bands, singers, and first ballroom dancers create a special atmosphere, while in the wine cellar, a DJ plays light, slightly mysterious nighttime rhythms.
For those who want to step away from the dance floor, a spectacular view awaits them outside under the starry sky.
Live music, dancing, modern visuals, and interactive show elements create a unique ball experience.
The programme features a digitally animated hologram of Károly Gundel (the founder of Gundel Restaurant) greeting guests, stargazing, the Touchable Universe, and playful experiences, Black Jack and roulette tables, ensuring that everyone can be an active participant in the evening. Photo spots located at several points help capture the sparkle that everyone brings with them on this night.
The event is also special from a gastronomic point of view: a celebration dinner, an elegant reception, light snacks, a champagne and chocolate bar, several music stages, and freely accessible areas await participants from the basement to the first floor.
The musical offerings provide entertainment for all ages: a ballroom orchestra, jazz atmosphere with Lili Fehér and András Jász, Imre Rakonczai's party program, and DJ sets on various levels of the Palace.
Be part of the experience!
Take your place among the stars and experience the magical world of the Gundel Ball—where every moment is personal, unforgettable, and only complete with you.
An evening where everyone can be the star of the ball
Enter the dazzling world of Gundel, where everyone can shine like a star at this unforgettable ball.
Explore the venue
Explore the impressive rooms of Gundel Palace, where the ball comes to life!
On our virtual tour, you can explore the rooms of the 130-year-old palace, where the Gundel Ball becomes an unforgettable experience!
The world of the first floor – where ballroom traditions come to life
Come to the first floor, to the heartbeat of the Gundel Ball.
Here, the full glory of classic big-city ballroom culture unfolds before you: the magnificent Ballroom is home to the opening dance, and the live melodies of the dance band fill the entire evening with emotion. The movements of white gloves, the soft glow of crystal chandeliers, and the elegant serving of the dinner all convey the message that you are part of a history that spans more than 130 years.
Ground floor – The modern world of the Ceremonial Hall
The central stage of the Gundel Ball.
Where the first notes of music and the clinking of glasses set the rhythm for the evening. Tradition lives on here, but in a new form: the dance floor beckons as naturally as if it had always been here. A venue for light-hearted receptions, dining and dancing — elegant yet relaxed. Its atmosphere invites you to become part of the ball's history.
Wine cellar – the liberated rhythm of the night
The wine cellar reveals the more hidden side of the night.
The lights are a little warmer, the pace is more lively, and the rhythm of the music is more liberating. Here, every movement becomes easier, the laughter is louder, and the celebration becomes a pure presence. As the night approaches, the guests arrive here, feeling as if the second chapter of the ball is just beginning.
Experience - Elegance - Shine - Community - Experience - Elegance - Shine - Community - Experience - Elegance - Shine - Community -
Celebration - Tradition - Light - History - Stars - Celebration - Tradition - Light - History - Stars - Celebration - Tradition - Light - History - Stars -
The opening dance – where tradition and youth meet
The most touching moment in the Gundel universe of experiences
The iconic opening dance of the Gundel Ball will be the ceremonial opening of the evening: a beautiful Viennese waltz in which young first-timers show off the timeless beauty of elegance. Tradition and the future take to the dance floor hand in hand here — the sophistication of the past merges with the fresh energy of the present.
An elegant Viennese waltz comes to life in choreographer Andrea Keleti's dance piece, where the charm of the past meets the energy of the future on the dance floor.
In the weeks leading up to the ball, a community forms: countless rehearsals, laughter, shared moments, all contributing to these young people becoming part of the history of the Gundel Ball.
Here, the next generation brings the elegance of the past to life.
The message of the opening dance is simple and timeless: tradition can only live on if we carry it forward together—boldly, brightly, and with each other in mind.
Tradition meets the future
– the universe of Gundel experiences
Dance in the Gundel universe on a magical night!
"One dance step for man, one waltz for mankind: Gundel Ball!"
For decades, Gundel hosted celebrations, cultural evenings, and private events that combined gastronomy, music, and social life. The 2026 Gundel Ball evokes the spirit of these iconic evenings – not merely out of nostalgia, but to revive the tradition in a new way, adapted to the needs of today.
The aim is to reinterpret what it means to "go to a ball" today: this outstanding event is not just about glamour, but also about connection, experiences, and community. Gundel has always been an ambassador for Hungarian hospitality – a place where gastronomy, culture, and elegance come together.
Ticket types for the universe of experiences
— Which one will you choose?
The What makes Gundel Ball special is that none of the ticket types separate guests from each other—on the contrary, they bring them together. The true essence of the evening lies in community: every guest belongs to the same sparkle, to the same story.
Ticket types do not indicate rank, but rather a choice of experience. The only difference is the pace and route at which you explore the universe of the ball—because on this night, every moment is for everyone.
THE GUNDEL IS FOR EVERYONE!
Choose the experience that suits you best.
Reserve your place and be part of a ball where tradition is revived and where your light completes the experience.
Diamond tickets are sold out
Tickets for the private room on the upper floor of Gundel Palace can be reserved in advance.
If you would like to apply, you can register here.
GUNDEL DIAMOND TICKET
119,000 HUF/person
LOCATION: Gundel Palace – upstairs Andrássy Ballroom and the entire premises
What does this include?
Gundel Prestige Brut welcome sparkling wine 1 glass
Gundel Palace first floor seated dinner
4-course plated set menu
Premium wine selection presented by a dedicated sommelier
Premium wine pairing with unlimited consumption until 2:00 a.m.
Unlimited non-alcoholic beverage package until 2:00 a.m.
Dedicated waiter at the tables
Zsolnay porcelain tableware with silver cutlery
Special musical and entertainment programs for the evening
Our prices include the VAT and the 15% service charge.
GUNDEL GOLDEN TICKET
89,000 HUF/person
LOCATION: Gundel Restaurant – Gallery section and entire area of Gundel Palace
What does this include?
Gundel Prestige Brut welcome sparkling wine 1 glass
Seated buffet dinner ticket, unlimited consumption for 3 hours
Full-evening beverage service at your table
Alcoholic drinks package with unlimited consumption until 2:00 a.m.
Non-alcoholic beverage package with unlimited consumption until 2:00 a.m.
Special musical and entertainment programs for the evening
Our prices include the VAT and the 15% service charge.
GUNDEL SILVER TICKET
69,000 HUF/person
LOCATION: Gundel Restaurant – Café area and entire Gundel Palace
What does this include?
Gundel Prestige Brut welcome sparkling wine 1 glass
Standing reception buffet dinner ticket with unlimited consumption for 3 hours
Unlimited alcoholic drinks package until 10 p.m.
Non-alcoholic beverage package with unlimited consumption until 10 p.m.
Special musical and entertainment programs for the evening
Our prices include the VAT and the 15% service charge.
GUNDEL WALKING TICKET
49,000 HUF/person
LOCATION: Entire area of Gundel Palace
What does this include?
Gundel Prestige Brut welcome sparkling wine 1 glass
Unlimited mineral water, coffee, and tea until 2:00 a.m.
Special musical and entertainment programs for the evening
Our prices include the VAT and the 15% service charge.
Legendary flavours, in a new form / Legendary flavours, in a new form / Legendary flavours, in a new form / Legendary flavours, in a new form /
Every course tells a story – about the past, present and future of Hungarian gastronomy / Every course tells a story – about the past, present and future of Hungarian gastronomy /
Flavours that light up every moment of the evening
The dinner experience tailored to ticket types allows every guest to enjoy the ball's culinary offerings at their own pace.
The rooms of the Palace are transformed into various gourmet stops: from a celebration dinner to an elegant standing reception, a different atmosphere awaits guests at each stop.
The gastronomy of the evening is an adventure: each stop holds a new surprise.
During the event, the Hütte and the activities are available at different prices.
The detailed price list is available on site and at the designated information points.
The champagne lounge enhances the sparkling moments of the evening, while the chocolate and dessert bar becomes a playful, sweet haven of freedom.
The "hütte"-style snacks are perfect next to light conversations, because the Gundel Ball is all about celebration, companionship, and togetherness.
The gastronomic selections allows each guest to follow their own path of discovery—whether elegant, relaxed, or full of surprises.
The Gundel kitchen team is guided by a single philosophy: that "food brings people together." Sitting around a table, stories are born, relationships are built, and celebrations truly come to life.
The Gundel Ball 2026 therefore creates an evening where guests not only taste flavours, but also share moments together. Because the true light of the ball shines where flavours and experiences meet.
Let yourself be enchanted by the flavours.
Take your place at the table and experience how dinner at Gundel becomes an unforgettable experience.
Learn about the purpose of the ball
Mission – "Gundel is for everyone"
Here, every guest receives equal attention – this philosophy still lives on today in both the house and the ballroom.
The event is one of Gundel's big dreams, which opens a new era in the life of the house.
This ball is where the elegance of the past meets the lightness of the present – where Gundel's 130-year heritage can shine in a new light.
This evening is not about rank or status.It's about what truly connects people, an experience that embodies the joy of discovery, the power of community, and the freedom of celebration.
Just as stars come together to form galaxies, we want the Gundel Ball 2026 – "Among the Stars" to bring us together –
different people, generations, and stories – in a shared, unforgettable experience.
THIS IS HOW GUNDEL WILL BE FOR EVERYONE!
“One ball, one smile” – The charitable message of the Gundel Ball
The essence of the initiative is simple and heartfelt.
Inside the Palace, guests can place balls on a specially designed installation.
Each ball is a symbol of a small gesture of kindness.
A single gesture, a small act of kindness, is enough to change someone's day—and sometimes their entire future.
The symbolism of the game is particularly close to Gundel's philosophy: it connects people, creates community, and gives every child the chance to experience the joy that is the greatest gift of childhood. A ball is a simple object — yet it can move the world by inviting movement, freedom, and playfulness.
"Because everyone should get their share of the glow."
The balls collected during the "One Ball, One Smile" event represent real value. After the ball, they will be given to institutions where the joy of playing can live on even after the ball is over.
Join us in this mission.
Be part of the celebration that collects smiles — and passes them on!
Gundel is for everyone – and so is the ball!
Gundel is for everyone
– and so is the ball!
The road to the Gundel Ball
– music and dance evenings
The road to the Gundel Ball
– music and dance evenings
The series of the Gundel music and dance evenings was the predecessor of the spirit of the ball.
These evenings revived the joy of dancing and celebration, creating a community where a love of dance, live music, delicious dinners, and shared experiences brought guests together each time—with Gundel's signature elegance and natural warmth.
Dress code – and what lies behind it
The dress code for the Gundel Ball is black tie, i.e. elegant ball attire. >This is not merely a formal requirement, but a shared gesture: a subtle expression of respect for the venue, the occasion, and each other. Because here, elegance is not a privilege, but an attitude—part of our shared radiance.
The visual world of the ball and the dress code concept are dreamed up by Zsolt Ordasi, the official stylist of the Gundel Ball. He recommends a clean yet elegant look that matches the glamour of the event and the personal elegance of the guests.
Guests can also take advantage of personalized style advice:
Anyone can make an appointment with Zsolt to ensure they look their best—adding to the magic of the evening while preserving everyone's individual character.
In creating the style, Zsolt Ordasi, the official stylist of the Gundel Ball, provides guidance and inspiration so that every guest can shine in their own light among the stars.
The starlit courtyard invites you to stop and take a break: this is where you can experience the "Among the Stars" theme most authentically.
The special experience of stargazing helps everyone put their phones aside for a moment, look up at the sky, and simply enjoy the quiet splendor of the celebration.
The Gundel Palace is not just a venue on this evening.
A journey that leads everyone to a personal experience: a smile, a toast, a dance step, a captivating melody.
Az épület falai között a vendégek lépései történetté válnak — olyan emlékké, amelyet jó lesz majd felidézni.
Let the Palace become the stage for your story too.
Take your place among the stars and arrive for an evening that Gundel will complete with your light.
