New Hampshire to Mark Hungarian Democracy Day

State and local officials will honor the 1956 revolution anniversary with commemorations on October 23.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Civic

The granite dome of the New Hampshire State House glowing against a deep blue evening sky. — New Hampshire will host commemorative events across Concord and Portsmouth on October 23, 2026, marking the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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New Hampshire will observe Hungarian Freedom and Democracy Day on October 23, 2026. This commemoration marks the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution with events in Concord and Portsmouth.

Why it matters

These events honor the historic struggle for freedom and the significant number of Hungarian refugees who relocated to the United States. It also serves as a point of cultural reflection following the recent political transition in Hungary.

The commemorative events recognize the 70th anniversary of the 1956 revolution, an uprising that saw 200,000 Hungarians flee their country. Today, the Tisza party maintains a 70% majority in the Hungarian parliament following their April 2026 electoral win.

The players

Ayotte

As the Governor of New Hampshire, she issued the official proclamation recognizing the day of observance.

McEachern

Serving as the Mayor of Portsmouth, he issued a local proclamation for the day of commemoration.

Ja'nos Kover

He is a Hungarian artist who created the memorial plaque currently displayed at the State House.

Sylvia Rich

She serves as the Honorary Consul of Hungary and is expected to attend the State House reception.

Peter Somssich

He is a notable individual who was among the 47,000 Hungarian refugees that relocated to the USA after the 1956 revolution.

The details

On October 23, the State House in Concord will host a remembrance event beginning at 2 PM, featuring a reception and comments at a plaque created by Hungarian artist Ja'nos Kover. Simultaneously, the Memorial Bridge in Portsmouth will be illuminated in the red, white, and green colors of the Hungarian flag.

October 23, 1957: Governor Lane Dwinell authorized the installation of the memorial plaque.
April 2026: The government of Prime Minister Victor Orban was replaced by the Tisza party.
October 23, 2026: New Hampshire will observe Hungarian Freedom and Democracy Day.

Industry Dynamics

The events align with historical commemorations of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, a global cultural touchstone for anti-totalitarian movements. This year, the observances bridge traditional memorial efforts with contemporary political shifts occurring within Hungary.

Residents can view the Memorial Bridge illumination in Portsmouth, which will be featured during the WMUR 10 O'clock news broadcast. The public is also invited to attend the remembrance ceremony at the State House in Concord.

The takeaway

These events provide a structured way for the community to engage with 70 years of history and the ongoing evolution of international democratic processes. Residents interested in history may find the plaque at the State House to be a meaningful point of personal reflection.