What will the Advent markets be like in Budapest this year? Program and important information in one place

Are you ready to experience the charm of Budapest?

Imagine yourself relaxing in thermal springs, enjoying delicious food, and exploring the city’s history and romantic atmosphere.

As the holiday season approaches, Budapest becomes a magical wonderland with beautiful lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Have you ever considered spending a weekend in Budapest before Christmas?

Don’t miss the chance to visit the unforgettable Christmas markets in Budapest. Stay tuned for more details!

Budapest Advent Markets

Immerse yourself in the joyful holiday atmosphere at the Budapest Advent Markets and discover the hidden treasure of Hungary’s capital.

The main market in Vörösmarty Square, near the famous Chain Bridge, is a must-see.

You can also visit other markets across the city, including the impressive Advent fair near St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Budapest’s festive charm offers a memorable experience filled with warmth, joy, and delightful discoveries!

Advent market at Szent István

Voted Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Market three times, this year’s celebration lives up to its reputation.

With nearly a hundred local craft exhibitors, gastronomic adventures, an ice-skating rink, heart-warming programs, and many more surprises, the authentic Christmas atmosphere will once again move into the heart of Budapest to Szent István Square.

Let’s celebrate and prepare together for the most beautiful holiday of the year!

When and where will it all take place?

Szent István Advent Market Program

If you want to experience one of Europe’s most beautiful Advent markets, don’t miss the lovely Christmas markets in the Szent István Square in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

The market is full of energy and has a magical atmosphere.

Nearly a hundred vendors will be selling handcrafted items like ceramics and jewelry.

There’s also a variety of delicious food to try – including sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan choices.

The square will have a beautiful Christmas tree, a nativity scene, and an Advent wreath in front of the basilica. Everywhere you look, you’ll be surrounded by the enchanting Christmas atmosphere.

Every day, between 4:30 pm and 10 pm, the Basilica’s facade transforms into a beautiful Christmas visual narrative every 30 minutes. This year’s special feature will be a 3D projection of the Basilica, visible from all corners of St. Stephen’s Square, with 3D glasses.

Don’t miss out on the fun—bring the kids to the artificial skating rink right in the middle of all the festive fun. Skating courses are available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for children aged 4-14.

The best part? It’s completely free to join the skating training on the beautifully decorated rink at the heart of the market.

Starting on November 24th, the Goncol Folk Dance Ensemble will perform twenty-minute shows every Friday and Saturday evening.

The ensemble aims to keep traditions alive and showcase their beauty to each generation. They will either improvise a ‘dance house’ that all the fair’s guests may join or surprise the audience with lively flash mobs.

Join the dancers to try your hand at Hungarian folk dance, or simply enjoy a festive Hungarian Folk Dance Show.

Vörösmarty Square Advent market

Looking for a magical Christmas market in Budapest? You’ve got to check out the festive fair at Vörösmarty Tér (Vörösmarty Square)!

It’s right in the heart of Budapest, at the end of the yellow metro line and the main shopping street, Váci Utca.

Do not forget that all streets have two ends, and if you end up at the wrong end of the street you will find yourself walking inside the Grand Market Hall (not a bad place, but not the best if you would like to visit the Christmas market at the Vörösmarty square).

When and where will it all take place?

Vörösmarty Square Advent market program

The Christmas market on Vörösmarty Square wouldn’t be complete without the beautiful crafts and treats, artistic prints, self-designed spatial ornaments, designer pieces, and other decorative elements made by local artisans. You can find all sorts of small handmade treasures waiting for you!

We have compiled a short list of local artists you can meet at this advent market. However, this is only a small fraction of the total number – you can look forward to much more!

Bartha Comb

Bartha Combs, a family business, has a long history. Its products mainly consist of horn objects based on old family patterns and numerous new, individually designed and crafted pieces. Their offer includes horn combs, hairpins, earrings, jewelry, household items, and hunting horns.

Mariiko knitted accessories

The colorful world of Mariiko offers hand-knitted scarves, hats, and other accessories made from fine materials, exclusive yarns, and unique designs.

Manni Mezes

The couple from the Great Plains engage in various activities such as creating and publishing ethnographic postcards and calendars, baking gingerbread, managing folk playhouses, and taking photos at fairs and other events.

Amazing food

The selection of traditional Hungarian dishes is complemented by small sweets and drinks made from selected local ingredients. There is lots of meat, fish, and vegetables, all prepared in well-seasoned dishes. Or you can choose the best Hungarian wines, cakes, roasted chestnuts, chocolates, marzipan, strudels and gingerbread.

The only downside is the price. It can be quite surprising how expensive the food is at the Christmas market compared to local restaurants and pubs.

The amazing thing is that there are many benches and tables at the Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square, so you can enjoy your food, rest for a while, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Attractions

One of the main attractions of this Advent fair is the children’s train, which operates on weekdays and weekends. This activity will sure keep the little ones entertained while their parents sip a glass of hot tea or wine.

The craft corner offers entertainment for young visitors. The kids can learn the ins and outs of candle making, beading, basketry, felting, and baking gingerbread.

Each workshop will focus on a different art and craft project, helping children and their parents prepare for the year-end festivities.

For many years, there has been a tradition of having a large stage at the square. The stage has hosted daily concerts, folklore programs, and other cultural events. In 2022, the stage was removed, but it returned for the Christmas market. Now, visitors can enjoy live concerts, art performances, and more.

You can better understand what Christmas Budapest looks like through the following video.

Budapest Christmas Markets

Final tip before your trip

• At the Christmas fair in Vörösmarty Square, you can pay only with a bank/credit card. Vendors at St. Stephen’s Basilica accept both cards and cash.
• Take advantage of the Budapest Card, which gives you free public transport, free or discounted entry to many attractions, and other discounts.
• Budapest’s winters can be chilly, with temperatures hovering around freezing. Pack warm layers—thermals, a winter coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy boots with good grip are essential.
• Budapest’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration also occurs at Vörösmarty Square. The square’s stalls and stage provide the necessary surroundings for such a celebration. Consider making your stay a bit longer and celebrating the New Year in Budapest!

Discover Budapest’s amazing Christmas markets! You can enjoy the festive spirit, try yummy Hungarian food, and have a great time exploring the city during winter.