From now until the 1st of January 2024, an authentic Christmas atmosphere can be felt once again in the heart of Budapest at Szent István Square by the beautiful Basilica.

Having been voted Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Market three times already, this year the market area again lives up to its reputation, with nearly a hundred local craft exhibitors, real gastro adventures, an ice-skating rink, heart-warming programmes and many more surprises.

The centre of the square is dominated by a magnificent Christmas tree, almost 12 metres tall, which again sets the tone for Szent István Square.

The smiles and laughter of children are the best part of Christmas, and this year the Little Ones favourite is the free skating rink, open every day from 5pm for children under 14 - those who come to the square without equipment can rent skates at the rink.

Authentic Hungarian craft exhibitors

Experienced and long-standing ceramists, leather craftsmen and jewellers are very welcome to return, but visitors will also be able to meet new exhibitors and their products. Nearly a hundred exhibitors await visitors to the fair with beautiful, authentic creations. 

Local Xmas Gastronomy

In addition to authentic winter flavours, there will be Hungaricums and real culinary thrills for gastronomic adventurers. 

In front of the Basilica, the manger of Bethlehem and the monumental Advent wreath will take their rightful place, and of course, the Advent candle-lighting ceremony will be a must have programme.

Everyone can also have fun with a selfie point and a spectacular blacksmith's workshop, or the VR sleigh, which combines modern technology with the wonder of Christmas.

And finally, the all time favourite: every afternoon from 5.30pm, the Basilica façade will be dazzled by a magnificent light painting show, preceded by a musical concert on Wednesday, Friday and at weekends from 5pm. 

You can see a detailed program here

General opening times:

Monday-Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Friday-Saturday: 11 AM - 11 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM

Special opening times:

Christmas:
24December of 2023: 11 AM - 3 PM
25-26December of 2023: 11 AM - 8 PM

New Year’s Eve - 31 December 2023:
11 AM - 3 AM

New Year's Day 1 January 2024:
11 AM - 6 PM

Source: 
adventbazilika.hu/en