Fairytale Advent market and festive programmes begin today in Pécs, Hungary!
Pécs once again welcomes visitors with a warm and enchanting festive atmosphere as the 14th Advent Handicraft and Story Market (XIV. Adventi Kézműves- és Mesevásár) opens on Széchenyi Square. Running from 28 November to 24 December, the event transforms the city centre with a blend of artisan stalls, culinary treats, light installations, theatrical and musical performances, and a wide variety of children’s activities.
A colourful programme from opening day to Christmas in Pécs
The market opens on 28 November at 5 pm with Swing Christmas, a concert by Emerton Award-winning singer Gabi Szűcs, setting the tone for the Advent season. Over the following weeks, Széchenyi Square will host daily festive performances featuring artists such as Cimbaliband, Tamás Kéméndi and Anna Györfi, the Belvárosi Betyárok, Boggie, FiveLive Acappella, Szélkiáltó and Latte Maffiato. Thanks to the support of the Rotary Club Pécs, local schoolchildren will also present their Christmas shows, while on Saturday evenings students from the Dzsászti Singing Studio will surprise visitors with short balcony concerts from the Town Hall.
Weekends bring extra experiences for families, including Story Corner performances, craft workshops, guided Advent walks, Nativity-themed activities, and festive concerts by the Pécs National Theatre. Each Saturday, an ecumenical candle-lighting ceremony will take place at the city’s large Advent wreath. Traditional events return this year as well, including Seeking Shelter for the Holy Family, St Nicholas Day programmes, and a special performance of Salem on St Lucy’s Day at the House of Arts and Literature. For the Winter Solstice celebration, the One Two Many and Tűzmadarak performance groups will present a spectacular LED and fire show.
Lights, scents and seasonal delights
The historic city centre is dressed for the season, with artisan stalls and gastronomic exhibitors offering memorable experiences for all visitors. Warm drinks, freshly prepared snacks, illuminated arches and photo spots help create a magical festive atmosphere.
Children’s drawings and light projections on the Mosque
At weekends, the Mosque of Pasha Qasim is illuminated by artwork from the Advent Light-Painting Drawing Competition. On other days, Adam Baglyas (Gonzo Visuals) presents his impressive Advent-themed video mapping, which expands with new visuals each evening between 28 November and 23 December. The four-part animation pays tribute to Pécs’ iconic landmarks and cultural heritage.
Shoebox charity appeal for those in need
From 21 November, the Christmas Shoebox Donation initiative has returned to the Cella Septichora Visitor Centre. Donations will be accepted until 19 December, with packages labelled with the recipient’s name and age. The aim is to brighten the festive season for those in need.
Festive experiences beyond the city centre
During the Advent period, the Kodály Centre hosts a series of festive concerts, while the Zsolnay Quarter transforms into a magical light park in the evenings. Visitors can explore the Enchanted Forest of Lights, part of the DECOLED Story of Lights exhibition, offering a captivating experience for all ages.
Opening hours
HANDICRAFT COURTYARD (Széchenyi Square)
Monday–Thursday: 10:00–18:00
Friday–Sunday: 10:00–20:00
GASTRO COURTYARD (Széchenyi Square)
Monday–Thursday: 12:00–22:00
Friday–Sunday: 12:00–23:00
Further details are available on the market’s official website.