An all-inclusive guide to Hungarian Christmas fairs

Christmas markets are signaling the beginning of Advent. Or should we say, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas”? In our post, you will find all the necessary information on the spectacular Advent markets. 

Hungarian Christmas fairs 

Advent begins on the 1^st of December, but most fairs already opened in late November. Budapest’s two major Christmas markets are open since the 18^th of November. Hungary is one of the few countries with two Advent markets included in CNN’s compilation.

• Stephen’s Basilica Christmas market: there are more than 150 stalls, where you can buy sweet treats, hot drinks, arts and crafts, and also some popular Hungarian food – like lángos (deep fried flat bread), kürtöskalács (chimney cake), kenyérlángos (focaccia pizza). There is a regular 3D light show projected on the wall of the stunning St. Stephen’s Basilica. It is launched every hour, so you cannot miss it. You can also go ice skating if you feel like it since a mini ice rink has been built around the enormous Christmas tree. The Advent fair was chosen as Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market in 2022 on the European Best Destinations travel portal.
• Vörösmarty Square Christmas market: this one is also equally spectacular and will leave you with long-lasting memories. There are an infinite number of vendors, selling all kinds of edible and decorative goods. The main attraction of the market is the giant advent calendar projected on the windows of an adjacent building. Festive lights, music and mouth-watering delicacies will ensure the Christmas spirit. 

Apart from Budapest, you should also consider visiting some other Hungarian cities. You can get a great insight into the traditions and the unique ways locals anticipate and celebrate Christmas. 

Here is a list of some rural towns places with must-visit Advent fairs: Debrecen, Győr, Kaposvár, Nyíregyháza, Sopron, Szeged, Szolnok and Zalaegerszeg.

Read also: Debrecen Advent named as one of the 20 best small Christmas markets in Europe

Skyrocketing prices

Domestic inflation affects prices in the market too. Foods and drinks became horribly expensive this year. If you want to share a dinner with your family, it will cost you at least HUF 1,500 (EUR 3.69) per person – drinks not included. 

Portfolio.hu visited the Vörösmarty Square Christmas market to check out the prices. Have a look at their findings:

• Chimney cake: HUF 2,200 – 2,600 (EUR 5.41 – 6.40)
• Deep-fried flatbread: HUF 1,750 – 2,450 (EUR 4.31 – 6.03)
• Goulash soup: HUF 4,500 (EUR 11.07)

Hungarian Christmas markets are great fun for foreigners who can try there all the traditional Hungarian food and drinks. Their locations are also ideal since the fairs, for example, at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica are among the main sights of the city. However, the prices are mainly suited for foreigners’ pockets. Nevertheless, everyone can find something in their preferred price range, according to the organisers. Signage and price tags are written both in English and Hungarian, so you will not have an issue if you are visiting from abroad. 

Read also: Budapest’s Christmas market among the world’s 50 best!

Author: Balázs Horváth 

Source: cnn.com, portfolio.hu