Heartwarming programs every day

Last year, the Advent Basilica won the title of Europe’s Best Christmas Market for the third time, making history, as only Budapest could achieve this feat after Zagreb. 2023 will also be a year of miracles, as the beauty of the holiday will move to Szent István Square in Budapest between 17th of November and 1st of January.

The centre of the square will be dominated by a magnificent Christmas tree, almost 12 metres tall, which will once again set 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.

We've even thought of those who come to the square without equipment, who can rent skates and shoes at the rink.

The Hungarian craft exhibitors will not be missed from Szent István Square in 2023. 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. 

The festival is also about 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 will 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, preceded by a musical concert on Wednesday, Friday and weekends from 5pm. 

 

For more information about the events and exhibitors, please visit our Facebook and Instagram pages.