Buda Castle Christmas Market – Advent Fair by Matthias Church

November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Daily 09:00–20:00
Location: 1014 Budapest, Szentháromság tér

This winter, the enchanting spirit of Advent returns to the historic heart of Budapest. From November 28 to January 4, Buda Castle transforms into a sparkling festive wonderland, inviting visitors of all ages to experience the warmth, flavours, artistry, and traditions of the holiday season.

A Fairytale Advent in the Castle District

Wander through our atmospheric Advent Market, where local artisans showcase their unique handcrafted treasures—from traditional ornaments and ceramics to contemporary design pieces. The scent of seasonal treats and warm, comforting drinks fills the air, making every stroll a delightful culinary journey.

Throughout the festive period, uplifting musical performances, dynamic dance shows, and family-friendly programs ensure joyful moments for children and adults alike. Every Sunday, we gather for a communal Advent candle-lighting ceremony—one of the most cherished traditions of the season.

All of this unfolds against the shimmering backdrop of Buda Castle’s historic architecture and the breathtaking panorama of the Danube, creating a truly unforgettable cultural and gastronomic experience.

Let’s celebrate the magic of Christmas together in Budavár!

Programme Highlights at the Advent Fair by Matthias Church

Opening Weekend – Advent Sunday Buda Castle District

• 11.28., 09:00 – Festive Opening Ceremony
• 11.30., 15:00 – Advent Concert by Vox Hungarica Women’s Choir
• 11.30., 15:30 – Performance by the Alpenrose German Nationality Dance Group from Budakalász
• 11.30., 16:00 – First Advent Candle-Lighting – Lighting Ceremony with Csilla Fazekas, Deputy Mayor of the Buda Castle District, and Father Domokos Jánosa (St. Anne Parish, Felsővíziváros).

Second Weekend – Advent Sunday Buda Castle District

• 12.07., 15:00 – Advent Programme by the Budavár Primary School & Performance by the Budavár Lutheran Gospel Choir
• 12.07., 16:00 – Second Advent Candle-Lighting- Lighting of the second candle by Mayor László Böröcz and Senior Pastor Péter Bedekovics (Budapest-Buda Reformed Church Congregation).
  

Third Weekend – Advent Sunday Buda Castle District

• 12.12., 17:00 – Advent Performance by the Kosztolányi Dezső Secondary School
• 12.14., 15:00 – Polish and Armenian Nationality Performances
• 12.14., 15:30 – Tibor Lukács: Advent Jewels – Classical and Modern Violin Melodies
• 12.14., 16:00 – Third Advent Candle-Lighting – Lighting Ceremony of the third candle by Deputy Mayor Artur Fodor and Father László Süllei (Matthias Church).
  

Fourth Weekend – Advent Sunday Buda Castle District

• 12.21., 15:00 – Advent Concert by Musica Historica Ensemble
• 12.21., 16:00 – Fourth Advent Candle-Lighting – Lighting Ceremony of the fourth candle by Eszter Bauer, Municipal Representative and Cultural Advisor, and Father József Tampu-Ababei (Krisztinaváros Parish).
  

After Christmas

• 12.27., 15:00 – Blues Concert by Mátyás Pribojszki & Ákos Horváth
• 12.28., 15:00 – Concert by the Bulgarian Nationality Community
• 12.31., 15:00–18:00 – New Year’s Eve Warm-Up Party with DJ Offen

Opening Hours

Advent Market

• Daily: 09:00–20:00
• December 24: 09:00–12:00
• December 25 & 26: 12:00–18:00
• January 1: 12:00–18:00
• December 31: Artisan stalls open 09:00–18:00; food & beverage vendors operate normally

Christmas Market Info Point

• Mon–Fri: 15:00–18:00
• Sat–Sun: 09:00–20:00
• Dec 25, 26, 31: 15:00–18:00

Support a Good Cause

This year, visitors can support the Budapest District I Public Welfare Foundation by purchasing the limited-edition Budavári Advent Mug—perfect as a holiday keepsake and for warming drinks throughout the season.

Photography and video recording may take place during the event. Capture memories—and perhaps be part of ours, too—shared on our website and social media channels

Join us for a festive season filled with light, music, tradition, and joy at Advent Fair by Matthias Church!