Budapest Christmas Market at City Hall Park 2025

Budapest lights up with festive magic starting November 14, 2025, when the Budapest Christmas Market opens its gates at City Hall Park and Deák Ferenc Square. Hosted by the City of Budapest and Budapest Market Halls, this charming Christmas market brings holiday cheer to the heart of downtown with unique handcrafted gifts, traditional winter treats, and a special ice-skating rink surrounded by twinkling lights.
Essential Information at a Glance
- Event: Budapest Christmas 2025 (Budapest Karácsony 2025)
- Opening Date: November 14, 2025 at 5:00 PM
- Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 10, 2026
- Location: City Hall Park (Városháza park) and Deák Ferenc Square, downtown Budapest
- Organizers: City of Budapest and Budapest Market Halls (BVCS)
- Opening Ceremony: Mayor Gergely Karácsony and Tamás Földes, Managing Director of BVCS
- Getting There: M1, M2, M3 metro lines to Deák Ferenc station
- Free Entry: No admission fee
Two Festive Locations
The market spreads across two connected downtown locations, creating a winter wonderland in the heart of Budapest. At City Hall Park, you’ll find the ice-skating rink and festive atmosphere, while Deák Ferenc Square hosts the bustling Christmas market stalls. Both areas come together to offer a complete holiday experience just steps from the metro station.
Ice Skating Under the Stars
Glide across the ice-skating rink designed for both children and adults, surrounded by the magical glow of holiday lights. The rink provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy winter activities in the city center while soaking up the festive atmosphere. With on-site skate rental and a cozy warming area, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable experience. Whether you’re an experienced skater or trying it for the first time, this charming setting makes for an unforgettable experience. The ice rink stays open through January 31, 2026, giving you extra weeks to enjoy winter fun even after the market closes.
Winter Treats and Street Food
Warm up with traditional Hungarian winter specialties and international street food favorites. Sip steaming mugs of mulled wine specialties while browsing the market stalls. Indulge in authentic chimney cake, prepared the traditional way over charcoal, along with hearty soups and classic Christmas dishes. Sample honey specialties, freshly made lángos, salmon, handmade chocolates, and other seasonal treats that capture the authentic flavors of a Hungarian Christmas. From savory street food to sweet delights, you’ll find plenty of comfort food to keep you cozy during your visit.
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Handcrafted Market and Unique Gifts
Browse the handcraft market featuring unique handmade gifts and festive decorations created by local Hungarian artisans. You’ll discover one-of-a-kind presents including ceramics and Christmas ornaments, handmade leather products, alpaca and natural material jewelry, dried flower wreaths, decorative candle holders, marzipan figures, and specialty desserts. Supporting these local creators adds an authentic touch to your holiday shopping experience, and you’re sure to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.
Spectacular Light Projections and Programs
Experience stunning light projections that illuminate the Merlin Theatre and City Hall building, creating a magical ambiance throughout the evening. The festive light displays transform the downtown area into a glowing winter wonderland, capturing the true spirit of Christmas in Budapest. Join the Advent candle lighting ceremonies held on four consecutive weekends, enjoy cultural programs and performances, and don’t miss the special Santa Tram or Santa events taking place at 8 locations on December 5-6. Regular entertainment ensures there’s always something special happening during your visit.
Planning Your Visit
City Hall Park and Deák Ferenc Square sit in the heart of Budapest’s downtown area, making them easily accessible from anywhere in the city. The location is right at Deák Ferenc Square, where three metro lines converge, making it one of the most convenient Christmas markets to reach. You can easily combine your visit with nearby attractions like Fashion Street for shopping or other downtown Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica, all within walking distance.
The market runs daily through January 10, 2026, with the ice rink extending until January 31, 2026, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience the festive atmosphere whether you’re visiting Budapest for a weekend getaway or an extended holiday trip. The combination of ice skating with rental facilities, traditional street food including chimney cake and mulled wine specialties, handcraft market, spectacular light projections, and special holiday programs makes this Christmas market a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Budapest during the holiday season.
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