Published: November 27 2023
Experience the magic of Budapest's new Christmas fair and ice rink located in the city center. The fair and rink were opened by Gergely Karácsony, the incumbent mayor of Budapest, adding to the festive atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Location and Attractions
The Christmas fair and ice rink are situated in the City Hall Park (Városháza Park) on Deák Ferenc Square, in downtown Budapest. The fair features traditional Hungarian chimney cakes, and visitors can also participate in the Christmas Shoebox Presents campaign organized by Hungarians Baptist Aid. The ice rink is a brand new addition and will remain open until 7th January, providing a delightful experience for both locals and tourists.
Festive Celebrations
To enhance the holiday spirit, Gergely Karácsony has ensured that decorative lighting will be installed throughout the fair. On 3rd December, an Advent candle-lighting celebration will take place. Additionally, on 6th December, Santa Claus will make an appearance at the Deák Square Christmas Fair, delighting the first 300 children with presents.
Charity Involvement
The Hungarians Baptist Aid is running a Christmas Shoebox Presents campaign, collecting donations until 18th December. The aim is to distribute these presents to children living in difficult socio-economic circumstances. Last year, more than 60,000 shoeboxes were collected, making it Hungary's biggest charity campaign. Donations can be made at any of the 400 collection points throughout Hungary.
Alternative to Vörösmarty Square
Previously, Budapest's renowned Christmas Fair took place at Vörösmarty Square. However, this year the fair was relocated due to political conflicts and high prices. While the Vörösmarty Square fair attracts mostly tourists, the new fair in City Hall Park offers an alternative experience that appeals to both locals and tourists alike.
Questions & Answers
Where is the Christmas fair and ice rink located in Budapest? The Christmas fair and ice rink are located at Deák Ferenc Square, in the city's downtown, specifically in the City Hall Park (Városháza Park).
When does the Christmas fair and ice rink open in Budapest? The Christmas fair and ice rink are already open and will remain open until January 7th.
Who opened the Christmas fair and ice rink in Budapest? The Christmas fair and ice rink were opened by Gergely Karácsony, Budapest's incumbent mayor.
What is the Christmas Shoebox Presents campaign? The Christmas Shoebox Presents campaign is organized by the Hungarians Baptist Aid. They collect shoeboxes filled with presents and distribute them among children living in difficult socio-economic circumstances. Donations can be made at 400 collection points in Hungary until December 18th.
Where is Hungary's world-known Christmas Fair located in Budapest? Hungary's world-known Christmas Fair is located on Vörösmarty Square, a few blocks away from the Christmas fair and ice rink on Deák Ferenc Square.
Why was another Christmas Fair organized in Budapest? Another Christmas Fair was organized in Budapest because the government took control of Vörösmarty Square away from Budapest and gave it to the Fidesz-led 5th district. As a result, the Budapest leadership decided to organize another Christmas Fair near Vörösmarty Square.
Are the Christmas Fairs in Budapest expensive? The prices at the Christmas Fair on Vörösmarty Square are very high, which is why most of the visitors are foreigners. It is unclear if the prices at the Christmas fair and ice rink on Deák Ferenc Square are also high.
