Fun Things to Do in Budapest This Week: 18-24 December

Published: December 18 2023

Looking for something fun to do in Budapest this week? Whether you're a local or just passing through, we have some great suggestions to keep you entertained. From Christmas fairs to music concerts and film festivals, there's something for everyone in the city.

The Advent fairs in Budapest are a must-visit during the holiday season. Take a magical stroll through the fairgrounds, surrounded by fairy lights and the aroma of mulled wine. While the Advent Basilica Christmas fair has been named Europe's most beautiful for the fourth time, there are other charming markets worth exploring. Some of the top fairs include the Christmas Fair at St. Stephen's Basilica, the Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square, and the Christmas Market In Fashion Street/Deák Ferenc Street.

If you're a fan of live music, check out the Liszt Academy's website for upcoming concerts. From the 18th to the 23rd of December, there are amazing performances lined up, with tickets still available for most shows. And if you're interested in classical opera, the Hungarian State Opera is presenting "DER MESSIAS (MESSIAH)" on the 18th of December, "TOSCA" on the 20th of December, "ARTABAN" on the 20th of December, and "LA BOHÈME" on the 21st of December.

For a taste of Italy, head to the Urania National Film Theatre for the ongoing Italian Journey event. On the 18th of December, you can catch the screening of the film "Break Free," with director Gianluca Maria Tavarelli in attendance. The film, shown in Italian with Hungarian subtitles, promises a perfect evening for movie lovers. And if you can't make it this week, the Italian Journey event will continue into 2024 with more captivating Italian films.

Want to experience a spectacular festival? The Year of the Dragon Lantern Festival is taking place from the 16th of December to the 24th of February at the Biodome on Állatkerti Boulevard. This festival features interactive light installations, Chinese cultural traditions, and stunning projections. As you walk along the illuminated path, you'll encounter exotic animals, flowers, and mythical creatures. It's a unique experience that's perfect for all ages, especially during the cold winter evenings.

So, whether you're in the mood for Christmas cheer, music concerts, a film screening, or a lantern festival, Budapest has plenty of options to keep you entertained this week. Enjoy!

What are some of the popular Christmas fairs in Budapest? Some popular Christmas fairs in Budapest include the Christmas Fair at St. Stephen’s Basilica, Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square, Christmas Market In Fashion Street/Deák Ferenc Street, Christmas Market at Erzsébet Square, Winter Festival In Városháza/City Hall Park, Advent Festival In Madách Square, and Christmas Fair In Gozsdu Court.

Where can I find information about upcoming concerts in Budapest? You can find information about upcoming concerts in Budapest on the Liszt Academy's website. Tickets are still available for most concerts, including the Young Singaporean Talents in Concert event, which is free of charge. The Hungarian State Opera also has a number of concerts scheduled, including DER MESSIAS (MESSIAH), TOSCA, ARTABAN, and LA BOHÈME.

Is there an Italian Film Festival happening in Budapest? Yes, there is an Italian Film Festival happening in Budapest. It is called the Italian Journey event and is taking place at Urania National Film Theatre. On the 18th of December, you can catch the film Break Free, with director Gianluca Maria Tavarelli in attendance. The event will continue into 2024 with more captivating Italian films.

Is there a Year of the Dragon Lantern Festival in Hungary? Yes, there is a Year of the Dragon Lantern Festival in Hungary. It takes place between the 16th of December and the 24th of February at the Biodome on Állatkerti Boulevard. The festival features interactive light installations that showcase Chinese cultural traditions, classical Chinese masterpieces, and Eastern mythological stories. Visitors can also see exotic animals and flowers along the illuminated path.