Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church Christmas Festival
Every year, the historic Buda Castle district in Budapest comes alive with the gentle charm of the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church Christmas Festival. Nestled in Szentháromság Square, this intimate seasonal market offers a peaceful, heartwarming celebration steeped in tradition.
Visitors can stroll through a small selection of thoughtfully curated artisan stalls featuring handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and traditional Hungarian treats. Local vendors offer delicacies like freshly baked chimney cakes, warming mulled wine, and the famed Beigli rolls from beloved patisseries. The market’s cozy atmosphere is perfect for leisurely exploration and meaningful holiday shopping.
The festival is accompanied by enchanting live performances, including Christmas concerts and folk dance shows held near the iconic Matthias Church. On select weekends, candle-lighting ceremonies add a reflective and festive touch. With its breathtaking views of the Danube and the historic grandeur of Buda Castle, this event offers an unforgettable seasonal experience in the heart of Budapest.
Weekend Highlights:
Enjoy enchanting Christmas concerts, festive dance performances, and joyful children’s programs, offering unforgettable experiences for all ages. On Sundays, join us for a heartwarming candle-lighting ceremony near Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
A Unique Setting:
The historic ambiance of Szentháromság Square in Buda Castle, coupled with the breathtaking views of the Danube and sparkling Christmas lights, creates an unforgettable festive atmosphere near Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
Program Highlights:
November 30, 2024, Saturday
11:00 AM – Budapest Hussar Brass Quintet (Brass Music, Traditional Hungarian Marching Band)
6:00 PM – Advent Grand Concert: Muzsikás Ensemble & Mária Petrás (Folk Music and Sacred Songs)
December 1, 2024, Sunday
11:00 AM – Bálint Bársony’s Advent Nativity Instrument Workshop (Folk Instruments)
5:00 PM – Hot Jazz Band (Swing & Jazz Classics)
5:45 PM – Advent Candle Lighting
December 7, 2024, Saturday
11:00 AM – Budapest Hussar Brass Quintet (Brass Music)
6:00 PM – Veronika Harcsa & Bálint Gyémánt (Contemporary Jazz & Acoustic)
December 8, 2024, Sunday
11:00 AM – Eszter-Lánc Fairytale Band (Children’s Music & Storytelling)
4:00 PM – Bartók Dance Ensemble (Folk Dance Performance)
4:45 PM – Advent Candle Lighting
5:00 PM – Barnabás Pély Jazz Duo (Soul & Jazz)
December 14, 2024, Saturday
11:00 AM – Budapest Hussar Brass Quintet (Brass Music)
6:00 PM – Ági Herczku and Band (Hungarian Folk & World Music)
December 15, 2024, Sunday
11:00 AM – Kaláka: Traditional Nativity Performance (Folk Music & Storytelling)
4:30 PM – Children’s Choir of Buda Castle (Choral Music)
4:45 PM – Advent Candle Lighting
5:00 PM – Kákics & Los Andinos Christmas Performance (Traditional and Latin Folk Music)
December 21, 2024, Saturday
10:00 AM – Budapest Hussar Brass Quintet (Brass Music)
6:00 PM – György Ferenczi & the Rackajam (Folk Rock & Blues)
December 22, 2024, Sunday
11:00 AM – Iszkiri Children’s Band (Children’s Pop Music)
4:00 PM – Bartók Dance Ensemble (Folk Dance Performance)
4:45 PM – Advent Candle Lighting
5:00 PM – Góbé Ensemble (Hungarian Folk Fusion)
Culinary Specialties:
- Asztalka Patisserie: Famous for their traditional Beigli (poppy seed and walnut rolls).
- Chimney Cake Vendors: Enjoy freshly baked chimney cakes from three different vendors throughout the market.
- Local Food Stalls: Offering traditional Hungarian specialties like Lángos, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine.
Event Details:
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – December 24, 2024
- Location: Szentháromság Square, 1014 Budapest, in the heart of Buda Castle near Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
Notice:
Please be aware that photo and audio recordings may be made during the event for promotional purposes on our website and social media platform.
Photo Credit: Budavári Önkormányzat Facebook page
