Margarita Workshop – Santa's Twist Edition
Tereza kicks off the festive season on 4 December with a special Margarita Workshop – Santa’s Twist Edition, where holiday cheer meets cocktail-making flair. From 7pm, participants can dive into the art of mixing three signature margaritas – classic, hibiscus, and frozen – all guided by Tereza’s expert mentors, who turn each pour and shake into a smooth ritual.
Details here
The Grand W Christmas Market
On December 6, W Budapest turns its W Lounge & Courtyard into a festive, design-forward Christmas market celebrating conscious gifting and curated style. From 12pm to 7pm, you can browse a beautifully selected lineup of local brands and independent designers who work with slow fashion, recycled materials, and mindful craftsmanship.
Details here
Christmas Workshop & Festive Cruise
On 6 December, you can join a festive Christmas workshop aboard a Mahart Cruises boat, where you’ll create a natural orange-and-cinnamon wreath under the guidance of Farmgirls Virágda. The participation fee includes all materials and tools, plus lemonade and cake – and at the end of the workshop, a glass of mulled wine or tea. The crafting session is followed by a 60-minute Danube cruise on the beautifully decorated holiday deck.
Details here
KAM x Tejhab Cocktail Afterparty
On 6 December, La mousse de lait (tejhab) hosts a cosy cocktail afterparty from 6pm to midnight, complete with a one-off menu, festive drinks and a warm, intimate atmosphere. A surprise DJ will set the mood, making it a stylish way to ease into the holiday season.
Details here
Santa Claus Run
Another 7 December tradition: Budapest’s annual Santa Run. Thousands of participants jog through the city dressed in bright red Santa suits, turning the streets into a moving sea of festive cheer. You can run, jog, walk, or simply cheer from the sidelines — either way, it’s impossible not to feel the holiday spirit.
Details here
Ice Rinks Around the City
It wouldn’t be December in Budapest without a spin on the ice. City Park Ice Rink remains the star of the season with its grand setting beside Vajdahunyad Castle, but smaller rinks across the city — Óbuda, Városháza, and Budapest Park — also offer magical skating sessions. Rent skates on-site, warm up with a hot drink, and enjoy a quintessential Budapest winter moment.
Details here
Makers’ Market
Makers’ Market Budapest brings festive vibes to its winter venue near Móricz Zsigmond Square, inside the Villányi út Conference Centre (Villányi út 11–13). Over seventy designers will showcase jewellery, ceramics, prints, fashion and gourmet treats — perfect for picking up unique, locally made Christmas gifts while meeting the creatives behind them. The fair highlights contemporary Hungarian design, offers a cosy seasonal atmosphere, and, as always, welcomes dogs too.
Details here
Julbord at Nor/ma Grand
On 13 December at 4pm, nor/ma grand hosts Julbord, the beloved Scandinavian pre-Christmas feast that celebrates warmth, togetherness and winter flavours. Expect a cosy atmosphere, seasonal Nordic dishes and a relaxed holiday mood as you gather around the festive table. Tickets are HUF 7,990 and can be purchased here.
Details here
Cause Lab Opening
On 13 December, Cause Lab opens its doors with a stylish launch event. Expect creative workshops, fashion pop-ups, music and a beautifully curated community space. If you enjoy design, crafts or supporting local creators, this new spot deserves a place on your December list.
Details here
Secret Market
On 20 December, the Secret Market pops up inside the elegant Marble Hall of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. From 10am to 6pm you can browse unique pieces by Hungarian makers, then pair your visit with a City Park walk, a Zoo stop or a relaxing soak in the thermal pools. Entry is free.
Details here
Spend a Family Day Out in Budapest
December is a great month for a cosy family outing in Budapest. Kids can explore the colourful LEGO world of KockaPark, meet sharks and tropical fish at the Tropicarium, or enjoy a festive spin at the City Park Ice Rink. If you’re after something calmer, hop on the Children’s Railway for a magical winter ride through the Buda Hills. Wrap up the day with a warm, family-friendly dinner in the city — a simple, cheerful way to enjoy the season together.
Details here
Celebrate Christmas & New Year
December in Budapest ends on a high note, with Christmas lights glowing across the city and New Year’s Eve celebrations filling every corner. Whether you’re after a cosy dinner, a lively party or a quiet winter stroll, the festive mood is impossible to miss. On 31 December, the city rings in 2026 with fireworks lighting up the Danube — some of the best viewpoints include the Chain Bridge, the Buda Castle terraces, Gellért Hill and the riverside promenades. Wrap up warm, find your spot and join the countdown as Budapest welcomes the New Year in sparkling style.
(Cover photo: Sybille Reuter / Getty Images)
Legyetek ott első városi piknikünkön!
Gyertek, és töltsünk el egy vidám napsütéses tavaszi napot együtt a városligeti fák lombjai között május 1-jén, ahol day-time piknik, workshopok, sok szuper food truck és dizájnvásár is vár mindenkit.
Ünnepeljük együtt a tavaszt, a találkozásokat és azt a pezsgést, amiért annyira szeretjük Budapestet!
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