December has properly arrived, and Budapest is glowing from every corner — river cruises, design fairs, ice rinks and festive food are all waiting to ease you into the season. Whether you want to sip cocktails, craft something wintry, or wander through markets with a mulled wine in hand, this weekend has plenty to offer.

Friday, 5 December

HAPPY HOUR AT TIME OUT MARKET

If you’re after an easy start to Friday night, Time Out Market’s Spirit Bar is a safe bet. From 5pm to 7pm, long drinks come with a buy one, get one free offer, and anyone booking a table with “Spirit Bar” in the notes gets a complimentary round of shots. 

Details here

DECEMBER LIGHTS AND ICE RINK NIGHTS

Óbuda’s Christmas market is especially lovely this time of year, with its small-town feel and glowing decorations. Or, if you’re feeling active, lace up your skates and head to the ice rink at Budapest Park for a crisp winter spin.

Details here and here

TRY A NEW SMASHBURGER ON WESSELÉNYI STREET

If you’re wandering around the Jewish Quarter this weekend, make time for a quick bite at 3AT Burger near Klauzál Square. It’s a tiny, casual spot with excellent smashburgers — freshly smashed patties, soft potato buns and a few playful seasonal options on the menu. Perfect for a warming, no-frills comfort stop between markets, workshops and evening plans.

Details here

Saturday, 6 December

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

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 7 pm, 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

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. Table bookings are recommended via @lamoussedelaitbudapest.

Details here

Sunday, 7 December

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

GREEN MARKET CHRISTMAS FAIR AT KLAUZÁL SQUARE HALL

The beloved Green Market returns to the Klauzál tér Market Hall for a festive edition on November 30, December 7, and December 14 (10 am – 5 pm). Browse through handcrafted gifts, sustainable products, vintage finds, natural cosmetics, and delicious artisan treats — all from local creators. With live music, family activities, and a vintage clothing market in the courtyard, it's the perfect cozy spot to shop, connect, and get into the Christmas spirit. Entry is free.

Details here

SANTA CLAUS RUN

Another December tradition: Budapest's annual Santa Run on 7 December. 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

(Cover photo: Kálló Péter)

Megjelent első bookazine-unk, ne maradj le róla!

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Rendeld meg itt vagy keresd a nagyobb könyvesboltokban!

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