Magic Garden

 Every weekend, the small park around the statue in the centre of the square turns into a magical realm for children. In addition to the continuous programme of the playhouse, you can also find a vast Advent wreath here.

The Flame of Peace from Bethlehem – lighting the candle together | 16 December

In a tradition that began in 1986, a candle is lit from a lamp in the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem, which volunteers try to take to as many countries by Christmas as possible. This year, the light is brought from Vienna to the centre of Budapest by the Hungarian Scout Association, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Feel free to light your own candle, and take the flame of Bethlehem to your home.

Lighting the Advent candles | on the Sundays of Advent, at 4 pm

Each of the four candles of the vast Advent wreath in the Magic Garden will be lit in a small ceremony.

Visit by the real Santa Claus | 6 December 3–4 pm

Have you met the real one yet? If you haven’t, this may be a good occasion to whisper your wishes. Children and adults alike can visit Joulupukki from Finland in his little cottage.

Santa Claus Factory collection point | 1

You can now give your donations to volunteers of the Santa Claus Factory on Vörösmarty Square as well as Heroes’ Square. The organizers hope to enrich the Christmas of 300, 000 children living in deep poverty or large families, and you can make your own contribution by buying such unique presents as the ‘Wish Powder’ or ‘Taste of Love’.

Guest of honour: Kalocsa |2

The town has become synonymous with its world-famous produce, paprika. Thanks in no small part to the travelling ‘circus’ of Formula One, Kalocsa is now also known the world over for a characteristic, colourful floral motif, which is currently enjoying a new renaissance. Get both reassure at your kiosk, where you can find the aromatic spice, as well as table cloths and porcelain objects decorated with the traditional flowers of Kalocsa, hand-crafted by local women.

Official charity point | 3

Visit the charity hut of the Hungarian Interchurch Aid. With each donation you can make a real change!

Christmas Post| 4

Would you like to send your season’s greetings to your loved? Come and see us!

Magyar Posta, 145 years old this year, is at your service in its special Chrstmas Post Office in Vörösmarty Square.

Magyar Posta will donate all proceeds from the sale of postcards in Vörösmarty Square to Hungarian Interchurch Aid.