Advent in Óbuda: one of the capital’s most beloved Christmas markets is about to begin

In a few days, the festive lights will be switched on in Óbuda, opening the Advent Óbudan 2025 Christmas market. One of the capital’s most popular, completely free Advent events awaits visitors between November 28 and December 23, primarily in Fő tér and around Szentlélek tér. Opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 2pm to 9pm, Friday from 2pm to 10pm, Saturday from 10am to 10pm and Sunday from 10am to 9pm. The area can be approached from three directions, from Laktanya Street, Hídfő Street and Szentlélek Square.

The fair will once again offer a wide range of programs this year: starting from the first weekend, concerts, children’s programs, fire juggling shows and joint Advent candle lightings will be held every Saturday and Sunday. Children will be welcomed by a Santa Claus house, photo spots and free puppet shows, while one of the most popular elements among families remains the free ice rink, where skates can be rented on site.

In addition to classic fair dishes – such as paprika potatoes, Székely cabbage or fried sausage – the gastronomic offer includes modern dishes, desserts, kürtőskalács, bubble waffles and various types of hot drinks. The stands feature selected handicrafts, unique jewellery, natural cosmetics and souvenirs, and the area’s museums will also join the programme series with Advent guided tours and workshops.

Artisanal desserts and festive drinks at Janó’s counter

A special point of this year’s fair is once again the Janó Christmas Tree House located at Szentlélek Square, which awaits visitors with artisanal beignets, self-developed desserts and playful winter drinks. According to the owner of the tree house, János Babay, this period is the culmination of the year-long preparations, which is both a celebration and community building.

This year, we are paying special attention to serving the habits and needs of the older generation and the Z generation. Janó Christmas Tree House will be expanded, and more emphasis will be placed on comfort features. Budapest delivery via the Wolt system: everything from bagels to fatty bread to hot drinks can be ordered to your home. This year, Máté Koczka will also join the tree house team to ensure that innovative services operate even more efficiently and professionally throughout the event. Furthermore, every Saturday and Sunday, we can also meet Janó Karácsonyi Faháza‘s products, guests and services in the program Bolgod Karácsonyit.

“For me, Advent actually starts in the summer, because I save all my new recipes and ideas for this period,” said János Babay. “For me, the wooden house is not just a place to eat, but a meeting point. I love it when guests tell stories, ask questions, taste, and in the process, they really arrive at the holiday. My goal is for anyone who comes to us to feel that the scents, flavors, and stories together create the atmosphere of Advent in Óbuda.”

The centerpieces of the offering are Ádám Fazekas’ artisanal bagels, as well as “Janó-style” holiday desserts, which are based on family recipes, modern sponge cakes, jams, and chocolate. In addition, locally brewed hot chocolates, alcoholic and non-alcoholic variations, and drinks with humorous fantasy names – such as “Dementor’s Kiss,” “Angels’ Embrace,” and “Krampusz” – make the counter special. Homemade tea blends and holiday brandies are favorites among adults.

“I think one of the beauties of the fair is that everyone finds their own little world in it,” added János Babay. “For us, this world is built around bagels, hot chocolate, and stories. We talk to our guests every night, tell stories, and together we create the atmosphere that keeps them coming back for years. It’s more than just gastronomy: it’s a shared experience that makes a winter evening truly memorable.”