Szeged, the city of sunshine takes on its festive lights at 4 pm on 24 November and enchants visitors until 24 December. As the Christmas lights are on, the magic world of a fairy tale comes to life. In 2018 the Christmas Holiday Weeks will again be held in Széchenyi tér, Klauzál tér and Dóm tér. Every day different programs await children and adults, offering relaxation and preparation for the coming holiday. What is new this year? The 38-meter high giant ferris wheel with 144 people per rotation, its beautiful view to the festive cavalcade, and the nearly 500 square meter open air pop-up ice rink in Dóm tér.
The artisan Christmas fair is held in Dóm tér. In front of the Votive Church, there is the giant advent wreath of the city, whose candles are lit by the citizens on Sundays. The Fabulous Castle houses the Bogyó and Babóca (popular Hungarian children’s book) exhibition, and also here children can participate in different activities or watch tales. This year we can get lost again in the biggest straw labyrinth of South Hungary and can enjoy the Ice Sculpture Show. Széchenyi tér is full with the well-known wooden eateries offering mulled wine and different specialties. Just like in the past years, we can count with a real gastronomic event. For Christmas gift inspiration see the artisan products. The 6-meter tall twinkling deer is waiting for those who wish to take a selfie, in Dugonics tér.
Guided Advent tours are held on 1, 8 and 15 December, that help participants discover the illuminated palaces of Szeged, while walking under the Christmas holiday lights and decorations, we can breathe in the scent of roasted chestnut and mulled wine. The guided tours end at the most beautiful square of Hungary, where you find yourself in the middle of the Dóm tér cavalcade.
With regard to the holiday atmosphere, Santa Claus will also visit Szeged in the performance of the Szeged Mini Theatre, on the board of the Hegyalja boat. Participating children and adults will get into a funny fairy tale, where following the performance children can meet Santa Claus in person, one by one and they can get their presents from him, all this cruising on Tisza. At the end of the boat trip, everybody will have the chance to take pictures with the actors.
