Szeged Christmas Market now open
The Szeged Christmas Market, also known as Szeged Christmas Weeks, officially kicked off over the weekend on November 29. On the first afternoon, three lucky children had the chance to switch on the festive lights in the Szeged city center, launching a series of programs that will run for nearly four weeks.
The celebrations began at 4 p.m. on Friday with the highly anticipated switching on of Szeged’s festive lights. Each year, a contest organized by Rádió 88 determines who gets to press the big red button at Dugonics Square, illuminating the city center's Christmas decorations, including the Christmas tree at Klauzál Square and the iconic deer in the Dugonics Square fountain. At the same time as the festive lights were turned on, the light trams also started running.
Downtown streets came alive with an opening parade featuring the well-known stilt walkers, who delighted the crowd. The spectacle, a firm favorite among both kids and adults, set a joyful tone for the festivities ahead.
Saturday's highlight was the stunning light painting projected onto the iconic Szeged Dóm. The cathedral's facade was transformed into a luminous canvas, dazzling onlookers with colorful Christmas designs and attracting massive crowds to the market.
On Sunday, the city embraced the spirit of Advent with a heartfelt ceremony marking the lighting of the first candle on the city’s Advent wreath. At 5 p.m., Szeged Mayor László Botka and Bishop László Kiss-Rigó lit the candle, symbolizing the beginning of the countdown to Christmas. Residents and visitors gathered to share this meaningful moment of community and tradition.
The Szeged Christmas Market will continue to host a variety of events in the coming weeks, including artisan vendors, food stalls offering seasonal treats, and cultural performances. With its charming setting and diverse offerings, the market remains a highlight of the holiday season in Szeged and the wider region.
Photos: Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
