Advent in Pécs

vivienhelyes
Nov 14
2 min read

Pécs is special even in winter. Széchenyi Square is bathed in light, children's drawings dance on the walls of the mosque, and the smell of mulled wine and cinnamon mingles with Christmas carols in the air. This is Advent in Pécs – one of the city's most beloved traditions, which has been welcoming residents and visitors every winter for more than ten years.

A new but heartwarming tradition

The "Pécs Advent" series of events was launched in 2011 on the initiative of the city council and has since grown into one of the most magical Advent events in the country.

This year's 14th Advent Craft and Fairy Tale Market will welcome visitors to Széchenyi Square and the surrounding area between November 28 and December 24, 2025. In addition to the market filled with lights, music, and scents, the city is also preparing a number of special programs.

What awaits you during Advent in Pécs?

Advent Craft and Fairy Tale Market: local products, Christmas decorations, handmade delicacies
Light painting at the Dzsámi: a light show created from children's drawings, which comes to life every evening on the city's symbol
Candle lighting on Sundays: every weekend, a new flame is lit in the heart of the city – the last one is lit with the flame from Bethlehem
Music and stage programs: concerts, nativity plays, balcony concerts
Gastronomic experiences: mulled wine, Pécs wines, local culinary specialties
Advent Express to Zagreb: a special train that takes passengers to Zagreb's famous Advent market for a day

Interesting facts you may not have known:

The light painting on the Dzsámin is inspired by drawings by children from Pécs.
The flame from Bethlehem arrives in Pécs via Vienna, and is used to light the candles on the city's Advent wreath.
During Advent, a nativity procession can also be seen in the city – Mary and Joseph are "looking for accommodation" on the streets of Pécs.
Some hotels offer free sightseeing tours as part of their Advent packages – and the Fordan Hotel welcomes its guests with its own special offer.

Fordan Hotel – where the holiday season relaxes with you

At the Fordan Hotel, you are just a few minutes' walk from the hustle and bustle of the city's Advent celebrations, yet you can relax in peace and quiet at the end of the day.