Christmas 2026
Christmas in Zalaegerszeg
The markets, the lights and the parties — and when each is worth it.
15 days to go16 Nov – 26 Dec · 15 ideas
- 8 for families
- 2 free
Don't miss
Christmas Lights Switch-On and Grand Opening of Egerszegi Advent
Egerszegi Advent Christmas Market
Göcseji Malacságok (Göcsej Pig Fun)
Saturday 21 November
Göcseji Malacságok (Göcsej Pig Fun)
A traditional event at the Göcseji Skanzen showcasing winter peasant life, focusing on traditional pig slaughtering customs, shared work, conversations, songs, and humorous stories. Features demonstrations, a cooking competition, and folk music.
Family
Friday 27 November
Szigeti Bence | Diótörő Gyertyafényben (Nutcracker by Candlelight)
A magical festive journey into the world of The Nutcracker, illuminated by thousands of candles, featuring the most beautiful Christmas classics.
Saturday 28 November
Christmas Lights Switch-On and Grand Opening of Egerszegi Advent
The official opening ceremony of the Egerszegi Advent Christmas market, featuring the ceremonial switch-on of the city's Christmas lights.
FamilyFree
Charles Dickens: Karácsonyi ének (A Christmas Carol musical)
A family musical production of Charles Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol', combining music, humor, and captivating visuals. A heartwarming tale for children and adults alike.
Family
Tuesday 1 December
FELYSA – Csendes fény | Adventi nyitókoncert (Silent Light | Advent Opening Concert)
An Advent opening concert.
Thursday 10 December
Hans Zimmer Film Music Concert by Candlelight
A concert featuring the most significant, Oscar-winning melodies of the film world, performed by candlelight in the stunning acoustics of the Városi Hangverseny- és Kiállítóterem.
Saturday 12 December
Wolfpack Makett Verseny és Modell Börze (Model Competition and Model Exchange)
A model competition and exchange event, a great opportunity before Christmas to get models, accessories, and paints for year-end leisure time. Welcomes modelers of all types (railway, car, boat models, etc.).
Sunday 13 December
Caramel.Zongora. (Caramel.Piano.)
A piano concert by the Hungarian artist Caramel.
Thursday 24 December
Christmas Eve – Public Holiday (Rest Day)
Christmas Eve is a public holiday in Hungary. Shops and public transport typically shut down early, around 14:00-16:00, as locals prepare for traditional Christmas dinner. It's a bridge day, meaning workers may have to work on Saturday, December 12, to compensate.
Friday 25 December
Christmas Day – Public Holiday
Christmas Day is a public holiday in Hungary. Most supermarkets, malls, and shops will be closed, and public transport will operate on a holiday schedule.
Saturday 26 December
Second Day of Christmas (St. Stephen's Day) – Public Holiday
The second day of Christmas is a public holiday in Hungary. Most supermarkets, malls, and shops will be closed, and public transport will operate on a holiday schedule.
All season
Egerszegi Advent Christmas Market
Zalaegerszeg's annual Advent market featuring artisan products, gift ideas, festive food and drinks, stage performances, and charity initiatives. The market takes place in a beautifully decorated downtown area, including an ice rink, carousel, and illuminated selfie spots. More detailed program information will be announced closer to the date.
FamilyFreeSource: Programturizmus.hu
Outdoor Ice Rink at Dísz tér
A 30x15 meter outdoor ice rink in the city center, part of the Egerszegi Advent. Operating hours: Monday-Thursday 16:00-20:00, Friday 16:00-21:00, Saturday-Sunday 15:00-20:00. Closed on December 24, 25, and January 1. Open December 26-30 from 15:00-20:00. Includes ice disco events on select Fridays.
Family
Public Skating at Zalaegerszegi Jégaréna
Public skating sessions available at the indoor ice arena. Specific times for November-December 2026 should be checked closer to the date of visit.
Family
Traditional Hungarian Christmas Customs
Visitors should be aware of traditional Hungarian Christmas customs including the Advent wreath, Christmas Eve fasting, and the 'Betlehemezés' (nativity play), which is a historical custom.
Times and prices change, so check with the organiser before you go. Updated 31 Oct