In Hungary, Christmas Day, known as Karácsony, is one of the most beloved holidays and holds strong religious significance to the majority Roman Catholic and Calvinist population. Celebrations begin on the evening of December 24th and continue through December 26th. Hungarian Christmas traditions are a unique blend of European customs and local folk culture.
On Christmas Eve, Hungarian households buzz with preparations and festive spirit. The celebration starts with the decorating of the Christmas tree, an important family tradition. Children are often told that angels or the Christ Child (Jézuska) brought the tree. Afterward, families gather around the tree and sing traditional Christmas carols and exchange gifts. The Christmas feast is highly anticipated and typically includes traditional dishes such as fish soup, stuffed cabbage, and beigli (poppy seed or walnut roll).
Christmas Day and Boxing Day, both statutory holidays, are spent relaxing and visiting with family and friends. Besides the festive meals, people attend church services, watch festive programs on television, play board games, and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The Christmas season in Hungary bears a strong emphasis on family values, religion, and traditions, a reflection of the nation's culture and history. The holiday season concludes with Epiphany, on January 6th, when families say goodbye to the holiday spirit and look forward to the New Year.