Many European cities are known for their Christmas markets, and Hungary is no exception! Across Hungary, many cities are preparing for the Christmas season with festive markets selling traditional handcrafted goods and food. At some of the Christmas markets I've explored, I've seen beautiful handmade ceramics, tasted cinnamon chimney cakes, and watched Christmas tree lightings. These Christmas markets illustrate the unique ways that Hungary celebrates the Christmas holiday.
Christmas markets are popular throughout Europe, originating from medieval "winter markets" where people purchased essential supplies before the onset of the cold winter season. Today, these traditional "winter markets" celebrate the Christmas holiday season. In Hungary, the Christmas markets share Hungarian food and handcrafted goods from local restaurants and artisans.
One of the best foods I tried at the Budapest market was the kürtőskalács (chimney cake). At the market, the vendors cooked them in a traditional way over a coal grill, which gave the dough a slightly smoky flavor. There are a few different flavors, like pistachio, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate. My personal favorite is the cinnamon!
