Some 289,000 people from 116 countries cast their votes for their favorite Christmas market in Europe. Budapest proved to be the most popular, ahead of Vienna, and Gdansk. 

The Advent Feast at the Basilica was already very popular among voters last year, coming in second behind the Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia.

“In addition to being the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, the Advent Feast at the Basilica deserves the title of Best Christmas market with the spirit of Christmas but also the title of Best eco-friendly Christmas market,” European Best Destinations says.

The website highlighted the ice rink in front of the Basilica, mulled wine, traditional Hungarian cuisine, and the biggest 3D light show in Europe as some of the most attractive features of the Christmas market.

When choosing the vendors, the most important requirement is that they have to offer high-quality and unique products. Contemporary artists sell their treasures in the fairytale-like cabins, thus renewing the artisan traditions.

The gastronomic selection is similarly unique: everybody can find delicious bites, not to mention that the organisers even thought of people with special dietary needs; you can pair your hot beverage with vegan, diabetic or gluten-free meals.

You can expect a wide variety of programmes from artisan workshops, through children’s games, and a free ice-rink, to funny flashmobs, dances and further surprises.

Also starting from the proper days of the Advent period a large stage-like Nativity scene will be set to commemorate the Holy Night when baby Jesus was born in the barn and the Three Kings of Orient paid him and Mary their visit.

Moreover, there’s a charity organisation active in the market. The Advent Feast has been collaborating with the Hungarian Interchurch Aid for seven years, and several activists, diplomats and celebrities help each year by baking gingerbread cookies, which they then sell in favour of those in need.