Debrecen4U
November 11, 2025
Debrecen Advent Programs and Events – 2025
Debrecen’s Advent season transforms the city into a true festive wonderland, where lights, music, and tradition come together to create unforgettable moments. The heart of the city glows with warmth as families, friends, and visitors stroll through beautifully decorated squares, savoring the anticipation of Christmas. Across the city center, a rich program awaits: enchanting concerts that fill the air with holiday melodies, interactive family activities that bring joy to children and adults alike, spiritual displays that invite reflection and togetherness, and winter attractions that capture the playful spirit of the season.
Explore the festive programs below and immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of Debrecen’s Advent!
Ice Rink Opening (November 22)
In accordance with the traditions of the Debrecen Advent, the city’s most intimate program series will begin in 2025 with the opening of the ice rink in front of the Great Church.
The ice rink’s eagerly awaited opening date for many is November 22, 9:00 a.m., and then the six-week event will continue with the first Advent weekend.
Advent Fair Opening Weekend (November 28 – November 30)
Launch of the Christmas market with festive stalls and lights, artisan stalls, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and handmade gifts.
November 28
Advent Fair Opening (Nov 28, 4:00 p.m., Kossuth Square)
The festive market begins with artisan stalls, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and handmade gifts.
LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association’s dance show, (Nov 28, 4:00–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair)
During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
Triolett Advent Show (Nov 28, 5:00–5:40 p.m., Kossuth Square)
A lively musical performance to set the Advent spirit with the Triolett Trio bringing nostalgic favorites to life with their own acoustic arrangements of Hungarian classics by Charlie, Zorán and hits from ABBA, the Beatles, and more. At the Debrecen Advent, they will perform a festive concert filled with Christmas songs that capture the warm, magical spirit of the season.
Péter Kitti & Horváth Marcell (Nov 28, 6:00–6:40 p.m., Kossuth Square)
Popular Hungarian performers bring contemporary and seasonal music.
The Kitti & Marci Acoustic Duo, featuring Kitti Péter will perform the most beautiful Christmas songs in unique acoustic arrangements. Blending elements of pop and jazz, their music brings a fresh and heartfelt sound to holiday classics, with enchanting the audience with festive melodies and the magical spirit of the season.
November 29
Children’s Tree Decorating (Nov 29, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Dósa Nádor Square) Preschoolers and toddlers decorate Christmas trees, showcasing creativity and community spirit.
Sonivius Vappae Band (Nov 29, 4:00 p.m.–4:50 p.m., Advent Fair)
Medieval-inspired ensemble performing energetic, captivating music often called “refined noise.”
Sonivius Vappae brings medieval energy to life with drums, bagpipes, flutes, and cisterns. Despite their playful name, their goal is to delight audiences with uplifting, soul‑stirring music. Having performed across the world — most recently with great success in Cappadocia, Turkey — they now return to share their joy with Debrecen.
LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association’s dance show, (Nov 29, 4:00–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair)
During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
Bokros Band (Nov 29, 5:00–5:40 p.m., Kossuth Square)
The Bokros Ensemble’s “Betlehem, Betlehem” Christmas show brings together hurdy‑gurdies, “koboz” (traditional plucked string instrument), and vocals in a joyful Advent program. Blending Hungarian winter folk traditions with historic melodies, the concert features rare and familiar Christmas songs, celebrating the season through shared music.
Lituus Brass Ensemble (Nov 29, 5:00–5:40 p.m., Dósa Nádor Square)
Traditional brass ensemble creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
The five‑member brass ensemble is a returning highlight of the Debrecen Advent. Their wide repertoire spans classical, film, and light music, while their Advent program features well‑known Christmas melodies from different nations, helping the audience embrace the season’s intimate, festive spirit.
Fruzsi Erdős’ Christmas Concert (Nov 29, 6:00 p.m., Kossuth Square)
Singer-songwriter performance with heartfelt Advent themes.
Fruzsi Erdős, award‑winning singer, folk vocalist, and lecturer at the University of Debrecen with her acoustic band, will present a festive Christmas program at the Debrecen Advent.
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Nov 29, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
A meditative program combining light installations and music for peaceful reflection.
November 30
Candle Lighting Traditional Procession (Nov. 30, 4:30–5:00 p.m.)
From the City Hall to the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen. A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association’s dance show, ( Nov. 30 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Advent Fair)
During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
“Light of the World” Weekend Candle Lighting, (5:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
Participants include bishops of the historic churches, local leaders, opera singers Kuczmog Klaudia and Antóni Norbert, drama students from Ady Gymnasium, the Lautitia Choir Family, and the children’s choir of Svetits Catholic School.
DNE Folk-Symphonic 75th Jubilee Gala (Nov 30, 6:00 p.m., Kölcsey Center, Grand Hall)
A gala blending classical and folk music to celebrate 75 years of tradition.
The Debrecen Folk Ensemble (DNE)celebrates 75 years as a leading force in Hungarian folk dance with a gala at the Kölcsey Center. Past and present dancers, along with longtime partner bands, will revive memorable choreographies and music.
Christmas Concert Advent Stage (6.30 p.m.– 7.10 p.m.– Kossuth Square)
Special Advent concert blending folk and festive melodies, with professional musicians Beján Miklós, Korponai‑Kiss Noémi & Szabó Dániel
Second Advent Weekend (December 5 – December 7)
December 5
Fruzsina Kovácsovics’s Christmas Show with Santa (Dec 5, 5:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m., Kossuth Square)
Interactive children’s concert featuring Santa Claus, with Award‑winning children’s singer and kindergarten teacher Kovácsovics Fruzsina who invites families to a joyful, interactive concert where kids can sing, play, and welcome Santa together.
Christmas Singers (Dec 5, 6:15 p.m.–6:45 p.m., Kossuth Square)
Formed in 2022, the Christmas Singers — Bálint Ferenc, Bejan Miklós, Korponai‑Kiss Noémi, and Márta Szabolcsné Lak Ágnes — bring festive music from Renaissance to modern styles.
Waiting for Santa (Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m. –5:00 p.m., Advent Cottage – Dósa Nádor Square)
Santa is coming in person this year to hear children’s Christmas wishes! Family event where children can meet Santa in a festive setting. The Advent Cottage at Dósa Nádor Square will be filled with magic, lights, and festive atmosphere.
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Dec. 5, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
Choir performance of beloved holiday classics, a meditative program combining light installations and music for a peaceful Advent atmosphere.
December 6
Debreceni Egyetem Light Music Institute Band (Dec. 6, 5:00 p.m. –5:40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Talented students of the University of Debrecen’s Institute of Light Music present a special Advent concert, featuring Hungarian and English Christmas songs in fresh, creative arrangements, an evening of warmth, harmony, and unforgettable music.”
Dénes Pál Concert (Dec. 6, 6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
One of the country’s most beloved performers, will enchant audiences with timeless Christmas classics.
East Brass (Dec. 6, 4:00 p.m. – 4:40 p.m., Dósa Nádor Square)
The four‑member brass ensemble, made up of professional musicians, promises unforgettable concerts at the Debrecen Advent Fair on December 6 and 20, featuring festive arrangements of well‑known Christmas melodies.
Waiting for Santa (Dec. 6, 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. & 3:30–6:00 p.m., Advent Cottage – Dósa Nádor Square)
Santa is coming in person this year to hear children’s Christmas wishes! Family event where children can meet Santa in a festive setting. The Advent Cottage at Dósa Nádor Square will be filled with magic, lights, and festive atmosphere.
Zsolt Horváth, Barrel Organ Player (Dec. 6, 2:00–6:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area)
Traditional street music with festive charm.
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec. 6, 4:00–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area)
During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sp
Ugly Sweater Run (Dec 6, 10:00 a.m., Baltazár Dezső Square)
A playful community run in quirky Christmas sweaters. Debrecen hosts the Ugly Sweater Run for the fifth time, where charity meets joy and the love of movement. Participants will run 3.5 km or 1 km through the beautiful Advent Fair in the city center.
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Dec. 5, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
Choir performance of beloved holiday classics, a meditative program combining light installations and music for a peaceful Advent atmosphere.
Gryllus Vilmos – “Singing Santa” (Dec 6, 4:00 p.m.,Kölcsey Center Ballroom)
One of Debrecen’s most beloved children’s programs this Advent: Vilmos Gryllus welcomes families to the Kölcsey Center with his ‘Musical Santa’ show. The concert offers shared singing, winter holiday songs, and a truly heartwarming atmosphere for young and old alike—a magical encounter with the joys of winter and the charm of singing together.
Horváth Zsolt, the Füredi Barrel Organ Player (Dec 6-7, 2.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m., Advent Fair)
Traditional street music with festive charm.
December 7
Candle Lighting Traditional Procession (Dec 7, 4:30 p.m, – 5:00 p.m.)
From the City Hall to the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen. A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
“Light of the World” Weekend Candle Lighting, (Dec 7, 5:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
Concert of Gyula Éliás ( Dec 7, 6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
“Gyula Éliás Jr., a key figure in Hungarian pop and funk, is celebrated for his versatility as a singer, performer, and composer. His program brings warmth and intimacy to the Advent season.”
Lituus Brass Ensemble (Dec 7, 4:00–4:40 p.m., Dósa Nádor Square)
The five‑member brass ensemble is a returning guest at Debrecen Advent. Their wide repertoire spans classical music, film scores, and light music, while their Advent program features well‑known Christmas melodies from different nations—creating a festive atmosphere that helps audiences embrace the spirit of joyful anticipation.
Waiting for Santa (Dec. 7, 11.00 a.m.-2.30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Advent Cottage – Dósa Nádor Square)
Santa is coming in person this year to hear children’s Christmas wishes! Family event where children can meet Santa in a festive setting. The Advent Cottage at Dósa Nádor Square will be filled with magic, lights, and festive atmosphere.
Zsolt Horváth , Barrel Organ Player (Dec. 7, 2:00–6:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) – Traditional street music with festive charm.
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec. 7, 4:00–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
Adventissimo (Dec 7, 6:00 p.m., Kölcsey Center – Grand Hall)
Advent Concert of the Debrecen Garrison Band
December 8
Gospel Christmas
Gospel Christmas returns to Debrecen! On December 8, the Marquinn Middleton & Miracle Chorale from Dallas will light up the Kölcsey Center with 30 singers at 7.00 p.m.
December 10
Valcer Dance Studio Christmas Ceremony (Dec 11, 6:00 p.m., Kölcsey Center)
The Valcer Dance Studio Christmas Ceremony is one of the year’s most memorable evenings, where the joy of dance meets the intimate spirit of Advent. From the youngest students to seasoned professionals, every dancer takes the stage to celebrate the magic of Christmas with dazzling Latin and standard dances, majorette and show‑dance performances and heartfelt festive choreographies.
Audiences will enjoy highlights from 2025 alongside brand‑new Christmas creations — a night that promises unforgettable memories.
Third Advent Weekend (December 12 – December 14)
December 12
“Bérletszünet” (Subscription Break) –(Dec12. 5:00 p.m. –5:40 p.m. Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Performance of the Orchestra of the Csokonai National Theater. This time, the orchestra is preparing a Christmas repertoire for the Debrecen audience. Their program will feature American and Hungarian hits, multi‑voiced choral pieces, and folk song arrangements.
Christmas Concert of Andrea Losonczki, Marcell Horváth and and Boldizsár Kulcsár (6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m. Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
December 13
Ice Flower Carnival Parade (Dec 13, 5:00 p.m. –5:45 p.m. → 6:00–6:40 p.m. Szent Anna Street – Piac Street – Kossuth Square)
Debrecen transforms into a shimmering winter tale as the Ice Flower Carnival fills the city with music, laughter, and the scent of Christmas.
Orpheum Madams (Dec 13 6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
The band, Orpheum Madams, evoke the golden age of swing and jazz with modern elegance.
Zsolt Horváth , Barrel Organ Player (Dec. 13, 2:00–6:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) – Traditional street music with festive charm.
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec. 13,, 4:00–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
Disco on Ice ( Dec 13, 8:30 p.m. –10:00 p.m. Ice Rink)
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Dec. 13, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
A meditative program combining light installations and music for a peaceful Advent atmosphere.
December 14
Candle Lighting Traditional Procession (Dec 14, 4:30 p.m, – 5:00 p.m.)
From the City Hall to the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen. A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
“Light of the World” Weekend Candle Lighting, (5:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
Concert of Adri Nagy ( Dec 14, 6:00 p.m. –6:40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Zsolt Horváth , Barrel Organ Player (Dec. 14, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) – Traditional street music with festive charm.
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec. 14, 5:00–6:00 p.m., Advent Fair Area) During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
“Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit, enter my heart…” (Dec 14, 6:00 p.m.(Kölcsey Center – Grand Hall)
Festive performance by the Debreceni Hajdú Dance Ensemble
Fourth Advent Weekend (December 12 – December 14)
December 19
Concert of Szironta Ensemble (Dec 19, 5:00 p.m. –5:40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Founded in 2004, this renowned Hungarian bell ensemble plays on a rare collection of over 100 handbells, handchimes, and cymbella — instruments that allow them to perform everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary music, film scores, and beloved Christmas carols. Their mission is to popularize bell music in Hungary and Central Europe, while sharing their unique performances worldwide — from the United States and Singapore to Japan and Colombia.
Concert of Flóra Kováts Quartet (Dec 19, 6:00 p.m. –6:40 p.m, Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Four musicians met at a Budapest jam session, each bringing their own style — jazz, Latin, manouche, and Brazilian music — united by improvisation and a love of jazz. The ensemble will enchant the Debrecen Advent Fair with Christmas jazz and French songs
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Dec 19, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
A meditative program combining light installations and music for a peaceful Advent atmosphere.
December 20
Christmas Concert of Debrecen Dixieland Jazz Band (Dec 20, 5:00 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
Since 1984, the Debrecen Dixieland Jazz Band has delighted audiences at home and abroad, from the Dresden Dixieland Festival to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Their artistry was honored with the Audience Award at France’s Megève Jazz Contest in 2018.
Concert of Orsi Kozma (Dec 20., 6:00 p.m.,Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
With more than 25 years of artistry, five acclaimed studio albums, and numerous awards, Orsi Kozma stands as one of the most distinctive voices in vocal jazz and light music. Joined by pianist Gábor Cseke, she will bring warmth, charm, and festive spirit to the Debrecen Advent Fair with a magical Christmas concert.
East Brass (Dec 20, 4:00 p.m. – 4:40 p.m., Dósa Nádor Square)
The four‑member brass ensemble, made up of professional musicians, promises unforgettable concerts at the Debrecen Advent Fair on December 6 and 20, featuring festive arrangements of well‑known Christmas melodies.
DuoTrio Street Theatre (Dec 20, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Advent Fair, 5:40 p.m. – 5.00 p.m. Dósa nádor Square)
The DuoTrio Street Theatre creates improvised performances inspired by audience stories, with active participation from the public. Their interactive stilt‑walking show will appear several times at the Debrecen Advent.
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec 20, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair ) During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
“Advent Silence – Light and Music Experience” (Dec 20, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Old Town Hall Courtyard)
A meditative program combining light installations and music for peaceful reflection
December 21
LESZ DANCE Dance & Sports Association (Dec 21, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Advent Fair ) During the Advent weekends, the fair’s visitors can meet the elves and Santa’s helpers of the LESZ DANCE Dance and Sports Association, as well as one of the children’s favorite fairy‑tale characters, Elsa.
Candle Lighting Traditional Procession (Dec 21, 4:30 p.m, – 5:00 p.m.)
From the City Hall to the Reformed Great Church of Debrecen. A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
“Light of the World” Weekend Candle Lighting, (Dec 21, 5:00 p.m. –5.45 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
A communal ceremony with representatives of the churches, city leaders, artists, and civil organizations.
Concert of Alíz Nyári (Dec 21, 6:00 p.m. – 6.40 p.m., Advent Stage – Kossuth Square)
On the final Sunday of the Debrecen Advent series, the enchanting Hungarian singer Alíz Nyári will bring the most beloved Christmas songs to the city. Her performance will evoke the warmth and intimacy of festive moments at home, filling the evening with love and true holiday spirit. Accompanied by the outstanding pianist József Csikós, she promises a magical musical experience.
Debrecen Advent offers a more than a month-long celebration with various programs, concerts, family activities, spiritual displays, winter sports, and culinary delights. The city becomes a true festive wonderland, blending tradition, joy, and community spirit.
For more information about the programs and events please visit Debreceni Advent.
Date: November 28 – December 20
Location: across Debrecen city centre
Source:debreceniadvent.hu | Photo credit: Facebook Papp László
