The illuminated heart of Újpest

Every December the Townhall of Újpest turns into a glowing postcard. The building is already charming on an ordinary Tuesday but once the Christmas lights are switched on it becomes the undisputed diva of Újpest Központ. It shines so brightly that even people who pretend not to care about festive decorations suddenly stop and take photos.

A short walk through history

The Townhall was completed in 1890 when Újpest was still a fast growing suburb of Budapest. The architect Gyula Sándy later added his touch to the district with other public buildings but the Townhall remained the proud symbol of local independence. It survived political changes and urban transformations and still manages to look elegant even when surrounded by modern blocks and busy traffic.

The building has seen everything from council meetings to wedding parties. It has also seen more than a century of Christmas seasons which probably explains why it wears its festive lights with such confidence.

Christmas atmosphere in Újpest Központ

The square around Újpest Központ becomes a small winter playground every year. There is a free ice skating rink where children glide with enthusiasm and adults glide with fear. There are free concerts next to the centre which attract cheerful crowds and the occasional confused commuter who only wanted to catch the metro.

The whole area smells of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. It is warm and lively even when the temperature is not.

The not so silent night

Of course all this joy comes with a tiny side effect. The inhabitants of the neighbouring buildings get the full package whether they asked for it or not. They enjoy the lights but they also enjoy the music until late. The concerts are lovely when you are standing in the crowd. They are slightly less lovely when you are trying to sleep on the fourth floor with your window facing the square.

Merry Christmas to everyone who celebrate it. May your lights be bright and your nights reasonably quiet.