Han Srey Leak from Cambodia shares her first Christmas experience in Europe: „As a Cambodian international student, Christmas was never a holiday I celebrated back home. However, last year marked my first experience of this festive season in Europe, and it has become a cherished memory that I will carry with me forever. When December rolled in, I was excited yet unsure of what to expect. My friends and I decided to hang out at the enchanting Christmas markets. The moment I stepped into the market, I was greeted by a magical atmosphere that felt like stepping into a fairytale. The streets were adorned with twinkling lights, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of baked goods and the warmth of mulled wine. One of my favourite spots was Fashion Street at Deák Ferenc tér, where the decorations were particularly stunning. Beautifully lit trees lined the streets, and festive music played softly in the background, creating a joyful ambience. I remember standing there, marvelling at the vibrant displays, feeling a sense of belonging that I hadn’t anticipated. It was a moment of connection, not just with the holiday spirit but with my new friends and the culture surrounding me. The highlight of my experience was trying traditional holiday foods that I had never encountered before. Hot chocolate became my winter warm-up of choice. Rich, creamy, and topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, it was the perfect treat as I wandered through the stalls. I also discovered mulled wine, a delightful blend of spices and warmth that seemed to wrap me in a cosy hug. Sharing these experiences with my friends made them even more special, as we laughed and exchanged stories, bridging the gap between our different cultures. Though I don’t celebrate Christmas in the traditional sense, I found joy in the simple acts of kindness and the spirit of giving that permeated the season. Living in Hungary during Christmas allowed me to appreciate the beauty of a holiday that symbolizes togetherness, love, and joy. I learned that it’s not just about the celebrations but also about the connections we make with those around us. This experience opened my heart to new traditions and ways of celebrating, and I found myself reflecting on the value of community and friendship. As I look forward to this year’s festivities, I cherish the memories of my first Christmas in Hungary. It taught me that even if you don’t celebrate a holiday in the traditional sense, you can still find magic in the experiences shared with others. I hope to create more beautiful memories this year, continuing to embrace the holiday spirit alongside my friends.”

Lai Anqi from China reflects on her first authentic Hungarian Christmas: „Last winter, I had the privilege of experiencing an authentic Hungarian Christmas, which remains a warm and unforgettable memory. I was invited to a Hungarian friend’s family home to decorate the Christmas tree together. It was my first time personally decorating a tree, from selecting ornaments to hanging lights, and every step was filled with joy. Later, I tasted traditional Hungarian dishes prepared by the family: the delicious babgulyás and the festive must-have töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage). The rich flavours left a deep impression on me, and I could feel the warmth and care of the Hungarian family. Additionally, they prepared homemade forralt bor (mulled wine) especially for me, a drink with fruity and spicy aromas that was entirely new to me.

In the evening, my friends and I cooked together, chatted, and had a great time. After dinner, we visited a nearby square to take pictures and joined a festive Christmas party. The whole city seemed immersed in the joy of the season. I was particularly impressed by the Christmas market and the decorations on Fashion Street. The market’s handmade crafts and traditional food stalls, combined with the lights and music filling the streets, perfectly captured the Christmas spirit and completely enchanted me.

By contrast, while we also celebrate Christmas in China, it is more about adopting cultural elements and creating a festive atmosphere. We might decorate our homes or gather with friends, but it doesn’t have the same deep meaning as it does for Hungarians. In Hungary, for the first time, I felt the genuine anticipation and heartfelt joy that people have for Christmas. Everywhere—on the streets, in shops, and schools—gradually fills with Christmas decorations as December approaches. People greet each other with holiday wishes, and it seems like the entire city participates in a grand celebration. This sense of unity and happiness reminded me of Chinese New Year, which is also the most eagerly awaited time of the year for us.

For me, every December is a special joy when I can spend this magical holiday in Hungary. I love every detail of Christmas here—from the bustling markets to the cozy family atmosphere, from the cheerful melodies to the dazzling lights. This was not only a cultural experience but also gave me a deeper understanding of the significance of the holiday in a nation’s culture. It has made me cherish my time here even more.”

Meray Al Khawajah from Jordan emphasizes the importance of family during Christmas: „Christmas is a time to reflect on the birth of Christ and celebrate His love and joy with family. I usually travel back to my home country to spend the holidays with my loved ones, but last year my parents came to visit me in Hungary. It was a special experience to share the season with them here, surrounded by the warmth and beauty of Christmas traditions.”

Lisani Nadeeshani from Sri Lanka shares her perspective on the universal values of Christmas: „Although I am not a Christian, Christmas has always held a special place in my heart. Since childhood, I’ve embraced the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree in my home, which brought so much warmth and joy to the season. For me, Christmas is not just about religious practices; it’s about the universal values it represents—generosity, love, family togetherness, and the simple yet profound joy of giving and receiving. These values transcend boundaries, making Christmas a time that everyone can celebrate and appreciate regardless of their faith.

Being far away from my family has made me miss those moments of togetherness we shared during the holidays. However, here in Hungary, I have been fortunate to find a second family, a close-knit circle of amazing friends who have filled that void with love and laughter. Last year, we celebrated Christmas in Miskolc, which was truly magical. The party was filled with unforgettable moments, from the delicious food to the heartfelt conversations and the bonds we strengthened.

These past two years in Hungary have given me some of the most beautiful Christmas memories of my life. They’ve shown me that the spirit of Christmas is universal, and its warmth can be felt anywhere in the world.”

The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship brings together a diverse group of students who find joy and warmth in Hungary’s Christmas celebrations. Whether it’s through the enchanting markets, traditional foods, or the sense of community, these experiences create lasting memories. We wish everyone a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!