Christmas in Hungary Christmas in Hungary Christmas in Hungary is celebrated with traditions similar to those found in other Central European countries ("See:" Christmas worldwide) as well as customs unique to the region. The Christmas and gift-giving season starts relatively early compared to other cultures, with the Santa-like figure, or Hungarian version of Saint Nicholas, Mikulás (or Szent Miklós) traditionally visiting the homes of Hungarian children on the night of 5 December, on the eve of Saint Nicholas Feast Day, 6 December. Although the role of gift-giver on Christmas Day itself is assigned to the Christ Child, on the night before St. Nicholas
Saint Nicholas in Glory maidens saved by Nicholas according to the legend. Below him are St. John the Baptist (patron of one of the donors) and St. Lucy, whose tooth is alleged to have been preserved in the church as a holy relic. The lower part is occupied by a dark landscape, featuring, amongst other details, a sea harbor and a port struck by a storm. The style of this section shows the influence of the Danube school. The small scene of St. George killing the dragon was added to fulfill one of the donor's wishes. Saint Nicholas in Glory Saint Nicholas in Glory