by Zsofia from Budapest asks Santa about Christmas village sets, learns about the Danube River, and hears about Hungary’s Angyal and fish soup tradition
Dear Santa, my name is Zsofia and I am nine years old. I live in Budapest, Hungary, where my nagymama says our city is actually two older cities, Buda and Pest, joined together by beautiful old bridges.
Dear Zsofia, your nagymama is entirely right, and I always enjoy flying that particular bridge-lined stretch of the river.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, do you like Christmas village sets, the little miniature houses people arrange under the tree? My grandfather adds one new building every single year.
I love them, Zsofia, and your grandfather’s slow, patient collection sounds wonderful. A tiny village growing one careful piece at a time is a lovely way to build a tradition.
My second question is about our river. My teacher says the Danube flows right through the middle of our city, splitting it in two. Is that true?
It is, Zsofia. The Danube runs directly between Buda and Pest, and flying low over its water at night, the Chain Bridge and Parliament building lit up gold, is one of the most beautiful sights on my entire European route.
My third question is about the Angyal and fish soup. My family eats fish soup on Christmas Eve, and my parents say an angel brings our gifts instead of you exactly. Is that true?
It is a cherished Hungarian tradition, Zsofia. Many families believe the Angyal, a Christmas angel, brings the gifts and even decorates the tree while children wait in another room, and halászlé, a rich fish soup, is a beloved centerpiece of the Christmas Eve meal. The Angyal and I work very closely together, and I have always admired the beautiful ceremony of that particular evening.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Zsofia Nagy
Budapest, Hungary
P.S. Do you get to taste the fish soup too?
Occasionally, Zsofia, if the Angyal saves me a small bowl.
