24 December is the „big day”’
This year some 58pc of Hungarians plan to spend a total of HUF 25,000 to HUF 50,000 on Christmas gifts, Erste said on Thursday based on a national representative survey.
Respondents typically spend a similar amount on gifts for children and adults, usually buying gifts worth between HUF 5,000 and HUF 20,000 per person.
The vast majority cover their purchases from their monthly income or savings, but 76pc of people spend a little more than they had planned.
Around 47pc of respondents plan to buy sweets and other food products, 45pc toys and 41pc clothes.
Although gift shopping has already begun in earnest, the vast majority of Hungarian families exchange gifts on the evening of December 24.
According to tradition, Christmas trees are decorated in homes on this day, and people usually spend the evening with their immediate family, exchanging gifts and enjoying a festive dinner.
December 25 is also a day for visiting relatives, while December 26 is more informal, with people going out more, meeting friends and colleagues, and participating in Christmas events.
