Marking the 25th anniversary of the founding of the expat media portal as well as the British Bonfire Night tradition, the gala this year also adopted a “Merry Mikulás” theme for its Dec. 6 celebration, welcoming around 200 guests from Budapest’s Hungarian and international communities to the Grand Ballroom of the Corinthia Hotel Budapest.

“Bonfire Night is one of our most cherished British traditions, and tonight it takes on even greater meaning as we all unite in support of such worthy causes,” the “new” U.K. Ambassador Justin McKenzie Smith told guests via a video message. “The bonfire is a beacon for the enduring values of community and generosity. Thank you for making this evening so memorable.”

Highlights included the now-traditional virtual bonfire and fireworks display, charity auctions, a party band, a dazzling dance performance, and even a “Sexy Santa Show” from entertainers Vibe Budapest.

The international menu featured luxury canapés, sushi variations, Wagyu beef, Lebanese lamb, Vietnamese rolls, Malaysian pies, U.S. burgers, Indian curries, British treats, and Hungarian chocolate.

Free-flowing drinks included sublime sparkling Sauska, G&Ts, Single-Malt Whiskies, Bloody Marys, a top wine selection from Bock and other friendly vintners, plus Viwa vitamin-water.

Returning charities like the Red Cross and UNICEF were back in the spotlight to raise awareness and funds for their inspiring work in Hungary.

The sparkling welcome drinks led to bubbling conversations during the meet-and-greet reception as guests networked and socialized. Once they were gathered in the ballroom, master of ceremonies Hans Peterson and TV star Zsuzsa Demcsák officially welcomed everyone and introduced the video message from the British ambassador.

Lighting the Fire

Georgina Szilagyi, the country director of British Council Hungary, ceremoniously “lit” the virtual fire, displayed on the huge LED wall courtesy of returning event partner Special Effects.

Antónia Mészáros, the director in Hungary of UNICEF, drew a parallel between the virtual bonfire and the evening’s cause, saying that all the charities involved strive to “brighten the lives of children in need.” She also thanked XpatLoop’s publisher, Stephen Linfitt, “one of our dedicated UNICEF Champions and the mastermind behind so many unforgettable events!”

A new charity featured this year was Heartfelt English Charity, an international volunteering initiative in Hungary that offers free English-language lessons to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Its president, Ágota Székely, said, “This event gave us a valuable opportunity to raise awareness and connect with people who care about making a difference. The generosity and positive energy of the evening were truly inspirational.”

Linda Bereczki, deputy director at Red Cross Budapest, was equally grateful. “We deeply appreciate guests’ openness to learning more about our mission at Red Cross and their readiness to extend support,” she said.

Peterson and Demcsák led the evening’s Live Charity Auction, which, among a range of valuable prizes, boasted something very special, an artwork by Sir Anthony Hopkins featuring a stray Hungarian cat from the Kolibri Art Studio.

The Just Show Band played pop and rock hits after the Live Auction, before DJ Woods rounded off the night by filling the ballroom with top tunes to which guests danced the night through.

Video and photos from the event can be found on the XpatLoop.com website.

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of January 30, 2026.