Discover Christmas Markets in Prague
Right up until January 3rd, 2016, Prague will be flooded with holiday cheer and Christmas Markets open to locals and tourists all over the city. These markets are an old tradition originating from Dresden, Germany during the late Middle Ages. They're held outside on the main streets or big city squares. And as many come together to celebrate the holidays, the setting couldn't be more beautiful. With the markets come fun Christmas events in Prague with music, plays, and shows in the open air along with dancing, food, and beverages of all kinds. And don't forget to pick up a few seasonal gifts for your loved ones back home. Find out more on the Christmas markets of Prague:
The most significant Christmas market, perhaps, is set up in Old Town Square. It's the oldest and biggest in the city where a great large Christmas tree is decorated right in the middle of it all.
If you're having trouble finding the perfect Prague souvenir, look no further than all the shopping opportunities throughout the markets. The temporary stands have every holiday knick-knack imaginable like handmade Christmas tree ornaments, nutcrackers, hand-knit outdoor clothing, and Bohemian crystal. And, of course, the traditional Czech souvenirs will be available at every corner during the holiday season.
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to eat traditional Czech food and be merry?
The Germans thought of the concept of the Christmas market, however, the foods are typically Czech. Eat your way through one of these markets and you're sure to be bursting with delight by the time you head back home for a nap. Even the fussiest eaters will certainly find they can't resist the spectacular selection of local delicacies:
So if you're looking for a special way to spend the holidays in Prague, get into the holiday spirit and visit the Christmas markets! Prague is already a magical city on its own, but add a little bit of snow and a million Christmas lights and it's simply hard to resist.
Aleksandra Koplik
Market Locations
Priit Tammets via Flickr
There are a number of markets located around the city, so be sure to check out at least a couple of them during your stay in Prague. Prague is hosting five Christmas Markets in various locations around the city this year:
- Peace Square (Namesti Miru): November 20th - December 24th
- Republic Square (Namesti Respubliky): November 25th - December 24th
- Outside Holesovice Exhibition Centre (Vystaviste Holesovice, Prague 7): December 4th, 5th & 6th
- Outside Prague Castle: small market, usually works the week before Christmas
- Old Town Square (Staromestske Namesti): November 28th - January 3rd
- Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske Namesti): November 28th - January 3rd
The most significant Christmas market, perhaps, is set up in Old Town Square. It's the oldest and biggest in the city where a great large Christmas tree is decorated right in the middle of it all.
Fun for the Whole Family
via Wikimedia
There are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy during their visit to the markets:
- The Nativity Scene, as always, is on display with baby Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
- A small petting zoo of baby animals is a perfect distraction from the cold for parents and children alike
- Outdoor performances, music and dancing are guaranteed. If you take a five-minute walk form Old Town to New Town, you will reach the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market where there is always some sort of entertainment going on (shown below).
Shopping Ideas
Krokodyl via Wikimedia Commons
If you're having trouble finding the perfect Prague souvenir, look no further than all the shopping opportunities throughout the markets. The temporary stands have every holiday knick-knack imaginable like handmade Christmas tree ornaments, nutcrackers, hand-knit outdoor clothing, and Bohemian crystal. And, of course, the traditional Czech souvenirs will be available at every corner during the holiday season.
On the Menu
Trdelnik by elPadawan via Flickr
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to eat traditional Czech food and be merry?
The Germans thought of the concept of the Christmas market, however, the foods are typically Czech. Eat your way through one of these markets and you're sure to be bursting with delight by the time you head back home for a nap. Even the fussiest eaters will certainly find they can't resist the spectacular selection of local delicacies:
- Klobasa - delicious smoked sausages
- Prague Ham - slow roasted ham on charcoal
- Trdelnik - a "chimney" dessert that consists of dough, sugar, nuts, and cinnamon. Sometimes served with jam or Nutella
- Czech beer - a staple in a Czech diet
- Medovina - warm honey wine that can be flavoured with any kind of syrup (the cherry flavour is to die for!)
- Hot wine - similar to Gluhwein
- Potatoes - bacon sauerkraut potatoes are especially good
- Roasted Chestnuts
- Gingerbread - a classic Christmas treat the whole family can enjoy
So if you're looking for a special way to spend the holidays in Prague, get into the holiday spirit and visit the Christmas markets! Prague is already a magical city on its own, but add a little bit of snow and a million Christmas lights and it's simply hard to resist.
Aleksandra Koplik
