A Christmas market is a street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. They were originated in Germany and now they are being held in many other countries.
The history of Christmas markets goes back to the late middle Ages in the German-speaking part of Europe, and in many parts of the former Holy Roman Empire that includes many eastern regions of France. The Prague Christmas Markets are part of this tradition.
The Christmas markets (Vánoční Trh) in the Czech Republic are festive and magical, full with tradition and color. The Prague Christmas Markets are the most impressive in the country, mostly the market at the Old Town Square. All together they bring light to the city setting a ‘fairy tale’ atmosphere in the city.
The Prague Christmas markets will be open this year every day from 02nd December 2017 to 06th January 2018, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The main markets are at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (5 minutes walk from each other). You will find smaller markets around the city including at the Republic Square, Kampa Island and at Prague Castle
Note: This year the Christmas market at Prague Castle starts on 24th November.
What can you find at the Prague Christmas Markets?
Mainly traditional Czech handcrafts like ceramics, jewellery, embroidered lace, wooden toys, candles, Christmas tree ornaments, marionettes (now part of UNESCO World Heritage catalogue), dolls dressed in traditional costumes, hats and gloves, basically everything you need for your Christmas presents.
But is not only about shopping. Partly the fun of the markets is the food! You can taste traditional Czech food and drinks. From savory and sweet crepes to delicious sausages called Klobasa. Ginger bread decorated with colorful icing that could be perfect for a Christmas present or to eat in the moment, they are delicious. There is a great variety of hot drinks; outdoor Christmas shopping is so much better with a cup of mulled wine (svařené víno or svařák) in our hands!
It will be hard to miss the main star of your visit, just at the hearth of the Old Town Square you will find the Christmas tree transported from the forests of Central Bohemia. The tree is draped in a blaze of lights and it is switched on daily around 5:30pm. Is the most spectacular sight set against the gothic skyline.
During the day you will find at the main stage orchestras performing Christmas carols, Children and Youth choruses and dance groups performing some of the rich Czech Folklore. You will find maps of the market with all the information of the products you can din there and the program for everyday.
Prague’s city centre is compact and the Prague Christmas markets are free to enter, which is ideal for pedestrians.
The festive atmosphere in Prague throughout the period of the Christmas markets is simply wonderful!
You can enjoy this advent atmosphere during the Prague landmark Tour… Join us!