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Prague Christmas Markets » 30th November 2024 - 6th January 2025
The Prague Christmas Markets are open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. A 'winter wonderland' awaits visitors. Soak up the festive atmosphere, listen to Christmas music, and browse the stalls for hand-crafted goods, hearty food and local drinks - photos |
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| | In addition, smaller and local Christmas markets are held in other parts of the city:
Small Christmas markets (city centre):
• Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky).
25th November 2024 to 24th December 2024. Opening hours are daily 10:00-20:00.
• Na Kampě Square (Na Kampě) by Charles Bridge in Lesser Town.
29th November 2024 to 01st January 2025. Opening hours are daily 10:00-20:00.
• Havel's Market (Havelské tržiště) in between Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
The only permanent market in the city centre adopts a festive feel.
From late November to early January. Opening hours are daily 06:00-18:30.
Local Christmas markets (near the city centre and aimed at Czech people, but everyone is welcome):
• Peace Square (Náměstí Míru) - 15 minutes walk from Wenceslas Square.
20th November 2024 to 24th December 2024. Opening hours are daily 10:00-20:00.
• Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) - 15 minutes walk from Wenceslas Square.
26th November 2024 to 24th December 2024. Opening hours are daily 10:00-19:00. | | | | What are the Prague Christmas Markets?
Christmas markets (Vánoční trhy) are a key ingredient of the festive magic in Czechia, and the Prague markets are the most impressive in the country. They light up the city, bringing locals and visitors together in a true 'winter wonderland' setting. | | 
Christmas Market stall | |
The Prague Christmas Markets consist of brightly decorated wooden huts, stocked with local handicrafts and traditional Christmas treats.
Among the wares on offer on the stalls are handmade ceramics, jewellery, glassware, embroidered lace, wooden toys, nativity scenes, candles, Christmas tree ornaments, handcrafted blankets and tablecloths, winter hats and gloves, and puppets and dolls dressed in traditional costume.
While visitors should find some nice souvenirs to take home with them, to enhance their own decorations or to use as Christmas gifts, the markets are about more than shopping. |
| | | All manner of hearty Czech cuisine and local drinks are available to sample, much of it prepared and cooked in front of you. | | 
Food at the Christmas Markets | |
The food on offer includes: hams roasted on spits (šunka); terribly unhealthy but wonderfully tasty barbecued sausages (klobása); flatbread topped with garlic, cheese and ketchup (langoš); chips (hranolky); smoked meat dumplings (knedlíky plněné uzeným masem); sweet dumplings (sladké knedlíky); pancakes and crêpes (palačinky); various local cheeses; and roasted chestnuts.
Czech Christmas fish soup (rybí polévka) is cooked in huge cauldrons. Over 1,500 kilograms of carp, vegetables, cream and brandy go into making the soup each year.
There are lots of cakes and sweets on the stalls too, such as spicy gingerbread (perníčky) and chimney cake (trdelník), a hot sweet pastry. |
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For drinks, you can sample famous Czech beers like Pilsner Urquell, Budvar and Staropramen (brewed in Prague). There is also cider and even a Champagne and sparkling wine stall.
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Trdelník baking |
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Alternatively, opt for a hot drink: mulled wine (svařák or svařené víno); hot mead or honey wine (medovina); hot apple (jablíčko); punch (punč); hot chocolate (horká čokoláda); or grog - hot water, rum, lemon and sugar.
Outdoor Christmas shopping is so much nicer with a cup of mulled wine or a cold beer in hand!
Trdelník is made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, baked on an open fire, then topped with a sugar and walnut mix. It is delicious on its own, but you can also order it with chocolate spread inside, and/or filled with ice-cream. |
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| A word of warning to parents: once a child has tasted trdelník, there is no going back - its comforting, sweet addictive nature means you will be pestered endlessly for another hit! |
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Eco Markets |
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Chopping firewood | |
There is an emphasis on sourcing local produce and materials to lower the carbon footprint of the markets, and to support regional businesses.
Products sold on the stalls have mostly been made or grown in Czechia or the surrounding Central European countries.
Trees are felled in Czechia to make the wooden ornaments.
Glass, metals and textiles used to craft handmade wares are produced in nearby towns and villages.
Food and drink ingredients are sourced in Czechia: the Christmas fish soup is made with carp from Czech rivers and lakes, and the vegetables are grown on local farms; Czech meat is used in the sausages and hamburgers; the hams are from Czech pigs; the beer is exclusively Czech (of course!); and the red wine in the svařák is made from Moravian grapes. |
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Drinks are served in recycled cups made of rPET or in returnable cups - look out for the "Cup Collectors" strapped to the side of rubbish bins or return them to the "Cup Return Hut".
Plates, cutlery and straws are made of recycled materials or are biodegradable. |
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Christmas Trees
The most impressive sight of all is the mighty 22m Christmas tree at the Old Town Square. It is felled in the Liberec region of Czechia before being transported to Prague by lorry. | | 
Old Town Square Christmas tree | |
The tree is dressed with giant Christmas stars and red and gold baubles, and is draped in a blaze of 110,000 LED lights. It is a spectacular sight set against the dark Gothic skyline.
A tree lighting ceremony accompanied by rousing classical music occurs daily at: 16:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, 20:30, 21:30. The musical piece this year 'Vltava' by Czech composer Bedřich Smetana.
Wenceslas Square, meanwhile, has a 15m tree from the Hradec Králové region of Czechia. |
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DESIGN of the Prague Christmas Markets | | 
Old Town Square Xmas market | |
The design of the Prague Christmas Markets is inspired by snowy typical Czech village scenes combined with the traditional Christmas colours.
The wooden huts are adorned with red or white roofs; decorations are coloured vibrant red, green, gold and white; there is a lot of green foliage; and bright warm white lights illuminate everything from the trees and Observation Bridge to giant wired angels and forest animals. |
| | CHRISTMAS MUSIC | CHRISTMAS CAROLS
On a stage at the Old Town Square, musicians, dance troupes and folk groups dressed in traditional costumes perform short routines every day from 4pm (sometimes earlier) to 7pm. | | 
Music at the Old Town Square | |
The programme features a variety of performances, with an emphasis on Christmas music and festive dance routines.
Most performers are from Czechia, although some hail from elsewhere in Central Europe, and even further afield.
But what is Christmas without carols? School choirs make several appearances, with children dressed in traditional costumes travelling from all over the country to perform.
Music from the stage is relayed via speakers throughout the market, enhancing the festive feel for all visitors. |
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| Wenceslas Square has a stage too, putting on its own Christmas themed performances, but on a smaller scale. Here, performers appear Thursday to Sunday, from 4pm to 6pm. | |
Other Attractions
Both the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets have large nativity scenes built from wood and straw, depicting Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and the Three Kings. | | 
Ice rink at Wenceslas Square | |
Children's workshops are held at the Old Town Square every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00-15:00, either on the stage or in a wooden children's activities hut.
Helpers teach children to make Czech Christmas decorations.
An open-air ice rink at Wenceslas Square enhances the festive winter atmosphere. Skaters of all levels are welcome. Skates are available for hire at the rink.
(view a list of ice rinks in Prague - December events) |
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| Also at Wenceslas Square, a blacksmith demonstrates the traditional craft of metal working. | |
Photo Opportunities | | 
Observation Bridge, Old Town | |
The Observation Bridge (free to enter) at the Old Town Square is a terrific place from which to take photos of the Christmas Markets. Climb the steps to the platform and take in the view.
For a higher vantage point, climb the Old Town Hall Tower (entrance fee applies). From the top, enjoy magnificent views over the Old Town Square and as far away as Prague Castle.
Street level photography is of course another option. Amongst the market stalls, you can take vivid, close up shots of the colourful wares, and of the food and drink being prepared. |
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Weather in December in Prague
The weather in December in Prague is highly changeable.
The average temperature is -1°C (30°F), but it can deviate dramatically in either direction.
There are bright and sunny, relatively warm periods when temperatures rise to 10°C (50°F). Equally, there can be heavy bouts of snow that last several days or weeks, when temperatures drop to -10°C (25°F) or even as low as -15°C (5°F).
Clothes to Wear
For sightseeing, entertainment and dining, most places in Prague welcome visitors dressed in casual attire. This also applies to classical concerts in churches.
However, visitors should dress for the occasion when attending a performance at one of the opera houses or grand concert halls, or when dining in high-end restaurants. | | 
Wenceslas Square Xmas market | |
As protection against the elements, bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves. Many visitors pack thermals or base layers too!
If you get caught out by the weather, there are shops that can help: department stores such as Marks & Spencer, shoe shops like Bata, and specialist outdoor clothing and footwear shops such as Rock Point.
Hats and gloves can also be purchased from market stalls and souvenir shops.
Prague is a wonderful city to explore on foot, so wear comfortable walking shoes or boots during the day. |
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MONEY at the markets
Cash: The majority of stall holders at the Christmas markets prefer payment in cash. All stalls accept payment in Czech Crowns. A limited number will also take Euros.
Cashless Payments: Pay by Mobile (via Google Pay and Apple Pay) and credit cards (including contactless cards) are accepted at a growing number of market stalls, but not all.
Find out more:
Czech currency and money exchange in Prague. | |
Where to Stay in Prague
The district of Prague 1 is the best place to stay in Prague. This is the city centre and it is where most of the sightseeing, entertainment and nightlife is located.
Prague 1 is also where the Christmas Markets are held. | | 
Hotels in Prague 1 | |
Prague 1 is compact and highly pedestrianised, and is itself split into several areas.
The two most popular areas to stay within Prague 1 are the Old Town, which has the Old Town Square at its heart, and the New Town, which has
Wenceslas Square at its heart.
The third most popular area is the Lesser Town. This lies across the river from the Old Town, and can be easily reached from it by strolling across Charles Bridge.
All areas of Prague 1 are within easy walking distance of each other. |
| | By staying in Prague 1, whenever you fancy dropping in to the Christmas Markets, you can leave your hotel and be in the midst of the action in minutes.
Browse the stalls, soak up the atmosphere, grab a drink and a hot snack, then when you're ready to freshen up it's just a short walk back to base.
And in Prague 1, the sights, tourist attractions, museums, theatres, concert halls, restaurants and shops will all be nearby. | |
Sightseeing AT CHRISTMAS |
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| Sightseeing in Prague is a wondrous experience all year round, with magnificent squares and cobbled back streets to explore, and awe-inspiring monuments to visit. Behind it all is a dramatic history waiting to be discovered. |
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See the sights in Prague | |
The festive atmosphere lends the city an even greater charm than usual, so be sure to allow enough time in your itinerary simply to wander and explore, and to stop off along the way to sample the local hospitality - there are many warm and welcoming pubs, bars and cafés in Prague.
Having said this, we do advise booking at least one Prague tour. There are fascinating historical tales wrapped up in the monuments, which only an expert guide can reveal. A professional local guide truly can bring the city to life for you.
The sights and attractions are open every day of the Christmas season except Christmas Eve. |
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River Cruises At Christmas
The Vltava River flows through the heart of the city and many famous sights line its banks. This makes river cruises an ideal way to experience the unique ambience of Prague.
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Christmas River Cruises | |
A boat trip is also the easiest way to see the sights: just sit back and relax with a drink, and take it all in!
Throughout December, all boats are heated and have Christmas decorations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience no matter the weather: river cruises at Christmas.
From river cruises to walking tours to bus tours, there are so many ways to uncover the wonder of Prague this Christmas. |
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Entertainment in Prague
There is entertainment galore on offer throughout the time of the Christmas markets, including traditional Czech nights and Medieval feasts, a wide range of Christmas concerts, and festive ballet and opera performances.
Classical Concerts
We particularly recommend attending a classical concert. Performances are staged in grand concert halls, ornate opera houses and theatres, Baroque palaces and ancient churches. All the concerts are magical at this time of year.
Churches host the most wondrous Christmas concerts, such as: St. Nicholas, Tyn, St. Martin in the Wall and St. Giles in the Old Town; St. Clements, St. Salvator and St. Francis at Charles Bridge;
and St. George's Basilica at Prague Castle. | |
 Municipal House: Smetana Hall | |
Concerts in the Mirror Chapel at the Klementinum are also special; the historic building and talented musicians who perform combine to ensure a highly atmospheric event.
In terms of large spectacular concerts, Municipal House and Rudolfinum are the grandest concert halls in Prague. Their festive performances never fail to impress.
The best concerts in Prague always sell out at Christmas, so we advise booking tickets in advance: |
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• December Concerts
• January Concerts | |
Opera
The opera and ballet season is in full swing at Christmas, with spectacular productions staged at the three Prague opera houses: Prague State Opera, Estates Theatre and National Theatre. | |
 La bohème: Prague State Opera | |
As it is the holiday season, Puccini's popular opera La bohème, which is set on Christmas Eve, is playing at the Prague State Opera (25,28 December 2024; 03 January 2025). Always delightful.
Other productions in December and January include Madama Butterfly (Rossini), Tosca (Puccini), Turandot (Puccini), Hansel and Gretel (Humperdinck), Il Barbiere Di Siviglia (Rossini), The Devil and Kate (Dvořák), The Bartered Bride (Smetana), Carmen (Bizet), The Cunning Little Vixen (Janáček) and La traviata (Verdi). |
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• December Opera
• January Opera | |
 Nutcracker at Broadway Theatre | |
Ballet
Festive productions are a prominent feature of the repertoire at all Prague theatres, and Tchaikovsky's ever-popular ballet The Nutcracker is staged at Broadway Theatre.
Tickets are still available for the following dates:
24,25,27,30 December 2024;
01 January 2025
Listings & Tickets |
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View all ballet performances in the festive season:
• December Ballet
• January Ballet | |
Black Light Theatre
If you are seeking a typically Czech experience, black light theatres in Prague put on shows that are highly visual. They can be enjoyed by all ages and nationalities:
• December Theatre
• January Theatre
| | TRADITIONAL Czech night & Medieval TAVERN
For the best in local hospitality, consider the Traditional Czech Night and the Medieval Tavern. Both are 'all-inclusive' events, well suited to a cold winter's night. | |
other Christmas events
December Christmas Events | January Christmas Events | |
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Public transport runs a good service every day throughout the time of the Christmas markets, with only minor alterations to the schedule on 24th and 31st December, and 1st January. |
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Prague Public Transport |
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Old Town Square Christmas markets
Metro station: Staroměstská (line A), Můstek (lines A & B), Namesti Republiky (line B)
Tram stop: Staroměstská (trams 1,2,13,17,18,25).
Wenceslas Square Christmas markets
Metro station: Muzeum (lines A & C), Můstek (lines A & B)
Tram stop: Václavské namesti (trams 3,5,6,9,14,24,25).
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View the latest travel information for Prague:
Travel around Prague by public transport
Travel to Prague.
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WHAT'S On at Christmas (24th-26th December) in Prague
For information on spending Christmas in Prague:
• 24th December: Christmas Eve in Prague
• 24th-26th December: Christmas Planner
WHAT'S On over New Year's Eve (31st December) in Prague
For information on the New Year's Eve celebrations:
• 31st December: New Year's Eve
• 31st December: New Year's Eve Planner.
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More Information
Find out what's open throughout December: Christmas opening hours.
For an introduction to the city: Prague tourism information.
For practical information, including advice on currency exchange: Prague tourist information.
For an easy way to visit Prague, the Prague Package includes a hotel, Prague airport transfers, sightseeing and entertainment. |
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 CHRISTMAS 2024
KEY DATES | |
XMAS MARKETS
Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square
30 Nov-06 Jan
Daily 10:00-22:00 | |
SMALL MARKETS
Republic Square
25 Nov-24 Dec
Daily 10:00-20:00
Na Kampě Square
29 Nov-01 Jan
Daily 10:00-20:00
Havel's Market
25 Nov-06 Jan
Daily 10:00-20:00
Peace Square
20 Nov-24 Dec
Daily 10:00-20:00
Tyl Square
26 Nov-24 Dec
Daily 10:00-19:00 | |
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TREE LIGHTING
Old Town Square
30 Nov-06 Jan
Daily 16:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, 20:30, 21:30 | |
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LAMP LIGHTING
Charles Bridge
01-23 Dec
Daily 16:10-16:30 | |
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ICE RINKS
Wenceslas Square
01 Dec-16 Feb
Daily 09:00-22:0
Na Frantisku, Old Town
15 Nov-28 Feb
Daily 08:00-19:00/22:00
Tower Park:
Žižkov
01 Dec-28 Feb
Mon-Fri: 15:00-20:00; Sat-Sun: 09:00-20:00
Letná Park
16 Nov-23 Feb
Daily 09:00-22:00 | |
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MIKULAS DAY
Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square
05 Dec
16:00-19:00 | |
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XMAS EVE
24 Dec 2024
-16:00 Christmas Mass for children at various churches
-16:30 Christmas Mass at Tyn Church
-21:00 Open-air Christmas Mass at Old Town Square
-24:00 Midnight Mass at Strahov & other churches | |
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XMAS PLANNER
What's open at Christmas: restaurants, entertainment & sightseeing
24-26 Dec 2024 | |
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NEW YEAR'S EVE
Festivities & Fireworks
31 Dec 2024 | |
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THREE KINGS
Charles Bridge
03 Jan 2025
15:30-16:45 | |
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