2014 Christmas Markets in Prague
Christmas is on it’s way - despite the mild weather. A big hint are the shopping malls, already draped in glittery decor since the end of October! So with that come Prague’s famous Christmas markets, always beginning rather early in Prague 2 - the Christmas Markets in Náměstí Míru are always the first to open - they officially start Nov 20! And for the ultimate treat, on December 5th head there or to Old Town Square after sunset to witness the Mikulas Tradition. You’ll find a particularly spectacular trio of St Mikulas, Devil and Angel working the square and offering sweets to children who have been well behaved over the year or that sing a song to them.
Following is a list of the more popular Christmas Market spots along with their opening times.
Staroměstské Náměstí / Old Town’s Square, Prague 1
Nov 29 to January 1
These main markets are comparable to the markets in many European cities and tourists now flock here to experience this magical time. Stalls are brimming with Christmas foods,
ornaments, mistletoe, candles, handmade gifts and a stage with carols and children’s performances. They also have live domestic animal petting zoo, a nativity scene carved from wood and craft workshops for kids. Bookmark Saturday,
Nov 29 from 17:00 to 18:00 to witness the official lighting of Prague’s Christmas Tree
(a xxx metre high xxx from xxxx). This is also a prime location to witness and interact with beautifully costumed Mikulaš Trios strolling the streets on the night of December 5.
Václavské Náměstí / Wencesla’s Square, Prague 1
November 29 to January 12
Up the road from the main action in Staroměstské Náměstí are similar products without the crowds.
Ice Skate for Free in Ovocný Trh (behind the Estates Theatre), Prague 1
Don’t forget to visit
the temporary ice rink in Ovocný Trh, this is where you can ice skate for free! A small fee is charged for skate rental which goes to charity. The Skate rink opens December 5 to January 6 from 10.00 to 22.00.
Náměstí Míru, Prague 2
November 20 to December 24
Always the first to open, these intimate markets are in front of the beautiful church in Náměstí Míru, surrounded by the trees and gardens in this square. This the spot to see one of the most spectacular Mikulas trios that walk the streets of Prague. They turn up in elegant eighteenth century costumes dressed as St Mikulas, Devil & Angel on the evening of December 5
Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, Prague 3
November 23 to December 24
These markets have the usual fare and requisite svařák plus a musical Christmas Tree.
On Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays the popular Farmers Markets triple the size of the market and you’ll find an even greater range of gifts and
speciality food items.
The Farmers Markets also plan a New Years Eve celebration at the square on 31 December.
Arkády Pankrác, Prague 4
December 5 to December 23
In front of one of Prague’s biggest shopping centres, the markets will feature christmas treats, ornaments and gifts plus a famers market. From now till 23 December inside the shopping centre and on the ground floor between 11.00 and 19.00 you can get a free photo of your children with one of Santa’s reindeers taken by a professional photographer.
Anděl, Prague 5
November 30 to December 23
Kind of a busy spot here as it’s right where two tram stops and the metro converge, plus the huge shopping mall Nový Smíchov is at full capacity at this time of year. There is a musical program on most days in December at 15.30 to 18.30 as well as a nativity scene and Christmas Tree.
Especially for kids at the Andel Christmas market: Every year there is a carousel with live ponies which our boys love. One ride costs 50czk and lasts around 8 min. They also have a little train. It is right next to the outdoor Christmas Markets.
Vítězném náměstí, Prague 6
November 28 to December 20
At Kulaťák they combine their Christmas markets with the regular farmers markets (like at JZP). Markets will feature a great Christmas atmosphere, christmas gifts, trees, ornaments, fresh fish, crafts, mulled wine and a music program.
1st Advent Market - 28 - 29.11, 2nd Advent Market - 6 - 7.12, 3rd Advent market - 13 - 14.12, 4th Advent Market - 19 - 20.12. Fridays - 13:00 19:00 and Saturdays - 8:00 to 14:00.
Holešovice Exhibition Grounds, Prague 7
December 5 to December 7
The Christmas Markets are outside the exhibition grounds in Holešovice and will coincide with a Ceramics and Handicrafts Fair inside the exhibition building, the fair also features Christmas dancing and singing performances for children.
