Prague Christmas Markets
November 2009 - Prague's Christmas markets are among the most famous in Europe. This year, they will open on November 29 with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, and will continue until January. Hundreds of wooden merchants' stalls have been set up on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, as well as in many other corners of the city.
The Christmas Market on Old Town Square
Admittedly, many cities throughout the world offer a fairy-tale atmosphere at Christmas, but in Prague the Christmas season is truly a dream. The charm of its cobblestone lanes, sometimes covered with snow, its illuminated streets, traditional markets, Czech Christmas traditions all make Christmas in Prague an unforgettable moment. At the town's Christmas markets, you will find small mementos such as Christmas decorations, little figurines, beautifully decorated gingerbreads, traditional Czech puppets or garnet jewelry.
You will certainly not be able to resist having a cup of mulled wine, a bag of freshly roasted chestnuts, a grilled sausage, or some of the traditional pastry with unpronouncable name of “trdlo”.
Under the illuminated Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square, you will find a living creche with a Baby Jesus and his faithful animals companions (donkey, goats, sheep), always an amusing attraction for children.
A large stage will feature performances for children or concerts by choral groups.
In addition to the large market on Old Town Square, smaller Christmas markets will be held in December on Náměstí Míru, Náměstí Republiky, the Holešovice fairgrounds (Výstaviště), and Kampa island.
