{"id":18074,"date":"2026-08-31T09:24:16","date_gmt":"2026-08-31T07:24:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-in-prague\/"},"modified":"2026-08-31T10:08:04","modified_gmt":"2026-08-31T08:08:04","slug":"christmas-in-prague","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/christmas-in-prague\/","title":{"rendered":"Weihnachten in Prag"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"pw-wrap\">\n<style> .pw-wrap{--pw-hero:#1d3b2f;--pw-t:#b3403a;--pw-dot:#ff9c8f;--pw-dotr:255,156,143;--pw-hl:#ffd9c4;font-family:Hind,\"Helvetica Neue\",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#13202c;line-height:1.62} .pw-wrap *{box-sizing:border-box} .pw-lbl{font-family:\"Roboto Condensed\",sans-serif;font-size:11.5px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.15em;text-transform:uppercase} .pw-hero{position:relative;margin:0 0 30px;overflow:hidden;isolation:isolate;background:var(--pw-hero)} .pw-hero img{width:100%;height:clamp(300px,42vw,440px);object-fit:cover;display:block} 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.pw-card:empty,.pw-evt:empty,.pw-mon:empty,.pw-seasons a:empty,.pw-cols a:empty,.pw-g4>a:empty,.pw-nav a:empty{display:none!important} @media (max-width:900px){.pw-hero .pw-h1{font-size:clamp(24px,4.6vw,34px)}.pw-hero p{font-size:15px}}@media (max-width:700px){.pw-hero{background:var(--pw-hero)}.pw-hero img{height:210px}.pw-hero:after{display:none}.pw-hero-in{position:static;padding:15px 15px 17px;display:block;background:var(--pw-hero)}.pw-hero-txt{max-width:none}.pw-hero .pw-h1{font-size:24px;line-height:1.14;text-shadow:none}.pw-hero p{font-size:14.5px;line-height:1.5;margin-top:8px;text-shadow:none;max-width:none}.pw-hero .pw-lbl{font-size:10.5px;letter-spacing:.12em}.pw-facts{width:100%;margin-top:14px;background:rgba(255,255,255,.08);border-color:rgba(255,255,255,.2)}.pw-facts div{flex:1 1 0;min-width:0;padding:8px 9px}.pw-facts .k{font-size:9px;letter-spacing:.09em}.pw-facts .v{font-size:14px;line-height:1.25}.pw-sec{margin-bottom:28px}.pw-head{margin-bottom:14px}.pw-head h2{font-size:21px}.pw-sub{font-size:14.5px;margin-bottom:14px}.pw-lead{font-size:15.5px}.pw-more{font-size:11.5px}.pw-evt{padding:13px 14px}.pw-evt .h{font-size:16px}.pw-card .h{font-size:16.5px}.pw-fx .big{font-size:19px}.pw-nav{margin-bottom:26px;padding-bottom:18px}} @media (max-width:380px){.pw-hero .pw-h1{font-size:22px}.pw-facts .v{font-size:13px}.pw-facts div{padding:7px 6px}} <\/style>\n<div class=\"pw-hero\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-15-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Decorated market stall and the Old Town Hall tower under snow in Prague\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-hero-in\">\n<div class=\"pw-hero-txt\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\"><span class=\"pw-dot\"><\/span> Holiday guide<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-h1\">Christmas in Prague<\/div>\n<p>Six weeks of markets on the squares, the tree on Old Town Square, carp in tubs on the pavement and a Christmas Eve that happens on the 24th. Everything from the first Advent Sunday to Three Kings Day.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-facts\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"k\">Season<\/div>\n<div class=\"v\">28 Nov &ndash; 6 Jan<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"k\">Markets<\/div>\n<div class=\"v\">10:00&ndash;22:00<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"k\">Czech Christmas<\/div>\n<div class=\"v\">24 December<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"k\">Entry<\/div>\n<div class=\"v\">Free<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-lead\">Prague does Christmas properly, and it does it differently from most of Europe. The markets open with the tree lighting at the end of November and run to Three Kings Day in January. The main event is not the 25th but the evening of the 24th, spent at home over carp and potato salad. There are tubs of live fish on street corners, a lamp-lighter who walks the Charles Bridge, and a baby Jesus rather than a Santa Claus bringing the presents.<\/p>\n<p class=\"pw-lead\">This page is the whole season in order: the dates, the markets worth walking to, what is actually eaten, where the music is, and the practical business of which days everything shuts. For the rest of the cold months &mdash; January, February, snow and ice rinks &mdash; see <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/winter-in-prague\/\">Winter in Prague<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-nav\"><a href=\"#pw-dates\">The Advent calendar<\/a><a href=\"#pw-markets\">The markets<\/a><a href=\"#pw-eve\">Christmas Eve<\/a><a href=\"#pw-food\">Food &amp; drink<\/a><a href=\"#pw-music\">Music &amp; churches<\/a><a href=\"#pw-kids\">With kids<\/a><a href=\"#pw-gifts\">Gifts &amp; shopping<\/a><a href=\"#pw-romance\">Two of you<\/a><a href=\"#pw-newyear\">New Year<\/a><a href=\"#pw-practical\">Practical<\/a><a href=\"#pw-faq\">FAQ<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-dates\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Calendar<\/div>\n<h2>The Advent calendar, date by date<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/christmas-in-prague\/\">All Christmas guides &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">Confirmed dates for the 2026&ndash;2027 season. Anything already past drops off this list automatically.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-scroll\">\n<div class=\"pw-evts\"><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-11-28\" data-e=\"2026-11-28\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/pragues-christmas-tree-from-forest-to-old-town-square\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">28 Nov<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Tree lighting<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">16:30 on Old Town Square. The official start of the season, and the most crowded hour of it.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Ceremony &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-11-28\" data-e=\"2027-01-06\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-markets-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">28 Nov &ndash; 6 Jan<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Christmas markets<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Old Town and Wenceslas Square, daily 10:00&ndash;22:00. Smaller squares run shorter seasons.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Markets &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-11-29\" data-e=\"2026-11-29\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/why-czechs-love-advent-markets-so-much\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">29 Nov<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">First Advent Sunday<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">The first of the four candles. Advent is taken seriously here, and it shapes the whole month.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Tradition &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-12-05\" data-e=\"2026-12-05\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/how-czechs-celebrate-saint-nicholas-day\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">5 Dec<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">St Nicholas evening<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Mikul&aacute;&scaron;, an angel and a devil walk the streets asking children whether they have been good.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Tradition &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-12-06\" data-e=\"2026-12-20\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/lamp-lighter-on-the-charles-bridge-a-magical-prague-advent-tradition\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">Advent evenings<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">The lamp-lighter<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">A man in a top hat lights the gas lamps on the Charles Bridge by hand, every Advent evening.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Tradition &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-12-24\" data-e=\"2026-12-24\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/how-prague-families-spend-christmas-eve\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">24 Dec<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">&Scaron;t&ecaron;dr&yacute; den<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Czech Christmas happens on the 24th, at home. Shops shut by early afternoon and the centre goes quiet.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Holiday &middot; Plan ahead<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-12-25\" data-e=\"2026-12-26\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-public-holidays-guide-for-tourists\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">25&ndash;26 Dec<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Christmas holidays<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Two public holidays. Markets reopen, most shops and many restaurants stay closed.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Holiday &middot; Closures<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2026-12-31\" data-e=\"2026-12-31\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-go-for-new-years-party-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">31 Dec<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">New Year&rsquo;s Eve<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Silvestr. Crowds on the bridges, private fireworks along the river, restaurants booked out months ahead.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Tradition &middot; Busy<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2027-01-01\" data-e=\"2027-01-01\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-new-year-traditions-you-might-not-expect\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">1 Jan<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">New Year&rsquo;s Day<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Public holiday, lentil soup for luck, and a city sleeping it off. Little is open before noon.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Holiday &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-evt\" data-b=\"2027-01-06\" data-e=\"2027-01-06\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/cultural-events-you-shouldnt-miss-before-christmas-ends\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"d\">6 Jan<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Three Kings Day<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">T&rcaron;&iacute; kr&aacute;lov&eacute; closes the season: carol singers, chalk over doorways, markets pack up.<\/div>\n<div class=\"m\">Tradition &middot; Free<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><script>(function(){var g=document.querySelectorAll(\".pw-evt\");if(!g.length)return;var n=new Date();n.setHours(0,0,0,0);var w=new Date(n.getTime()+7*864e5);var left=0;Array.prototype.forEach.call(g,function(el){var b=el.getAttribute(\"data-b\"),e=el.getAttribute(\"data-e\");if(!b)return;var bs=new Date(b+\"T00:00:00\"),be=new Date((e||b)+\"T23:59:59\");if(n>be){el.classList.add(\"past\");return;}left++;var len=(be-bs)\/864e5;var started=(n>=bs);if(started||(w>=bs&&20>=len)){el.classList.add(\"now\");var d=el.querySelector(\".d\");if(d&&!el.querySelector(\".badge\")){var sp=document.createElement(\"div\");sp.className=\"badge\";sp.textContent=(started?\"On now\":\"This week\");el.insertBefore(sp,d);}}});var s=document.getElementById(\"pw-datesub\");if(s&&left===0){s.innerHTML=\"This Christmas season is over. The dates below return at the end of November &mdash; the market guide carries the confirmed calendar each year.\";}})();<\/script><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-markets\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Markets<\/div>\n<h2>The markets, square by square<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-markets-prague\/\">The full markets guide &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">Two big markets on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, and a dozen smaller ones where the crowd is local and the stock is Czech. Entry is free everywhere; the difference is what you find on the stalls.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-g4\"><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-markets-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-12-768x512.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas market stalls on Old Town Square under snow\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Start here<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Prague Christmas markets: dates, hours, full guide<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Every market in the city, when it opens, what it costs and which ones locals actually use.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">The main guide<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/a-perfect-one-day-christmas-market-walk-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-6-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas market stalls in the Prague Old Town\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Route<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">A one-day market walk<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Six markets on foot in the right order, ending on the square with the tree at dusk.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Walking route<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/local-christmas-markets-for-handmade-crafts\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/prague-christmas-market-photos-2019-2020-andel-8669-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"The Christmas market at And&ecaron;l in Prague\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Local<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Markets for handmade crafts<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">The neighbourhood markets where the stock is Czech-made rather than imported.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Craft markets<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/hidden-christmas-corners-only-locals-know\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-13-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"A quiet Prague street in December\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Quiet<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Hidden Christmas corners<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Courtyards, cloisters and small squares that never make the guidebooks.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Off the route<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\" style=\"margin-top:13px\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>The tree and the lights<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/pragues-christmas-tree-from-forest-to-old-town-square\/\">The tree, from forest to square<small>How it is chosen, felled and driven in<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-christmas-lights-and-decorations-streets-in-prague\/\">Best streets for Christmas lights<small>Where the decorations earn the detour<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/fun-facts-about-this-years-decoration\/\">Facts about this year&rsquo;s decoration<small>The details nobody points out<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/lamp-lighter-on-the-charles-bridge-a-magical-prague-advent-tradition\/\">The Charles Bridge lamp-lighter<small>Gas lamps lit by hand, every Advent evening<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Planning the market days<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-in-december\/\">Prague in December<small>The month guide: weather, crowds, what is open<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/why-czechs-love-advent-markets-so-much\/\">Why Czechs love Advent markets<small>The four Sundays, and what each one means<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-easter-markets-vs-christmas-markets\/\">Christmas vs Easter markets<small>Which season suits which trip<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-stay-in-prague\/\">Where to stay in Prague<small>And what December prices look like<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-secIf you only understand one thing about Christmas here, make it this: the 24th is the day. Fasting until dinner, carp and potato salad in the evening, presents after the meal, and the baby Jesus &mdash; not Santa &mdash; leaving them under the tree.\" id=\"pw-eve\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">The 24th<\/div>\n<h2>Christmas Eve, the Czech way<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-g4\"><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/how-prague-families-spend-christmas-eve\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/prague-christmas-market-and-what-to-eat-3-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"The Christmas tree on Old Town Square\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">The day<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">How Prague families spend Christmas Eve<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Hour by hour, from the morning fast to the bell that says the presents have arrived.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Explainer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-story-behind-czech-christmas-carp\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/prague-christmas-market-and-what-to-eat-2-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Food stalls at a Prague Christmas market\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">The fish<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">The Czech Christmas carp<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Why there are tubs of live fish on the pavement every December, and what happens next.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Tradition<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-legend-of-baby-jesus-in-czech-christmas\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-14-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Prague Old Town decorated for Christmas\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Je&zcaron;&iacute;&scaron;ek<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">The legend of Je&zcaron;&iacute;&scaron;ek<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">The Czech gift-bringer nobody has ever seen &mdash; and how children are told about him.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Explainer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-nativity-scenes-small-details-with-big-meaning\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-9-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Prague Old Town on a December evening\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Bet l&eacute;my<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Czech nativity scenes<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Carved, painted and sometimes enormous. Where to see the good ones.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Craft<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\" style=\"margin-top:13px\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>The customs<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-christmas-dinner-and-traditions\/\">Czech Christmas dinner and traditions<small>The full run of superstitions and rules<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/from-carp-to-cookies-a-local-feast\/\">From carp to cookies<small>What is actually on the table<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-traditions-through-the-year\/\">Traditions through the year<small>Witches, whips and carp<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/how-czechs-celebrate-saint-nicholas-day\/\">St Nicholas Day, 5 December<small>The angel, the devil and the potato<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>If you are here on the 24th<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-eat-like-a-local-on-christmas-eve\/\">Where to eat on Christmas Eve<small>The short list of places that open<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-dinners-with-a-view-of-prague-castle\/\">Christmas dinner with a Castle view<small>Book weeks ahead, not days<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-public-holidays-guide-for-tourists\/\">What is closed, and when<small>The 24th, 25th, 26th and 1 January<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/cultural-events-you-shouldnt-miss-before-christmas-ends\/\">Before the season ends<small>The last week of December into 6 January<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-food\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Eat &amp; drink<\/div>\n<h2>What Christmas tastes like<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/what-to-eat-in-prague-guide\/\">Full food guide &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">Two separate menus run side by side in December: the market food you eat standing up in the cold, and the Christmas Eve dinner that happens indoors and follows rules.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-g4\"><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/traditional-czech-christmas-foods-you-must-try-at-prague-markets\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-4-768x512.jpg\" alt=\"Food stall at a Prague Christmas market\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Markets<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Christmas food at the markets<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">What to order at the stalls, what to skip, and roughly what it should cost.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Market food<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/traditional-czech-christmas-eve-meals\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pivnice-a-restaurace-malostranska-beseda1-1024x794.jpg\" alt=\"Traditional Czech pub interior\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">The 24th<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Traditional Christmas Eve meals<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Fish soup, fried carp, potato salad &mdash; and the vegetarian versions people actually cook now.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Dinner<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-find-the-best-mulled-wine-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-11-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Old Town Square under snow in December\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Sva&rcaron;&aacute;k<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">The best mulled wine in Prague<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Which stalls make it properly, and which just reheat it.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Drinks<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/vegan-and-vegetarian-christmas-options-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/the-eatery1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Food and drink in a Prague restaurant\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">No carp<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Vegan and vegetarian Christmas<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">A carp-heavy holiday has more options than you would expect.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Alternatives<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\" style=\"margin-top:13px\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>On the table<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/kapri-polevka-carp-soup\/\">Kap&rcaron;&iacute; pol&eacute;vka<small>Carp soup, the first course on the 24th<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/5-must-try-czech-christmas-foods-in-prague-2\/\">Five Czech Christmas foods<small>The short list, if you have one evening<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/trdelnik-chimney-cake\/\">Trdeln&iacute;k<small>Not Czech, sold everywhere, still warm in your hands<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/horka-cokolada-hot-chocolate\/\">Hork&aacute; &ccaron;okol&aacute;da<small>Czech hot chocolate, closer to a dessert<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>In the cup<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-tradition-behind-czech-svarak\/\">The tradition behind sva&rcaron;&aacute;k<small>Why it tastes the way it does here<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/mulled-wine-svarak-spiced-warm-wine\/\">Sva&rcaron;&aacute;k, the recipe<small>Make it at home when you get back<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-mead-medovina-sweet-honey-drink\/\">Medovina<small>Honey mead, the other cup on the counter<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-hot-chocolate-in-prague-during-winter\/\">Best hot chocolate in Prague<small>For when you have had enough wine<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-music\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Music<\/div>\n<h2>Concerts, choirs and churches<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/culture\/\">All culture &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">Advent is the busiest month of the Prague concert year. Churches that are locked the rest of the winter open for choral evenings, and the big halls run Christmas programmes from the first week of December.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Concerts and opera<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/top-classical-concerts-and-operas-this-christmas\/\">Classical concerts and operas<small>The Rudolfinum, the Estates Theatre and the churches<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-echoes-of-advent-a-definitive-guide-to-pragues-historic-choral-concerts\/\">Advent choral concerts<small>Where the acoustics are worth the cold pews<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-jazz-nights-and-candlelight-concerts\/\">Jazz nights and candlelight concerts<small>Small rooms, late sets<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-classical-music-events-in-prague\/\">Classical music in Prague<small>The halls, and how to book<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Choirs and churches<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/churches-in-prague-hosting-christmas-choirs\/\">Churches hosting Christmas choirs<small>Which church, which evening<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-enjoy-live-carols-and-choir-performances-in-december\/\">Live carols in December<small>Including the free ones on the squares<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/churches-with-the-best-acoustics\/\">Churches with the best acoustics<small>It makes more difference than the programme<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/museum-of-the-infant-jesus-of-prague\/\">The Infant Jesus of Prague<small>The city&rsquo;s most travelled statue<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Theatre and screens<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/winter-theater-shows-worth-seeing-in-december\/\">December theatre shows<small>What is on, and what needs no Czech<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-puppetry\/\">Czech puppetry<small>A UNESCO tradition, and where to see a show<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-winter-exhibitions-and-art-installations-in-prague\/\">Winter exhibitions<small>For the grey afternoons between markets<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-kids\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Family<\/div>\n<h2>Christmas with children<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/family\/\">All family guides &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">The markets are genuinely good for children &mdash; live animals in the nativity pen on Old Town Square, a carousel, and food they will actually eat. Bring gloves and plan to leave before the evening crush.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-g4\"><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/what-to-do-around-christmas-in-prague-with-kids\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/prague-christmas-market-photos-2019-2020-andel-8669-768x512.jpg\" alt=\"Family at a Prague Christmas market\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Start here<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Christmas in Prague with kids<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">The nativity animals, the carousel, and which markets are worth the pushchair.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Family guide<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-kids-meet-santa-and-angels\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/prague-christmas-photos-old-town-december-snowy-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Children at the Prague Christmas market\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Mikul&aacute;&scaron;<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Where kids meet Santa and angels<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">How the 5 December visit works, and where to see it without the shouting.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">St Nicholas<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/family-friendly-christmas-spots-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/prague-family-photography-old-town-charles-bridge-locations-498-1024x682-1-768x512.jpg\" alt=\"A family on the Charles Bridge in Prague\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Places<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Family-friendly Christmas spots<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">The markets and attractions that hold up with small children in the cold.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Where to go<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a class=\"pw-card\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/cozy-cafes-for-families-to-warm-up\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"ph\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/delice-cafe-prague-cafe3-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"A Prague caf&eacute; on a winter afternoon\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"bd\">\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Warm up<\/div>\n<div class=\"h\">Cosy cafes for families<\/div>\n<div class=\"p\">Places that will not mind a wet coat, a loud child and a long stay.<\/div>\n<div class=\"n\">Breaks<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-secMost of what is on the main squares is imported and priced for tourists. The things actually worth buying &mdash; garnet, wooden toys, glass, painted decorations &mdash; are usually one street back or at a neighbourhood market.\" id=\"pw-gifts\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Shopping<\/div>\n<h2>Gifts worth carrying home<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>What to buy<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/top-10-christmas-souvenir-ideas-to-take-home\/\">Ten Christmas souvenir ideas<small>What is genuinely Czech, and what is not<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/handmade-gifts-from-local-markets\/\">Handmade gifts from local markets<small>Where the makers actually sell<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/local-christmas-markets-for-handmade-crafts\/\">Markets for handmade crafts<small>The neighbourhood ones<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/shopping-guide-to-prague\/\">Shopping guide to Prague<small>Beyond the Christmas stalls<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Around the shopping<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-christmas-lights-and-decorations-streets-in-prague\/\">Streets for Christmas lights<small>The good walking between shops<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-rooftop-bars-to-enjoy-winter-views\/\">Rooftop bars with winter views<small>For the four o&rsquo;clock sunset<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/cafes-locals-visit-during-winter-nights\/\">Cafes locals use on winter nights<small>When the market crowd gets too much<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-city-suburban-transport-tram-train-bus-ferry-prices\/\">Transport tickets and prices<small>Trams beat walking with bags<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-romance\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Romance<\/div>\n<h2>Christmas for two<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/valentines-day-in-prague\/\">Valentine&rsquo;s Day in Prague &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">December is the busiest month of the year for proposals in Prague, and the reason is obvious the first time you see the Old Town Square from a window at dusk. February has its own guide.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>The evening<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-dinners-with-a-view-of-prague-castle\/\">Christmas dinners with a Castle view<small>Where to book, and how far ahead<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/romantic-winter-cafes-for-couples-in-prague\/\">Romantic winter cafes<small>Small rooms, long afternoons<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/best-rooftop-bars-to-enjoy-winter-views\/\">Rooftop bars with winter views<small>Heated terraces and glass rooms<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/most-romantic-places-in-prague-for-couples\/\">Most romantic places in Prague<small>The year-round list<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Proposals<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-proposal-ideas-around-prague\/\">Christmas proposal ideas<small>Including the ones that do not involve a crowd<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-best-12-marriage-proposal-location-in-prague\/\">Best proposal locations in Prague<small>Seventeen spots, with the timings<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/proposal-in-prague\/\">Proposing in Prague<small>How people actually do it here<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/valentines-day-in-prague\/\">Valentine&rsquo;s Day in Prague<small>The February version of all this<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-secThe markets stay open through New Year and only pack up on 6 January. New Year&rsquo;s Eve itself is loud, crowded and expensive &mdash; and the first week of January is one of the quietest, cheapest times to be in the city.\" id=\"pw-newyear\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">New Year<\/div>\n<h2>Silvestr and the end of the season<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>New Year&rsquo;s Eve<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-go-for-new-years-party-in-prague\/\">Where to go on New Year&rsquo;s Eve<small>Bars, boats and the bridges<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-hear-live-music-on-new-years-eve\/\">Live music on New Year&rsquo;s Eve<small>An alternative to standing in a crowd<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-new-year-traditions-you-might-not-expect\/\">Czech New Year traditions<small>Lentil soup, and what you must not eat<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>And afterwards<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/cultural-events-you-shouldnt-miss-before-christmas-ends\/\">Before the season ends<small>What is still on between the 27th and the 6th<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-in-january\/\">Prague in January<small>The quietest, coldest, cheapest month<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/winter-in-prague\/\">Winter in Prague<small>The rest of the cold season, in full<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\" id=\"pw-practical\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Practical<\/div>\n<h2>What you will look up anyway<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/prague-tourist-guide\/\">All travel tips &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-fx\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Market hours<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">10:00&ndash;22:00<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Daily on the main squares, entry free. Go before 11:00 or after 20:00 to miss the crush.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">The quiet day<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">24 December<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Shops shut by early afternoon; most restaurants do not open in the evening at all.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Closed days<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">25&ndash;26 Dec<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Two public holidays, plus 1 January. Markets run, shops mostly do not.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Paying<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">Card &amp; cash<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Most stalls take cards now, but carry a few hundred koruna for the small ones.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Mug deposit<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">50&ndash;100 CZK<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Mulled wine comes with a returnable mug. Take it back, or keep it as the souvenir.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Booking<\/div>\n<div class=\"big\">Months ahead<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Christmas Eve dinner and New Year&rsquo;s Eve tables go long before December.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-cols\" style=\"margin-top:13px\">\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Getting around<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-city-suburban-transport-tram-train-bus-ferry-prices\/\">Transport tickets and prices<small>Tram, metro, bus, train and ferry<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-airport-to-city-centre\/\">Airport to the city centre<small>Bus, taxi and what each costs<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Dates and closures<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-public-holidays-guide-for-tourists\/\">Czech public holidays<small>What shuts, and when<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/czech-traditions-through-the-year\/\">Czech traditions through the year<small>Witches, whips and carp<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-col\">\n<h3>Where to sleep<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/where-to-stay-in-prague\/\">Where to stay in Prague<small>Neighbourhood by neighbourhood<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/prague-hotels\/\">All Prague hotels<small>Reviewed, with location notes<\/small><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec pw-faq\" id=\"pw-faq\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Questions<\/div>\n<h2>Christmas in Prague, answered<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<details>\n<summary>When exactly are the markets open?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>From the tree lighting at the end of November &mdash; 28 November in 2026 &mdash; until 6 January, daily from 10:00 to 22:00 on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Entry is free. The neighbourhood markets run shorter seasons, often finishing before Christmas Eve. Dates and hours for each one are in the <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-markets-prague\/\">markets guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>Will there be snow?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>Probably not, and certainly not reliably. Prague sits low and inland, and December is more often grey and damp around freezing than white. Snow is likelier in January and February &mdash; see <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/winter-in-prague\/\">Winter in Prague<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>Why is Christmas on the 24th here?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>Central European custom: the celebration is the evening of &Scaron;t&ecaron;dr&yacute; den, the 24th. Families fast through the day, eat carp and potato salad at dinner, and open presents afterwards &mdash; brought by Je&zcaron;&iacute;&scaron;ek, the baby Jesus, not Santa Claus. The 25th and 26th are quiet public holidays.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>Is anything open on 24, 25 and 26 December?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>On the 24th, shops close by about 14:00 and most restaurants stay shut in the evening &mdash; book anything you need well ahead. On the 25th and 26th the markets and major sights open, most shops do not. The <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/prague-public-holidays-guide-for-tourists\/\">holidays guide<\/a> has the detail.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>Are the markets a tourist trap?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>The two main squares are expensive and very crowded, and much of the merchandise is imported. They are still worth seeing once, especially early in the day. For the version locals use, go to the <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/local-christmas-markets-for-handmade-crafts\/\">neighbourhood markets<\/a> &mdash; N&aacute;m&ecaron;st&iacute; M&iacute;ru, Ji&rcaron;&iacute;ho z Pod&ecaron;brad and the Castle courtyards.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>What is the carp about?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>Fried carp is the Christmas Eve main course, and in the week before the 24th it is sold live from tubs on street corners. Some families keep it in the bath for a day or two first. The <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/the-story-behind-czech-christmas-carp\/\">full story<\/a> is stranger than the summary.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>When is the best time to come?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>The first half of December, if you want the markets without the worst of the crowds. The week between Christmas and New Year is busy and expensive; the first week of January, with the markets still up and the city empty, is the quiet secret.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details>\n<summary>What should we book in advance?<\/summary>\n<div class=\"a\">\n<p>Hotels for the whole of December, and any restaurant table on 24 or 31 December &mdash; those go months ahead. Concert tickets for the bigger Advent programmes sell out too. Everything else can be decided on the day.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pw-sec\">\n<div class=\"pw-head\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pw-lbl\">Keep reading<\/div>\n<h2>Every Christmas article<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"pw-more\" href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/category\/christmas-in-prague\/\">Christmas archive &rarr;<\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-sub\">The archive holds everything published on the holiday, newest first. The season guides below cover the rest of the year.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pw-seasons\"><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/winter-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"s\">Winter in Prague<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">The rest of the cold season<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/valentines-day-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"s\">Valentine&rsquo;s Day<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">February, for two<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/spring-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"s\">Spring in Prague<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Blossom and Easter<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/summer-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"s\">Summer in Prague<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Beer gardens and river<\/div>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/autumn-in-prague\/\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"s\">Autumn in Prague<\/div>\n<div class=\"t\">Wine, colour and quiet<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<p class=\"pw-note\" style=\"margin-top:16px\">The 2026&ndash;2027 dates above are confirmed. Market opening hours and individual events change each year &mdash; the <a href=\"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/christmas-markets-prague\/\">markets guide<\/a> is updated every season, so check it before booking a trip around a date.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Christmas in Prague: market dates and hours, the tree lighting, Czech Christmas Eve, the carp, Advent concerts, gifts, New Year and the practical details.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_titles_title":"Christmas in Prague: Markets, Dates and Traditions","_seopress_titles_desc":"Christmas in Prague - market dates and opening hours, the tree lighting, Czech Christmas Eve and the carp, Advent concerts, gifts, New Year and what closes when.","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":0,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"christmas in prague","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-18074","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18074","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18074"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18074\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18090,"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18074\/revisions\/18090"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/praguehints.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18074"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}