Prague at Christmas - a Baroque winter wonderland
Prague, the beautiful and romantic capital of the Czech Republic, hosts a number of cultural events at Christmas, including folk displays, concerts and theatre throughout December. There are a number of family friendly Christmas markets, the biggest of which is held on the busy Old Town Square. The idyllic Baroque cobbled square makes the perfect setting for a Christmas market, made even more seasonal by the generous layer of snow that usually falls in Prague at Christmas. One of the most fantastic sights of the square at Christmas is the Christmas tree, shipped from the Sumava mountains in the South of the Czech Republic, and draped in a blaze of lights, which are turned on every night at around five in the evening. Set against the dark gothic skyline, this is truly a spectacular sight, especially with a light dusting of snow.
An additional feature of the market is a small zoo of ponies, goats, and sheep, that is much loved by the children – rumour has it that there is now even the odd llama. There are pretty rows of colourfully decorated wooden huts, where you can buy some rather nice hand-made stocking fillers, including locally made wooden puppets, jewellery, toys, candles and even Bohemian crystal. The proceedings are serenaded by carol singers and bands playing seasonal tunes.
As well as the market in the Old Town Square, there is a market in Wenceslas Square from December 5th-23rd, and there are smaller markets at Namesti Republiky and Havelske Trziste. Needless to say, many of the market goers imbibe mulled wine as they take in the handicrafts and delicacies, such as sausage and corn on the cob.
If you are travelling from London, then EasyJet do flights from Stansted to Prague starting from £40 one way, but book early to get the best prices.
Filed under: Shopping, Christmas markets, Czech Republic, Flights, Eastern Europe
