Kids in Prague

Prague Christmas Markets and Outdoor Ice Rink 2011

Events on 21 November 2011 by Larissa (1 comment)

Crazy as it seems, some of Prague’s Christmas Markets are already open, an early start to Advent. This time of year would be so dull without the brightly lit huts huddling around Christmas Trees in our local squares. My tip is to make sure you try the body warming svařák (mulled wine) and other customary treats as you walk around the various craft stands. Following is a list of locations and dates for the most popular markets located all over town.

PRAGUE 1

Staroměstské Náměstí
November 26 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. Bookmark Saturday, November 26 at 17:15 to witness the lighting of Prague’s Christmas Tree (a 22 metre high Spruce). Here is a lovely film of the tree last year.

Václavské Náměstí
November 26 to January 1
Up the road from the main action in Staroměstské Náměstí, similar products without the crowds. Don’t forget to visit Ovocný Trh (behind the Estates Theatre), this is where you can ice skate for free! A small fee is charged for skate rental which goes to charity. Skate rink opens December 5 to January 6 from 10.00 to 22.00.

Náměstí Republiky
November 25 to December 24
Similar to V. Nám - a quieter market away from the main crowds, in between the shopping malls of Palladium and Kotva.

PRAGUE 2

Náměstí Míru
November 20 to December 24
Already open!
Intimate markets in front of the beautiful church, surrounded by the trees and gardens of this square.

PRAGUE 3

Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad
November 23 to December 24
These are my local markets. Look out for us, under the musical Christmas tree - I will have svařák in hand!

PRAGUE 4

Arkády Pankrác
December 5 to December 23
In front of one of Prague’s biggest shopping centres, these markets will feature the usual christmas treats, ornaments and gifts plus a famers market.

PRAGUE 5

Anděl
November 28 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 from 4 Dec to 23 Dec at 15.30 to 18.30 every day as well as a nativity scene and Christmas Tree.

PRAGUE 6

Vítězné Náměstí
Open for Advent Weekends (beginning 25 November) every Friday to Sunday; 9am to 7pm
Includes a Farmers’ Market. Mikuláš will also make an appearance on December 3.

PRAGUE 7

Holešovice Exhibition Grounds (Výstaviště Holešovice)
December 9 to December 18
There will be Christmas Markets outside the exhibition grounds in Holešovice. This will also coincide with a Ceramics and Handicrafts Fair inside the exhibition building from December 9 to 11, the fair also feature Christmas dancing and singing performances for children.