Prague In Your Pocket

Traditionally speaking, nearly all over the world, the mad rush at the end of the year gives way to the fat, lazy days of a new year. In Prague it is no different. Chocolate Santa’s have been in the stores since October, the street decorations are lit and everyone is busy booking tables in their favourite restaurants for a last minute Christmas party. So how will a holiday spent in Prague be different than one back home? Markets and music. Most squares have sprung up some sort of Christmas market. The wares may not be what you had in mind, but they’ll all be offering hot drinks. Visit the Christmas & New Year section for more details. If you are looking for someplace nice for Christmas dinner, we've made some suggestions, along with the story of the traditional Czech Christmas meal, under Christmas Carp.

Prague is a musical city year round, but take advantage of this magical time and indulge yourself with a concert in an historical church or other notable venue. Check out some suggestions in the Culture section as well as on our Christmas & New Year pages.

Visitors from other Central European countries will recognize some of the St. Nicholas festivities that occur the evening of 5 December. Wander the streets tonight and you’ll be in the company of angels, devils and St. Nicholas.’ Usually travelling in groups of 3, they visit children, bringing oranges and sweets to the good ones, and coal and potatoes to the ones who need some behaviour modification in the coming year. The trio (and most adults) usually winds up in a pub so don’t be surprised to share your table with the devil.

Christmas here is celebrated on 24 December. The tree is decorated in the afternoon and a dinner of fish soup, fried carp and potato salad is enjoyed. After dinner, gifts, brought by Baby Jesus, are exchanged.

Whatever your mood and whatever you reason for a visit; Prague is extra charming around the holidays. And if you are here in sluggish January; it’s ok. You’ll find less people, warm museums and an always welcoming hot meal and drink. If you’ve fully digested your carp.

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