Event Details
Welcome to the Prague Christmas Market 2026
From 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027, Prague's Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) transforms into one of Europe's most breathtaking Christmas destinations. Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, around 200 festively decorated wooden stalls fill the square in front of the iconic Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Entry is free of charge.
Highlights
- 26-metre Christmas tree sourced from the Bohemian Forest, lit on opening evening (28 November, 4:30 PM)
- Around 200 market stalls selling Czech crafts, jewellery and festive decorations
- Traditional Czech food and drink: Trdelník, Svařák (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts and gingerbread
- Daily stage performances: children's choirs, folk ensembles and carol concerts
- Traditional St. Nicholas Day celebrations on 5 December
- New Year's Eve celebrations on Old Town Square on 31 December
- Hourly Astronomical Clock show daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Around 3 million visitors expected throughout the season
Program
The market is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On Christmas Eve (24 December) and Christmas Day (25 and 26 December) hours are reduced to 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Throughout Advent, the stage on Old Town Square hosts daily performances by children's choirs, folklore ensembles and local musicians. The traditional St. Nicholas celebration takes place on 5 December. On 31 December, the square hosts a large New Year's Eve event with live music and fireworks. Each evening, a synchronized light and music show runs at fixed times around the Christmas tree.
Food and Drink
The culinary offer is a highlight in itself. Must-tries include Svařák (Czech mulled wine) or hot chocolate served in ceramic souvenir cups, the famous Trdelník (a spiral pastry baked over an open flame and dusted with cinnamon sugar), grilled sausages, traditional gingerbread, roasted apples and hearty Czech dishes such as Svíčková and goulash. The ceramic mugs can be taken home as a souvenir against a small deposit paid at purchase.
Visitor Tips
- Old Town Square gets very busy in December; early morning or evening visits offer the best atmosphere and fewer crowds.
- Arrive by Metro Line A (Staroměstská station) or Můstek (Lines A/B); driving is not recommended.
- For the best view of the entire market, climb the Old Town Hall Tower.
- Hotels in Prague's Old Town fill up fast during Advent; book accommodation several months in advance.
- When shopping, look for genuine Czech handmade crafts and avoid stalls selling imported mass-produced souvenirs.
- Bring warm and waterproof clothing; Prague in November and December can be cold and wet.
- Entry to all Prague Christmas markets is free; costs arise only for food, drinks and purchases.
