Christmas in the Czech Republic: romantic, snowy, fun and beautiful!

Christmas is a time of traditions, good food, family atmosphere and entertainment in the Czech Republic. Preparations begin in the period of Advent, four weeks before the festive day when towns will be adorned with the first snow and trees will be lit up.

The Advent markets evoke the atmosphere of upcoming Christmas throughout the Czech Republic. You can taste traditional goodies such as trdelník or mead or you can buy Christmas decorations in the picturesque stalls in squares. Christmas carols full of familiar tones and melodies also immerse you in the festive mood. The Advent markets will be in Prague's Old Town Square from November 29, when the Christmas tree will be officially lit. The popular market is also in historic Olomouc which is the only one that offers true Nuremberg punch. Do not miss the magic of this winter Moravian town, awarded by the prestigious Lonely Planet as a hidden pearl of Europe.

Devils and angels appear in the streets, Czechs celebrate St. Nicholas

Even before Czech children open Christmas presents, St. Nicholas gives them gifts on December 5th. You can meet him in his red cloak with a crosier with his entourage - the angel and the devil - in the street as he goes from house to house. He brings a package of sweets and fruits to children who were good throughout the year. Naughty tykes will get only coal, potatoes or will be scared by the devil.

The tradition of sweet presents comes from the legend of St. Nicholas, who lived in Myra. According to the preserved story, the saint threw a bundle of money to a poor family through the window and so the family got rid of their debts.

Czech towns prepare, the eve before the feast of St. Nicholas, special St. Nicholas programs on their squares on December 5. Children will be able to sing or recite a poem for a sweet reward.

Tree, carp and Baby Jesus must all be a part of Christmas Eve

Christmas time peaks at Christmas dinner on December 24, when the whole family meets around the table. They sing Christmas carols around the lit-up Christmas tree, cut up apples for good luck or guess the future from molten lead poured into water. Carp should not be missing on the table, either breaded or fried, but legumes or dried fruit prevailed in ancient times. You can also taste a special Christmas menu in many restaurants. The daylong fasting is one of the Christmas traditions, which ends with a rich dinner. It is said that he who can stand not eating, will see a golden pig as a reward. It is not easy because you feel the smell of sweets and gingerbreads from every corner.

Christmas in the Czech Republic cannot do without gifts that Baby Jesus brings to Czech children. They do not have to wait with their unwrapping until the next day and so the Christmas Eve is full of joy, laughter and emotion. With the approaching midnight, the family goes to Mass to church and wishes friends and relatives a peaceful holiday.

Culturally Christmas experience

Life in the Czech cities will fully warm up in the next festive days and the metropolis is not an exception. The National Theatre prepares several shows, among them the ballet The Nutcracker. Since its first premiere back in 1892, the ballet has changed its appearance a countless number of times, and now the time has come for another setup in Prague. The Nutcracker has always been popular with both children and adults, and will be on the National Theatre’s poster since the end of November, last performance will be played on the 31^st of January.

Celebrate on skates

Looking for something more dynamic after a few busy days in Prague with shopping and lots of Christmas food? Then take a look at the fairytale Fruit Market (Ovocný trh) in Old Town, where, every throughout the whole of winter, you can skate into late evening right beside the Estates Theatre. The magical atmosphere is accompanied by not just sport, but also a variety of events, special events aimed at children, live music and various kinds of entertainment, not to mention culinary delicacies and, naturally, skate hire!

ČCCR — CzechTourism

is an allowance organization of the Ministry for Regional development of the Czech Republic. Its main activity is the promotion of the Czech Republic as an attractive tourist destination both at home and abroad.

www.czechtourism.com