Christmas is a widely celebrated holiday around the world, and Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is no exception. The festive spirit fills the air as locals and tourists come together to celebrate this joyous occasion. Let’s take a closer look at how people in Prague celebrate Christmas.
Decorations
When December approaches, Prague transforms into a winter wonderland with stunning decorations adorning the streets and buildings. The city’s main square, Old Town Square, becomes the focal point of Christmas festivities.
A magnificent Christmas tree takes center stage, illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. The surrounding streets are adorned with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors.
Christmas Markets
One of the highlights of Christmas in Prague is the charming Christmas markets that pop up throughout the city. These markets offer an array of traditional Czech food and drinks, handicrafts, and unique gifts.
Locals and visitors alike gather here to indulge in delicious treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry), svařák (mulled wine), and klobása (sausages). It’s also an excellent opportunity to find handmade ornaments or locally produced souvenirs.
Traditional Czech Customs
Czech people have their own unique customs when it comes to celebrating Christmas. One such tradition is setting up a nativity scene at home, complete with figurines representing Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, shepherds, and animals. This scene serves as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Did you know? In Czech culture, it is believed that if you fast on Christmas Eve until dinner time and then break your fast with a special meal consisting of fish soup followed by fried carp with potato salad, you will see a golden piglet on the wall at midnight. This is considered a sign of good luck!
Christmas Eve
In Prague, Christmas Eve, known as Štědrý den, is the main day of celebration. Families gather together to enjoy a traditional Czech Christmas dinner.
The table is beautifully set with a white tablecloth and adorned with candles and festive decorations. The meal typically consists of fish (often carp), potato salad, and other traditional dishes like mushroom soup or schnitzel.
After dinner, families exchange gifts, which are traditionally brought by Ježíšek (Baby Jesus). It is common for families to attend midnight mass at one of Prague’s many beautiful churches to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Post-Christmas Celebrations
The Christmas celebrations don’t end on December 25th in Prague. The holiday spirit continues into the following days, with various events and activities taking place throughout the city. Ice skating rinks are set up in different locations, allowing both locals and tourists to glide gracefully on the ice.
Tip: Don’t miss out on visiting Prague Castle during this time! The castle complex offers breathtaking views of the city and is especially enchanting during the festive season.
In Conclusion
Prague truly comes alive during Christmas, offering a magical experience for everyone who visits. From the enchanting decorations to the bustling markets and rich traditions, there is no shortage of joy and merriment in this captivating city. So if you find yourself in Prague during the holiday season, be sure to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and create unforgettable memories.