Czech Christmas and magic Christmas markets in Prague 2011

Traditions and customs are an inherent part of Christmas, and a great many are observed in the Czech Republic. The sweetest of these traditions is baking Christmas pastries. “Beehives”, “bear paws”, Linzer cookies and vanilla crescents have all been baked in Czech households since long ago. In the Czech Republic, presents are given by the Infant Jesus, who leaves them under the Christmas tree in the evening on 24 December. Czech Christmas supper characteristically includes a fish soup, potato salad and fried carp.

The largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Prague take place on the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. This year the Prague Christmas markets on Old Town Square will be open from 26 November 2011 to 1 January 2012. Stands selling Christmas decorations, gift items, sweets, nativity sets and jewellery can be visited every day from 9 am to 5 pm. On Saturday, 26 November 2011, you can witness the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree – you need only to be at Old Town Square at 5:00 PM. You can also visit the Christmas market at Wenceslaus Squarefrom 27 November 2011 to 1 January 2012.