Christmas is a special time of year in Prague and the Christmas markets (Vanocni trh) are a key ingredient in the Czech festive magic. The Prague Christmas markets bring visitors and locals together to share the Christmas atmosphere.

28 November - 1 January 2010

At the Prague Christmas markets, you'll find rows of brightly decorated wooden huts, selling Czech handicrafts, hot food (corn on the cob, sausages and local specialties) and warm drinks. Outdoor Christmas shopping is much easier with a cup of hot wine (svarene vino) in your hand!

The main markets are at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with smaller ones at Namesti Republiky & Havelske Trziste.

Some interesting Christmas stocking fillers can be found in the markets, which stock a variety of Czech glass, wooden toys, scented candles, Christmas tree ornaments, hand-made jewellery and, of course, puppets, always puppets!

Christmas markets are not just about shopping though. In Prague's Old Town Square there is also a mini zoo. Children can enjoy pony rides and stroke sheep, goats and even a lama. Next to this is a Bethlehem manger scene - a large wooden stable with a straw floor shows Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and the three kings.

Most impressive of all is the Christmas tree, shipped from the Sumava mountains in the South of the Czech Republic to the Old Town Square. The tree is draped in a blaze of lights, which, set against a dark gothic skyline, is a spectacular sight not to be missed!

*Christmas Market dates are provided by the Tourist Board, and may be subject to change.