Prague Christmas markets - 01 December 2007 - 01 January 2008

Prague Christmas markets operate daily at the Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square. A 'winter wonderland' awaits, as visitors come to soak up the atmosphere, browse the stalls and enjoy Christmas carols, warm food and hot wine.

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 holiday spirit in a true 'winter wonderland' setting.

Prague Christmas markets run daily from 9am to 7pm throughout the festive period. The main markets are at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with smaller ones at Namesti Republiky & Havelske Trziste.

The Prague Christmas markets consist of 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!

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. Erected in the Old Town Square, the tree is draped in a blaze of lights. Set against a dark gothic skyline, this is a spectacular sight.

But what would Christmas be without carols? Local and International choirs, along with musical ensembles, take to the stage in the Old Town Square, entertaining visitors as they browse the market stalls.

School children from throughout the Czech Republic also come to entertain. The highlight of their year, the school children dress in traditional costume to dance and sing for the crowd.

Christmas in Prague is simply wonderful.

For more information visit pragueexperience.com