Christmas markets 2026 in Prague and Brno: what to eat and where to warm up

Advent begins on Sunday 29 November 2026, and with it the Christmas market season. For locals and visitors alike the markets are all about atmosphere and food in the open air. Here's what's worth tasting, what to watch out for and where to go when you get cold.

Christmas market dates 2026

• Prague – Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square: according to the organiser from Saturday 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027, usually daily from 10:00 to 22:00. The main Christmas tree is due to be lit on the opening day.
• Other Prague markets: smaller markets appear on other squares too, for example Náměstí Míru.
• Brno: markets traditionally take place on Náměstí Svobody, Zelný trh and Moravské náměstí. Check the 2026 dates on the city's official tourist website.

What to eat and drink

• Mulled wine (svařák), mead (medovina) and punch – the classic way to warm up. Many markets charge a deposit for the mug, which you can return or keep as a souvenir.
• Sausages and ham carved off the bone – popular, but watch the price (see below).
• Langoš and potato pancakes (bramboráky) – filling and hot.
• Trdelník – sold everywhere. It is marketed as traditional Czech food but is more of a tourist favourite; it still tastes good.
• Gingerbread and vánočka (Christmas braided bread) – a sweet treat and a gift to take home.

Watch out for this

For ham, sausages and other meat sold by weight, the price is often shown per 100 grams, not per portion. Before ordering, ask how much your portion will weigh, or ask for a specific amount. Carry some cash – most stalls take cards, but not all. And dress warmly: standing on a square feels much colder than walking.

Where to warm up near the markets

• Prague, Old Town Square: the Potrefená husa on Platnéřská street is a few steps from the square.
• Brno, Moravské náměstí: one location is right on the square, at Moravské náměstí 249/8.
• Brno, Zelný trh: the Starobrněnská location is close to the Cabbage Market.

Check opening hours during Advent and especially on 24–26 December directly with the restaurant – they often change. All addresses are on our locations page.

Czech Christmas in a nutshell

The main day is Christmas Eve, 24 December (a Thursday in 2026). Dinner traditionally means fish soup, fried carp and potato salad, with Christmas cookies and vánočka on the table. Presents are brought by Ježíšek (Baby Jesus), not Santa. If you are visiting, expect many shops and restaurants to close on the afternoon of 24 December.