Christmas 2024: The Magic of Advent in Central Bohemia

Berounsko: Merry-Go-Round, Ice Skating, and Christmas Events at the Museum

From December 1st to 23rd, Husovo Square will host the traditional Beroun Advent with Christmas markets. In addition to the stalls, there will be plenty of attractions for children, including a merry-go-round, an ice rink, and a petting zoo.

On select days, you can enjoy popular pre-Christmas events at the Museum of the Czech Karst, such as a market featuring handmade goods by Czech artisans (November 30th), a St. Nicholas gift-giving event (December 1st), a nativity scene exhibition (December 1st to January 6th), and a creative workshop for all ages where you can make decorations from gingerbread dough (December 7th).

You can also experience the festive spirit at Karlštejn Castle, where the Imperial Palace is beautifully decorated for Advent as part of the regular tour of the Imperial Residence of Charles IV. Karlštejn is one of the castles that remains open year-round.

Příbram: Fireworks, Light Park, and Nativity Scenes

The opening day of the markets, December 1st, will feature a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky over Příbram after many years. Each Advent Sunday will bring Christmas cheer with concerts and special events around the city. Be sure to combine your visit to the markets with performances at the A. Dvořák Theatre: St. Nicholas at the Theatre (December 5th), Christmas at the Theatre (December 8th), or a concert by the Spirituál Kvartet (December 27th).

A highlight is the exhibition of historical and contemporary nativity scenes from the Příbram mining region, once again hosted at the Vojtěch Mine. Milan Hošek’s nativity scene, expanded this year with new buildings and a miners’ band, represents contemporary work. The ceramic nativity scenes by Josef Tichý and Tomáš Wild showcase famous structures from the Ševčinský Mine area, as well as the Church of St. Wenceslaus in Březové hory. The exhibition runs from December 6th, 2024, to January 5th, 2025.

For a magical pre-Christmas experience, visit Lights Tell Stories at the Nový rybník leisure complex. From December 2nd to January 12th, enchanting light sculptures and decorations made of thousands of LED lights will dazzle you every day from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. You can also enjoy a similar experience at the light park in the Ratměřice castle garden.

Kolín: Crafts Market and Music Program

Every December, Kolín combines the charm of its royal history with the magic of the holiday season, and this year is no exception. In addition to the Christmas markets, visitors can enjoy the traditional Czech carousel (December 6th–15th) and ice skating under the Christmas lights (December 6th–January 6th). On December 7th, a special crafts market will be held, and on December 8th and 13th, the town square will come alive with a festive dance and music program.

Christmas at the Castle, Glassworks, and Brewery

Loučeň Castle – Step into a festive wonderland with guides in costume and beautifully decorated Christmas trees at the “Christmas Tree Story” exhibition, this year themed “A Journey Around the World.” The exhibition runs from November 23rd to January 23rd, and Loučeň Castle is open year-round, seven days a week.

Křivoklát Castle – Enjoy traditional Advent markets, a craft fair, the aroma of Christmas treats, and a variety of activities for both children and adults, all set in one of the oldest residences of Czech kings. Experience the holiday magic on weekends, December 7th–8th and 14th–15th. The castle is also open on winter weekends.

Rückl Glassworks – Create your own Christmas ornament, paint a glass candle holder, and watch master glassblowers in action. On December 6th, celebrate Saint Nicholas, and from December 7th to 14th, enjoy Advent workshops. You can visit any time during regular hours for a tour.

Malešov Brewery – Discover unique experiences, including pig-slaughter feasts (December 7th–8th), Advent at the Malešov Fortress with craft markets (December 8th), and Old Czech Christmas at the brewery (December 21st–22nd).

Český Šternberk Castle– Every weekend during Advent, the gates of Český Šternberk Castle open to welcome you. Come admire the festive decorations, immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of Advent, and experience how Christmas was celebrated at the castle during the First Republic. At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a small gift to carry the holiday spirit with you long after your visit.