Experience Christmas at Prague Castle with a festive walk and a free open day

The Christmas season brings a magical atmosphere to Prague Castle, with a variety of festive events and free experiences for visitors. This year, the Castle invites everyone to take part in its Christmas Stroll, a celebration running from the beginning of Advent (Nov. 30) until Jan. 5.

The event features a mix of traditional Czech craftsmanship, concerts, and unique holiday-themed exhibitions that highlight the best of local culture. Additionally, Prague Castle will host an Open Day on Nov. 30, with free entry to most areas of the castle grounds.

As part of the Christmas Stroll at Prague Castle, visitors can explore the beautifully lit-up Castle grounds, which will be adorned with Christmas workshops, exhibitions, and special performances.

One of the key highlights is the Bethlehem Yurt, located on the terrace of the Prague Castle Riding School. The yurt, created by the Forman Brothers' Theatre, offers visitors a glimpse into a traditional Czech Christmas scene and a chance to enjoy art workshops for children.

In addition, the Castle's Rosenberg Palace will host an exhibition titled The Delicate Beauty of Christmas, which showcases a forest of Christmas trees decorated with handcrafted Czech ornaments, some of which are among those inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy concerts by Prague's elementary art schools and the Band of the Castle Guard every Sunday throughout Advent. This festive atmosphere provides an opportunity to either join in the celebrations or take a moment to relax and enjoy the seasonal charm.

All of the locations, exhibitions, events, and concerts throughout the Prague Castle Christmas Stroll are free to attend.

In addition to the Christmas Stroll, Prague Castle will host an Open Day on Nov.30, offering free access to several parts of the Castle that are usually closed to the public. This special event will allow visitors to explore the otherwise inaccessible state rooms of Prague Castle, which will be decorated for Christmas and filled with the scent of pine needles.

The Open Day includes a chance to visit the rooms where President Petr Pavel holds official meetings and receives distinguished guests. Visitors will also have access to the Castle’s main visitor circuit, which includes St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and the Golden Lane.

Admission is free to almost all permanent exhibitions, including the Prague Castle Picture Gallery and The Story of Prague Castle. The only exceptions to free admission on Nov. 30 are the Great South Tower of the Cathedral and the Heart is a Temple exhibition. The Open Day runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entry at 4:30 p.m.

For more information about the Christmas festivities at Prague Castle this holiday season, consult the official Castle website.