New Year's Eve in Prague: Fireworks rules and extended metro hours

As Prague prepares for the New Year’s Eve celebrations, authorities are rolling out enhanced security and traffic control measures to ensure public safety across the city. With thousands of revelers expected to gather in the capital's historic center, residents and visitors are advised to expect significant disruptions to traffic and public services.

To accommodate the influx of celebrants and maintain safety, several key areas around Prague’s famous landmarks will be affected by parking bans and road closures. From noon on Dec. 31 to 10 a.m. on Jan. 1, no parking will be allowed on Wenceslas Square. Additionally, a traffic ban will be enforced in the surrounding streets—Wilsonova, Jindřišská, Vodičkova, Štěpánská, Žitná, and Ve Smečkách—from 4 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until the following morning.

The area around Old Town Square will also experience restrictions, with Jáchymova and Pařížská streets closed from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. Similarly, in anticipation of large crowds on the Charles Bridge and nearby areas, traffic will be restricted along Smetanovo nábřeží, Křižovnická Street to Jan Palach Square, and parts of Josefská Street from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

In response to potential security threats, thousands of police officers will be deployed across Prague and other major cities in the Czech Republic, with a particular focus on "soft targets" such as shopping centers, airports, and train stations. Police will patrol crowded areas with long guns as part of a broader strategy to safeguard public spaces during the festivities.

Following the Christmas market attack in Magdeburg, Germany, authorities have implemented additional precautions. Concrete barriers have been placed around Prague’s Christmas markets to prevent similar incidents. While police have confirmed that there is no specific threat to Prague at this time, they are urging the public to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.

To help people move safely around the city, Prague’s public transport services will be operating at extended hours. Metro services will run until approximately 2:30 a.m., with additional tram and bus operations from 10 p.m. until the early morning hours. The Prague City Transport Company has advised passengers to check updated timetables for more details.

The use of over-the-counter pyrotechnics on Dec. 31, 2024, and Jan.1, 2025, is prohibited in the city center, waterfronts, parks, and near hospitals, retirement homes, and animal care facilities. This ban does not apply to professional fireworks requiring a permit under the Pyrotechnics Act. Police will monitor compliance, with fines of up to CZK 10,000 for violations and up to CZK 100,000 for repeat offenses.

A complete map of places where fireworks are banned can be seen here.

As an alternative to traditional fireworks, Prague offers a unique way to ring in the new year. On Jan.1, 2025, the iconic Powder Tower will open its observation deck to the public with a special program marking its 550th anniversary. For a symbolic fee of 55 CZK, visitors can enjoy access to the observation deck. Children under 15 enter for free. Tickets are available on-site, with the event running from 11 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.