“Brno Christmas 2024 – What Awaits You?”
As the European Capital of Christmas 2024, Brno promises a magical experience that captures the true spirit of the season. With charming market stalls, festive lights, and cozy holiday vibes, the Brno Christmas Market is your destination for a memorable holiday experience. The main slogan says Brno Christmas is the 2nd best Christmas in the world, right after yours at home, and I must agree.
What makes Brno Christmas so special, and why it is a must visit?
When does Brno Christmas 2024 begin?
The festivities begin on November 22nd and run through December 23rd. However, one event take a place already on Nov 16th and it is Christmas tree transport from Bílovice nad Svitavou to the city centre. It is a tradition that has been part of Brno’s history for 100 years. The tree is transported by horse-drawn coach, with stops along the trail where people eagerly await and welcome it.
Where does Brno Christmas 2024 take place?
Throughout the Christmas season, Brno’s city center will be filled with festive events across four main squares and one courtyard:
Freedom square: A Place to Gather with Friends
Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody) is the lively heart of Brno’s Christmas market, where people gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere. You can take a ride on the Christmas tram, and take a photo in front of the main beautifully decorated Christmas tree with a wishing bell. A central attraction alongside Christmas tree is the Winter Bar, serving punches, cider, and ginger drinks. 62 stalls offer unique gifts and culinary specialties. Visitors can indulge in local treats and explore a variety of gift options for loved ones. The square also hosts a daily cultural and musical program, with two concerts and special performances every day, plus local music and folklore on Saturdays.
Dominican square: Perfect for Families with Children
This square is the ideal destination for families attending the Brno Christmas market with children. Its centerpiece is Halouzek’s large wooden nativity scene—one of the largest handmade nativity scenes in Central Europe—with hundreds of figures set in front of the New Town Hall. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by a children’s Christmas village, a Christmas carousel, and intimate gastronomic offerings from 8 charming stands.
Moravian square: Non-profit Organizations, Ferris Wheel, Ice Rink
Looking to buy a gift and support a good cause at the same time? Moravian Square hosts 9 stands run by non-profit organizations, offering meaningful options that make a difference. In the park at Moravian Square, you can take a ride on the observation wheel for stunning views of Christmas in Brno or enhance your ice skating skills at the Christmas ice rink.
Vegetable market: 100 Stands with Handicraft Products
Vegetable market will once again offer a traditional, artisanal, and peaceful atmosphere, with a grand Christmas tree as its centerpiece. A live music program will take place daily from Monday to Sunday, featuring performances by children from local schools to enhance the family-friendly vibe. With over 100 stalls, visitors can find handcrafted items like ceramics, bath salts, and Christmas ornaments, along with skilled artisans such as blacksmiths and candle makers, plus food and drink options to complete the experience. Part of the square will be convereted into a new 600 m2 Christmas Children’s Village.
Courtyard of the Old Town: Brno’s Culinary Hotspot
Attention food lovers: this is the place for you! Brno’s renowned gastronomic scene is showcasing its Christmas specialties, prepared by the city’s top restaurants and bistros, the winners of prestigious Gourmet Brno. You can find these delicious offerings at one of nine festive stands on the Courtyard of Old Brno which provides a cozy winter atmosphere emphasize with the view on illuminated Old Town Hall tower.
Where to buy orginal Christmas Gifts from Brno?
Visitors can explore over 100 stands across all four squares, offering handcrafted gifts made by local artisans. If that’s not enough, the Tourist Information Centre has curated unique souvenirs to keep Brno in your memories. For fashion enthusiasts, the Mint Market design fair at the Vegetable Market is a must-visit, taking place on November 23–24, December 7–8, December 14–15, and December 21. If you miss the Mint Market, I recommend checking out Place Store for more local fashion and accessories.
Brno Christmas Light decoration
A new addition to Brno Christmas 2024 is the light trail on Bašty Street, near the main train station. The trail features rich decorations, including animal-themed displays, illuminated gates, decorated trees, and neon art installations at the end. There are also photo spots with glowing signs. However, the most photogenic spot will undoubtedly be the Brno Dragon, which will wear a light-up Christmas sweater for the second time and breathe fire in festive style.
Spilberk castle during Christmas
Spilberk Castle will welcome visitors with fascinating light installations inspired by the city’s history. Alongside the illuminated park, you can enjoy themed exhibitions, Christmas workshops, and a rich program designed for the whole family.
Reusable Christmas cups
Visitors to the Brno Christmas markets can try the new reusable cups this year, now available with optional lids for the first time. The cups feature a fresh design and are made from materials better suited for hot drinks. You can keep them as a souvenir or to donate them. The “Donate a Cup” initiative, in its third year, allows visitors to donate their cup deposit to charity. And how does it work? Simply visit the Brno Christmas markets, enjoy a warm drink, and take your empty cup to the “Donate a Cup” stands. There, you can choose a charitable organization to support with your cup deposit—it’s that easy!
Brno Christmas Walking Tour
Join me for the Brno Christmas Walking Tour, where we’ll explore the city’s main landmarks beautifully illuminated with festive lights. As we stroll through Brno’s historic streets, I’ll share stories about Czech Advent traditions and unique local customs surrounding Christmas. We’ll visit Christmas market stands offering traditional hot beverages like Turbomošt and seasonal treats such as roasted chestnuts. You’ll also have the chance to admire and purchase handcrafted Christmas decorations, each reflecting the charm of local artistry. Along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating pieces of Brno’s rich history, blending the past with the magical present of the holiday season.
Šťastné a Veselé Vánoce 2024!
