Fairy Tale Prague: Christmas Markets & Snow

“Through the window, the night air appeared dense, each snowflake slowed in its long, tumbling fall through the black. It was the kind of snow that brought children running out their doors, made them turn their faces skyward, and spin in circles with their arms outstretched.” -Eowyn Ivey, The Snow Child

Isn’t that what happens when the first snow falls? We watch in amazement as the muddy autumn world turns a crisp winter white. It’s as if the lacy flakes dance and twirl and mimic our hearts during the first snowfall — we feel lighter, more joyful. Snow turns us all into children again, if we let it.

Prague’s Old Town Christmas Tree

This past weekend, in Prague, we had our first gorgeous snowfall. Yes, we suffered through an October snow that snapped tree limbs and piled atop colored leaves still on the trees. But this snow was different. It was the kind I classify as pure magic.

Snow in Old Town Square, Prague

My family and our dear friends’ family met at the National Theater for an afternoon Advent Concert. It was beautiful (next week, I’ve decided I have to blog about the Theater, which I LOVE). When we exited the Theater, a shimmering of pixie dust glittered in the air, stirring the Castle and the Vltava and the vintage trams rumbling by the legendary Cafe Slavia into a magical land.

Old Town Square and St Nicholas Church, Prague

By the time we walked into Old Town Square, snow fell so thick it coated even our eyelashes.

Prague’s Old Town, Astronomical Clock, Tyn Church, and Christmas markets

The Christmas market stalls set up in Old Town Square sell Prague ham from a pig roasting on an open spit, Trdelnik from roasting bars turned above a fire, mulled wine from barrels, and handicraft items. A giant Christmas tree stands near the monument of Jan Hus, overlooking it all. An evening in Old Town Square during Christmastime is an experience not soon forgotten. And on a snowy evening, Prague’s Old Town Square is pure fairy tale.

Prague’s Old Town Christmas Markets

For you: Where is your favorite place to experience a snowy evening? Have you been to Prague in the wintertime? What were your impressions?

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