Christmas in the heart of Brno
Brno’s Christmas celebrations spread through the historic city centre, with each location offering a slightly different atmosphere. Freedom Square is the lively heart of the festivities, with the city’s Christmas tree, daily entertainment, food and drinks. The tree has a special place in Czech Christmas history: in 1924, Brno became the first city in the country to put up a public Christmas tree on its main square. The tradition continues today, with the tree remaining one of the symbols of Brno Christmas. The rich daily music programme at the Freedom Square fits well into the concept of UNESCO awards: the music activities and the extraordinary diversity of music genres associated with the city have been recognised by UNESCO, and Brno has been awarded the title of ‘Creative City of Music’.
Nearby Dominican Square offers a more intimate setting, dominated by Halouzek´s Nativity Scene, a monumental wooden Christmas scene with life-size figures. It will be set aside for families, children, and all fans of good food. Children can enjoy small petting zoo and adults will have the opportunity to taste both local and international cuisines. At Cabbage Market, festive stalls surround the historic Parnas Fountain, while the Old Town Hall courtyard hosts Gourmet Christmas, focusing on food and drink. Moravian Square adds a more playful side to the celebrations, with a Ferris wheel and seasonal ice rink. The different locations are all within easy walking distance, making it easy to explore Brno’s Christmas atmosphere on foot.
More than Christmas markets
There is plenty to discover beyond the stalls. Take a ride on the Christmas Ferris wheel or go ice skating at Moravian Square, hop on the Christmas tram, or follow the light trail along Bašty Street after dark. For a panoramic view of festive Brno, climb the tower of the Old Town Hall.
Traditional Christmas customs are complemented by contemporary experiences such as videomapping and December Design Days, where Czech designers and artists present original gifts and creative products. Brno also creates a new collection of original Christmas mugs each year, designed by local artists.
Food is another highlight, from traditional Czech Christmas treats and mulled wine to Turbomošt, Brno’s distinctive hot apple drink with spices and apple brandy.
Brno was also the first city in Czechia to introduce a city-wide returnable cup system at its Christmas markets. Visitors can return their cups for a deposit or donate it to charity through the Daruj Kelímek project.
Christmas markets in Brno at a glance
27 November–23 December 2026
Freedom Square (náměstí Svobody) – main Christmas market
Dominican Square (Dominikánské náměstí) – Christmas market and Halouzek Nativity Scene
Old Town Hall Courtyard – Gourmet Christmas
13 November - 31 December 2026
Cabbage Market (Zelný trh) – Christmas market with crafts, food and gifts
Moravian Square (Moravské náměstí) – Christmas attractions, Ferris wheel and ice rink
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