The charming old tradition of Mikulas involves St. Nicholas, an Angel and a Devil. All three wear costumes; St. Nicholas is dressed a little like Santa Claus. Together they wander the Old Town Square and other central Prague areas, asking all children if they have been good during the year.
Most kids say yes and sing a song or recite a short poem to St. Nicholas. They are then rewarded with sweets, candies, or other treats. But if they say no...!
Bad kids are put in the Devil's sack and taken to hell. They will also only get a sack of potatoes or coal instead of candy. Small children are usually afraid of the Devil and thus can be really very frightened when they see St Nicholas and his entourage. In a Czech home, children get a St. Nicholas gift from their parents and other relatives. The gift, which is usually sweets or chocolates, may be hidden in the children's room, which the children then have to find.
The day of St. Nicholas reminds everyone that Christmas time is drawing close.
In Prague, Mikulas is best experienced in the Old Town Square around late afternoon/early evening.
At the time of Mikulas, the Christmas markets are in the Old Town Square. Tourists can enjoy some of the hot food & drink on offer at the wooden huts whilst observing this interesting Czech tradition.
Prague's Christmas Markets - 2004
Christmas markets in Prague's Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square sparkle with Christmas lights and festive cheer. Hot wine, warm food and hand crafted goods provide a delightful introduction to a traditional Czech Xmas.
Christmas in Prague is a special time of year. A key ingredient in the local Czech festive magic is the "Vanocni trh" or Christmas markets. More than just a place to pick up those last minute presents, the Prague Christmas markets are a great place to come together and share some holiday spirit. Wenceslas Square, the Old Town Square, Namesti Republiky & Havelske Trziste open their markets on the 4th December 2004 and most will run through to Three Kings Day, the end of the 12 days of Christmas.
The Prague Christmas markets consist of rows of brightly decorated wooden huts, selling czech handicrafts, hot sausages and warm drinks; outdoor christmas shopping is much easier with a cup of hot wine, svarene vino, in your hand!
Great stocking stuffers can be found here, such as Czech glass, wooden toys, candles, Christmas tree ornaments and local hand-made jewellery. Finally, there are the puppets, always the puppets.....!
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