Prague Christmas Markets Grandly Opened; Police Increase Patrols to Maintain Safety

As December arrives, Prague's Christmas markets in the Czech capital are gradually opening, attracting large crowds. To ensure safety, police have increased patrols, with some patrol units equipped with long guns and wearing bulletproof gear. Police emphasize that this is a precautionary measure and that there are currently no specific threats.

According to a report by Central News Agency, major Christmas markets at Prague's Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square draw huge crowds every year, with a visible police presence at the scene.

Czech police are focusing on so-called "soft targets"—places that attract large crowds but lack permanent protection, such as cultural, commercial, and sports venues—deploying officers equipped with weapons.

Many European cities increase security measures during winter markets, reflecting public safety concerns over large festive gatherings, including armed patrols and entrance controls to avoid overcrowding.

The Christmas market at Prague's Old Town Square has been repeatedly rated as one of the most beautiful markets in the world. CNN Travel, USA Today, and the UK's "The Times" have all reported and praised it. Due to its high profile, the market is always packed during the Christmas season.

Within the market, there are many traditional food stalls, such as chimney cakes, sausages, and mulled wine. Visitors can also buy themed textiles, wooden toys, or hand-blown glass ornaments, and there are live music performances on site.

A vendor selling fried sausages and Hungarian pancakes shared that his main customers are Prague residents and tourists, and he most often hears English and German spoken by visitors.

A tourist from Norway said that visiting the Old Town Square’s Christmas market was the main reason for his trip to Prague. "Prices here are half of what they are in Oslo."