Our Experience: Pilsen Christmas Market
Small but cute! It was very unexpected. The market is centered around a beautiful 45 foot tall fir tree, decked out in bright twinkling lights. The stalls were cute, original, well decorated, and had great pricing.
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As you journey through Czechia, the scenery transitions between dense forests and shadowy buildings. Every so often, a delightful town emerges, and Pilsen is one of those treasures. The town’s vividly painted buildings create a stunning contrast against the muted backdrop, immediately catching your eye. Cobblestone streets weave through the area, often tracing rivers adorned with picturesque bridges. Along these streets, you’ll find an array of distinctive shops and enticing restaurants that beckon exploration. Pilsen is undoubtedly a destination I’m eager to revisit and delve into even further!
We discovered some exciting new food options at the market, starting with the chudi rytiri. This treat had a sweet dough or pancake exterior and a filling that combined sweetness with a slightly sour custard-like texture, resembling sour cream or yogurt. The unique contrast of flavors made it a delightful experience.
Next, we sampled the langos, a fried flatbread generously topped with garlic, ketchup, and cheese. This dish was warm, flavorful, and incredibly garlicky—perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Although the market didn’t offer souvenir mugs, we still enjoyed a festive drink. We tried the horke bombardino, an eggnog-like beverage made with brandy. Unlike the traditional eggnog we’re familiar with in the U.S., this version had a richer, eggy flavor that we found absolutely delicious.
This Christmas market stands out for its emphasis on handmade goods. Almost every vendor sits behind their tables actively crafting items. We were captivated by a woman using a giant loom to create beautiful blankets right before our eyes. Watching her work was mesmerizing, and if we had been heading straight home, I would have bought one for every family member!
For children, the market offers plenty of fun, including a charming carousel and a ferris wheel. The nativity scene also caught everyone’s attention, becoming a clear favorite. It was beautifully arranged and provided plenty to admire.
Don’t miss ringing the wooden bell! Climb up the steps to a wooden platform, make a wish, and ring the bell at the top. Tradition says your wish will come true, making it a must-do experience at this festive market.
Don’t forget to look out for the Spejbl and Hurvínek puppet statues! Puppetry in Pilsen is a local pastime favorite. This comedic duo of puppets was found in the 1920s, and have been a beloved pair ever since. There is also a Puppet Museum that is worth checking out!
I don’t think we would go out of our way to visit the Pilsen Christmas Market again but if we ever happen to be in the area, we would defintely stop by. The Christmas Market was great, but what I would want to see more of is the town. The people we encountered were all very friendly, the food was delicious, and the town was beautiful.
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