Christmas markets instantly bring to mind gorgeous decorations, twinkling fairy lights, the aroma of mulled wine and delicious treats. This year in Ostrava will be no different. In this article, you’ll find a complete guide to the Christmas markets Ostrava has to offer – from the grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony to locations, programme highlights and opening hours.
Where to stay
If you’re planning to spend more than a day in Ostrava, it’s worth booking accommodation close to the city centre:
You can also browse a wider selection of hotels and apartments on Booking.com.
Christmas Markets Ostrava: Tree Lighting
The ceremonial Christmas tree lighting is one of the biggest highlights of the Ostrava Christmas markets. This year it takes place on Saturday 22 November at Masaryk Square (Masarykovo náměstí) from 6 pm. The evening features a packed programme of live music and performances, including the band Bombarďák and the legendary Czech musician Jaroslav Uhlíř with his band.
TIP: Organised trips to Czech Christmas markets are available too. You can find one on the travel portal Invia.
Christmas Markets Ostrava: When and Where
The Christmas markets in Ostrava typically kick off at the end of November and run right through to New Year’s Day. This year they take place from 22 November 2025 to 1 January 2026.
The markets are spread across several locations:
- Masaryk Square (Masarykovo náměstí),
- Prokeš Square (Prokešovo náměstí),
- Jirásek Square (Jiráskovo náměstí),
- Dr. Edvard Beneš Square (Náměstí Dr. Edvarda Beneše).
You might also enjoy: Christmas Markets in Brno
Masaryk Square
Masaryk Square is the main hub of the Christmas markets in Ostrava. Here you’ll find a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, stalls selling ornaments, souvenirs and all manner of festive food and drink.
Beyond the market stalls, there’s a lively cultural programme taking place on Masaryk Square almost every day. Visitors can look forward to live concerts spanning various genres, theatre performances and shows put on by local organisations, community groups and children. You can find the full programme HERE.
Prokeš Square
Prokeš Square, just a stone’s throw from the City Hall, hosts a quieter section of the Christmas markets. It often features a cultural programme of concerts and theatre performances, so if you’re a fan of music and the arts, this is definitely worth a visit.
This year you can also look forward to a festive illumination of the City Hall building and the New Town Hall tower. The lighting display reflects the magic of Advent and features the visual identity of Ostrava Christmas. There’s also an “OSTRAVA!!!” photo point where you can snap a memorable picture. On top of that, a popular carol-singing event with a rich programme takes place here on Wednesday 11 December.
Jirásek Square
Another stop on the Christmas market trail is Jirásek Square, also known as the children’s stage. The programme includes a variety of theatre performances and educational activities for kids. Little ones can also enjoy a carousel and a special Christmas post office where they can send letters to Baby Jesus (the Czech equivalent of Santa Claus).
Dr. Edvard Beneš Square
At Dr. Edvard Beneš Square you’ll find the markets’ biggest attraction – a Christmas ice rink. It will be open from 29 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, daily from 10 am to 8 pm with short breaks for ice resurfacing. Admission is free, and you can hire skating equipment or use a skate-sharpening service on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Christmas tree lighting at Masaryk Square?
This year the Christmas tree in Ostrava will be lit on Saturday 22 November from 6 pm.
Where are the Christmas markets in Ostrava?
The main Christmas market locations are Masaryk Square, Prokeš Square, Jirásek Square and Dr. Edvard Beneš Square.
What attractions are there for children?
There’s a packed programme for kids, including a carousel, craft workshops and a nativity scene with live animals at Masaryk Square.
When are the Christmas markets in Ostrava?
The Christmas markets in Ostrava run from 29 November 2025 to 1 January 2026.
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