What will the Advent markets be like in Košice this year? Program and important information in one place

Košice’s beloved Christmas markets are gearing up to spread holiday cheer with a delightful array of wintertime experiences.

Get ready for a packed schedule of events that will entertain all ages, alongside a tempting selection of unique crafts and delicious treats at the market stalls.

There’s truly something for everyone, making this a Christmas market visit you won’t forget!

Košice Fairy-Tale Christmas

Košice hosts the most attractive and largest Christmas markets in Eastern Slovakia. The markets take place in the pedestrian zone on Hlavná Street and start in early December.

The official opening and lighting of the Christmas tree is scheduled for December 5 every year.

Along with traditional foods and beverages, visitors can enjoy cultural events including music concerts and theater plays.

When and where will it all take place?

For over 25 years, the Košice Fairy-Tale Christmas has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its enchanting blend of festive cheer and cultural delights. In the heart of the city, with a magical Christmas tree as a backdrop, you can enjoy festive concerts, the mayor’s punch, and a rich cultural program on the stage in front of the Immaculata.

Beyond the main stage, the spirit of Christmas permeates the city. Discover the magic of Bethlehem and embrace the Advent season with special activities at the Lower Gate. Stroll through the City Park, adorned with festive decorations that sparkle and shine. And of course, the little ones will be entertained with delightful activities designed just for them.

What can you expect to find at the Christmas markets?

A rich program full of carols, theater performances, and concerts will brighten the time before Christmas.

The Kollár family will perform in the Historic Town Hall. The Kollár Family is a Slovak musical group known for playing and composing folk songs closely tied to eastern Slovakia’s folklore. Their unique approach has made Slovak folk music more accessible and enjoyable even to those who may not have been interested in this genre before.

The Fairyland of CENCULOVO is a popular attraction located in the park behind the main stage. It offers a large creative workshop with competitions, games, and activities featuring well-known fairy-tale characters.

Visitors to the market will have the opportunity to witness the intricate process of ice sculpture carving, where talented artists will skillfully craft beautiful sculptures out of ice.

At the Lower Gate, attendees can look forward to a captivating theatrical performance retelling the biblical story of the birth of Jesus. The performance will also feature a stunningly carved nativity scene, adding to the visual spectacle.

During the previous year, the Christmas tree located on Hlavná ulica stood as one of the largest and most exquisitely adorned trees in Slovakia. It was adorned with a 2,000-meter-long (around 6500 feet) light chain, boasting nearly 13,000 LED lights that illuminated the surroundings with a captivating glow.

It will be interesting to see if this local record will be surpassed this year, as visitors eagerly anticipate this year’s festive display.

See what it looks like at the Christmas market in Košice:

Vianočné trhy Košice 2023

Košice’s Fairy Tale Christmas: More Than Just Decorations

This Christmas, Košice is set to shine, offering more than just the usual holiday lights and decorations.

The city is going all out to create a truly magical atmosphere! Imagine a massive Advent wreath encircling the bell near the Urban Tower, casting a warm glow on the square.

The beloved light fish installation will once again dance in the park’s fountain, while beautifully decorated trees light up the surroundings.

A new addition this year is a charming deer family sculpture near the fountain at Michael’s chapel, adding another touch of Christmas magic.

As you stroll through the park, you’ll be greeted by two giant star-shaped gates towering over the park – these unique designs were created exclusively for the city and can’t be found anywhere else! Even the hanging snowflakes on Hlavná ulica will carry this special design, tying the whole city together in a festive theme.

Let yourself be enchanted by the snowy Košice

Zima v Košiciach

Don’t you think Košice is absolutely worth a visit?

If you decide to go, we’d love to hear from you in the comments about how much you enjoyed the city and its atmosphere!