Holiday Traditions of Czech Republic

"Merry Christmas"

Holiday Traditions in the Czech Republic

In the Czech Republic, Christmas, known as Vánoce, is a cherished celebration filled with unique customs and a deep sense of tradition. The main festivities take place on Christmas Eve, or Štědrý večer, which translates to “Generous Evening.” Unlike in many other countries, the focus of the holiday is on December 24th, when families come together to enjoy a special meal and exchange gifts.

Fasting and the Traditional Christmas Eve Meal

On Christmas Eve, many Czechs observe the tradition of fasting throughout the day, believing that those who fast will see the “golden piglet” — a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The fast is broken with a festive dinner in the evening, where families gather around the table to enjoy the traditional meal of fried carp and potato salad. Carp, a fish that is commonly found in the rivers and lakes of Central Europe, is the centerpiece of the meal. It is often purchased fresh and kept alive in the bathtub until it is time to prepare it for dinner.

Alongside the carp, a delicious potato salad made with potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and mayonnaise is served, accompanied by special Christmas cookies called vánoční cukroví. These cookies come in various shapes and flavors, often decorated with icing and sprinkled with nuts or powdered sugar, adding a sweet touch to the meal.

Ježíšek – The Czech Gift-Bringer

In the Czech tradition, it is not Santa Claus who brings gifts, but rather Baby Jesus, known as Ježíšek. After the Christmas Eve dinner, a bell is rung to signal that Ježíšek has come and gone, leaving presents underneath the Christmas tree. The bell is usually rung secretly by a family member, adding an element of magic and surprise for the children. The family then gathers around the tree to open gifts and enjoy each other’s company.

Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day

The Christmas celebrations continue on December 25th, known as první vánoční svátek (the First Christmas Holiday), and December 26th, known as druhý vánoční svátek (the Second Christmas Holiday). These days are typically spent visiting extended family and friends, sharing more meals, and reflecting on the blessings of the past year. It is a time for relaxation, togetherness, and enjoying the holiday spirit.

Other Czech Christmas Traditions

Czechs have many other charming holiday customs that add to the festive atmosphere. One popular tradition is the practice of pouring molten lead or wax into cold water to interpret the shapes that form, as a way of predicting the future. Another tradition is the floating of walnut shell boats with small candles inside, which are set adrift in a bowl of water. The way the boats move is said to indicate what the coming year holds for each family member.

The Christmas season in the Czech Republic is a time of joy, family, and tradition. From the special meal on Christmas Eve to the gathering of loved ones over the following days, Czechs celebrate the holiday with warmth and a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage.

Holiday Traditions in Czech Republic

Video by Lifey

Traditional Czech Holiday Recipes

During the holiday season, Czech families come together to prepare and enjoy a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary traditions. These recipes, often passed down through generations, are an essential part of the festive celebrations. Here are a few authentic Czech dishes that are typically made during the holiday season:

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1. Vánoční Cukroví (Czech Christmas Cookies)

Vánoční Cukroví are traditional Czech Christmas cookies that come in a variety of shapes and flavors. They are beautifully decorated with icing, nuts, or jam, and are an indispensable part of the Czech holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup ground walnuts or almonds (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Jam, melted chocolate, or powdered sugar (for filling and decoration)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the softened butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. If using, fold in the ground walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes such as stars, hearts, or Christmas trees.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Decorate with jam, melted chocolate, or a dusting of powdered sugar as desired.
9. Store in an airtight container and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season.

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2. Bramborový Salát (Czech Potato Salad)

Bramborový Salát is a traditional Czech potato salad that is often served as a side dish to the main course of fried carp on Christmas Eve. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium potatoes, boiled and peeled
• 2 large carrots, boiled and chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 3 pickles, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Dice the boiled potatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. Add the chopped carrots, peas, hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and onion to the potatoes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve chilled as a side dish or light meal.

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3. Smažený Kapr (Fried Carp)

Smažený Kapr is the centerpiece of the traditional Czech Christmas Eve dinner. This dish features crispy, golden-brown fried carp, served with potato salad. Preparing carp is a long-standing holiday tradition in the Czech Republic.

Ingredients:

• 4 fillets of carp
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Season the carp fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
3. Coat each fillet in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and then dredge in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the carp fillets in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the fried carp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with a wedge of lemon and a side of potato salad.

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4. Vánočka (Czech Christmas Bread)

Vánočka is a traditional Czech Christmas bread, similar to brioche. It’s a braided sweet bread often enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert during the holiday season, served with butter and jam or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried currants
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
4. Fold in the raisins or dried currants and slivered almonds (if using).
5. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts.
7. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together to form a loaf. Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Let the Vánočka cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. Slice and serve with butter or jam.

These traditional Czech recipes bring the flavors and warmth of a Czech Christmas celebration to your home. Enjoy preparing and sharing these dishes with your loved ones during the holiday season!

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