Christmas tree in Hviezdosalvovo Square, Bratislava (source: TASR)
A Christmas tree has been standing in Bratislava for some time already, and on November 24, the seasonal market in the Main Square, lasting until December 22, will open. The programme, organised by the city council, starts at 17:00 and includes the Vertigo acrobatic group, the CreDance group, and the already well-renowned world-music group Banda. The next day, famous jazzman Peter Lipa and his band will play, and on November 26, young Slovak band Iconito will perform.
Every day, including work-days, there will be performances on the Main Square – elementary art schools and folklore ensembles from all over the country performing carols will perform alongside amateur and professional troupes of adults, ethnic bands and pop stars.
The kiosks in the Main Square will mostly offer local delicacies and Christmas meals, as well as punch, mulled wine and the local winter drink, hriatô (strong spirit mixed with water, caramel, lard and spices, served hot). There will also be stands selling traditional, seasonal souvenirs and charitable products.
Rival market in Hviezdoslavovo Square
Only a few metres away, in the oblong Hviezdoslavovo Square, a rival Christmas market, organised by the Bratislava borough of Old Town will open on November 24 (starting at 18:00). There, the programme will involve actors from the Nová Scéna theatre. There will also be concerts and other cultural events on Thursdays through Sundays. Each Thursday, students of local schools will sing or play, while on Fridays until Sunday, there will be other types of concerts.
Each Sunday, an Advent candle on a big-size Advent wreath with be lit while the Old Town mayor and religious dignitaries are in attendance. Kiosks will offer basic commodities.
A special addition to the market is the artificial ice rink located at the front (close to the Slovak National Theatre) of the square, open for public use.
The Hviezdoslavovo Square market lasts until December 22 as well.
