7 unique Christmas gifts from Prague and the Czech Republic

An international survey by ING Bank a couple years back suggested that Czechs are among the most practical gift givers in Europe. Whether you choose to stick to tradition or splurge on something less functional and more fun for your dear ones is up to you — but these tips for last-minute gifts are sure to please lovers of all things Czech (or work just fine as a personal indulgence)!

An eco-conscious treat for the feet

Czech-made Bohempia hemp sneakers and hemp boots are strong, comfortable, breathable, flexible and light-weight. Intended to keep feet dry and odor free, their range of high-tops, plimsolls, and other rainbow-bright styles is complemented with bags, belts, and hemp-based accessories (the company recently closed a successful HitHit campaign that will fund production of a barefoot shoe). Gift vouchers are available with free shipping is being offered this week or visit the Karlín show room.

A print with purpose

Czech artist and illustrator Eliška Podzimková’s quirky animations of urban landscapes from New York to Prague have made her a worldwide social-media phenomenon. What her admirers may not know is that the Prague-native was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 16. Her recently launched Plešouni project aims to raise funds for the production of an illustrated booklet designed to help childhood oncology patients prepare for treatment. Podzimkova’s original signed cards and prints are now on sale at Hamleys toy store with proceeds going toward the project.

A cup of culture

Just in time for Christmas, the National Theatre has released a tribute to its Opera company, a limited-edition series of porcelain demitasse coffee cups, etched with real gold-leaf print and designed by Czech artists Lenka Sárová Malíská. The National Theatre’s e-shop also stocks posters, fun souvenirs, and glorious calendars; the 2019 edition features photos by Younsik Kim, Korean demi-solist for ND Ballet, who captures dancers in the magnificent interiors of the National Theater historic building and the Museum of Decorative Arts.

A naughty night out

The Prague Burlesque is celebrating 10 years in the business of bawdiness with a completely new program, Hollywood Babylon, which promises extraordinary costumes, fantastic music, and incredible stage designs. Buy a VIP voucher for a performance and catch principal Sonny Vargas alongside sultry stars Miss Cool Cat, Lady Mousellyca, and Yazz, performing every Friday in the stylish surrounds of Vinohrady’s First Republic era Royal Theatre.

A little holiday cheer in a beer

Warm woolen mittens and crisp apple strudel…beer? Not exactly how the song goes but this Imperial Apple & Cinnamon Brown Ale from Pivovar Chroust is sure to be one of any beer lovers favorite things this holiday season. On sale every Wednesday, along with their other easy-drinking and humorously labeled beers (Coco Dancer, Nitro Coffee Stout), at the Jiřák advent market.

A scratch-off surprise

Track your adventures in the Czech lands with a Deluxe Gold Map featuring not only the nineteen largest cities of the Czech Republic but attractions like museums, caves, spas, peaks, castles, and chateaus. The 90 x 60 cm paper-laminated foil map, handmade in Slovakia, can be scratched to reveal locations explored and borders crossed, a true treat for cartography geeks. Order here.

A sweet stocking stuffer

Lumon custom lollipops are handmade by Czech small-batch confectioners who pack herbs, flowers, fruit, marzipan, and edible paper into one gorgeous lolly that’s almost too beautiful to eat. A choice of twenty natural flavors can be customized with photos or text while festive Christmas-themed motifs make these sweets the perfect thing to slip into your favorite foodie’s stocking. For last-minute shoppers Lumon will have a stand at Lemarket from December 20-22. Or find them online here.