New Year & Christmas in Lviv: Market, Ice Rinks & Festivities
Lviv in winter is a magic of its own. A city that already looks like a fairy tale dresses up in lights in December, smells of mulled wine and gingerbread, and fills its squares with carols. Here's everything worth seeing and doing during the holidays.
The Christmas Market
Traditionally, Christmas market stalls appear in the center — on Rynok Square and Svobody Avenue: mulled wine, gingerbread, festive treats and souvenirs. The market's location and format can change from year to year, so check the city's holiday programme before you go.
The Main Tree & the Lights
The city's main Christmas tree goes up by the Lviv National Opera (prosp. Svobody, 28) — a traditional spot for photos and meetups. In the evening the center is decorated with festive lights. Just an evening stroll downtown is already a celebration.
Ice Rinks
In winter Lviv has ice rinks — both outdoor and indoor. Skating is one of the city's most pleasant winter rituals; find addresses in the places catalog.
Nativity Scenes, Carols & St. Nicholas
Lviv carefully keeps its traditions:
- St. Nicholas Day (December 6) — especially loved by children: gifts, shows, market fun;
- nativity scenes and carolers in the streets during the Christmas days;
- festive concerts of sacred and folk music in churches and halls.
More family ideas are in our things to do with kids in Lviv guide.
Festive Pubs & Mulled Wine
The best way to warm up is in Lviv's atmospheric knaipas: mulled wine, hot chocolate, a holiday menu. What exactly to try is in what to eat in Lviv.
Gift Shopping
Lviv is the perfect city for Christmas gifts: handmade chocolate and pralines, local coffee, ceramics, jewelry and market souvenirs. It all pairs easily with a walk downtown (a route is in our what to see in Lviv in one day guide).
New Year's Eve
The format of New Year celebrations differs every year: in wartime there are restrictions on mass events and a curfew. So check the concert and event listings in the events section before you go.
Tips for Visitors
- Book accommodation early — demand is high over the New Year and Christmas holidays.
- Dress warmly — most celebrations are outdoors.
- Cash comes in handy at the market.
- Confirm the dates — some celebrations center on Christmas (Dec 25); check the programme and events in the events section.
Winter Lviv is mulled wine on a frosty Rynok, skates under the evening lights and carols in the old town. Here the holiday is felt at every step.