Thousands Celebrate NYE in Prague as Firefighters Respond to Over 30 Incidents

The historic center of Prague came alive with New Year celebrations as thousands of people gathered to welcome 2025.

Old Town Square and parts of Wenceslas Square were the main hotspots, despite ongoing construction limiting access in certain areas.

While the atmosphere was festive, emergency services were on high alert, responding to fires and minor injuries throughout the night.

Crowds Fill Old Town Square Amid Construction Challenges

In the evening, Old Town Square saw a steady influx of tourists. The usual New Year hub, Wenceslas Square, was less crowded this year due to construction work in its upper section, which limited pedestrian movement and discouraged large gatherings.

Security forces noted a higher number of visitors at Old Town Square compared to previous years.

According to Prague City Tourism, approximately 100,000 tourists arrived in the city for the celebrations, a slight increase from last year’s 90,000. Visitors from countries such as the UK, Germany, Italy, Russia, and Ukraine filled the streets, joined later by locals braving the cold for the festivities.

Emergency Services Handle Dozens of Incidents

Emergency responders were kept busy throughout the night. Firefighters attended eight fires by 10 p.m., mostly involving garbage bins and vegetation. A more serious incident occurred on Spálená Street, where fireworks ignited objects on a balcony. By 2 a.m., the total number of interventions had risen to 32.

To manage potential injuries from fireworks and alcohol, Prague’s Medical Rescue Service deployed extra resources, including the Golem rescue vehicle at Old Town Square. Equipped with 12 beds, the unit treated minor injuries and cases of excessive alcohol consumption. By the end of the night, 25 individuals had received medical attention, four of whom suffered injuries related to fireworks.

Security Measures Tightened Across Prague

With thousands of visitors flocking to the city, security was a top priority. Police officers, some armed with long guns, patrolled key areas, including Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and surrounding streets. Increased numbers of officers also monitored soft targets such as train stations, airports, and shopping malls.

As a precaution, authorities temporarily closed parts of Smetanovo nábřeží and Křižovnická streets, diverting tram line 93. The Karlovy lázně and Staroměstská tram stops were also suspended for the evening.

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