Czech Republic — Events
Prague Christmas Markets
November 27, 2011 - December 23, 2011
Always a big draw, the Prague Christmas Markets brim with an abundance of traditional food and gifts, and plenty to entertain kids of all ages. Held in Wenceslas Square, Havelska Street and Namesti Republiky, the most impressive is probably the one held in the Old Town Square, which transforms into a vast winter wonderland featuring an ice rink and a 27m (90ft) Christmas tree complete with carol singers.
St Nicholas's Eve
December 5, 2011
Santa was modeled, as we know, on the earlier St Nicholas. On the eve of the saint’s day (known locally as ‘Little Christmas’), reincarnations of the jolly fellow roll through the streets of Prague handing out sweets to kids and dropping into bars for a beer. Each is accompanied by an angel or devil, representing reward and punishments, while St Nicholas himself signifies confession. Make friends with an angel for a treat - the devil doles out coal.
Paleni Cardojenic (Witches' Night)
April 30, 2012
Paleni Cardojenic, Prague’s answer to Halloween, marks the last night of winter, when the supernatural powers of the forces of evil are at their peak. This is the eve of Saint Phillip and Saint Jacob’s Day, when people once believed that flocks of witches were flying in the air, intent on bringing misfortune. Although taken a little less seriously these days, bonfires piled with effigies are still burned on the hills around the town to ward them away.
Prague Spring International Music Festival
May 12, 2012 - June 4, 2012
The Prague Spring International Music Festival is one of the city’s biggest events, and a showcase for outstanding classical artists, symphony orchestras and chamber music ensembles from around the world. Opera, theater and special events are included in the festival itinerary, while the Prague Spring also prides itself on developing young talent with a competition held each year in various instrumental sections.
Czech Beer Festival
May 12, 2012 - May 28, 2012
Since its inception in 2007, this festival has gone from strength to strength, celebrating something the Czechs make best: beer. Here you’ll find over 70 brands to choose from, in separate beer tents offering their own brews and entertainment. Large producers and small microbreweries all pitch up to contribute the key liquid ingredient in a fortnight full of live bands and a proper party atmosphere.
Sonisphere
June 11, 2012
Europe’s premiere touring rock and metal festival now comes to Prague annually for two days of grinding guitars and international mashing. Locally, Sonisphere has become one of Prague’s most popular and anticipated music events, and has already seen mighty metal bands such as Metallica and Slayer shaking the city walls.
