The name “Prague Spring” is usually understood as a certain period of social life in Czechoslovakia. Then, in 1948, the country tried to break out of the “brotherly” embrace of Big Brother - the Soviet Union. This is also the name of the music festival, which has been held annually in the capital of the Czech Republic since 1946. And we, wandering through the narrow streets of the ancient city, will be imbued with the freedom-loving spirit of this people, its harmony and cheerfulness. Spring Prague delights tourists not only with a music festival, which is dedicated to the anniversary of the composer Smetana (May 12). Walpurgis Night and uprisings, Annunciation and Easter are secular holidays mixed with religious ones. May is the richest month for folk festivals. In addition to the traditional Days of Workers' Solidarity and Victory, a gypsy festival is held in Prague at the beginning of the month.

Three reasons why you should visit Prague in May

We have already mentioned the first reason - we have an abundance of weekends (from which you can tailor a short vacation for yourself) and many interesting events in the Czech capital. The second reason is the weather. May in Prague is a truly summer month. Outdoor cafes and restaurants. The parks are full of fragrant flowers. It’s long, and even after sunset it’s nice to stroll along the ancient streets on a warm evening. And the third reason, the most important: the city is just preparing for the opening of the tourist season; there are no summer crowds on the streets yet, which prevents you from taking a high-quality photo of local attractions. Prague in May is not yet as crowded as it is in July. True, the first ten days of the month is considered the “high season,” but then the flow of tourists begins to decline. You can reduce the cost of a May Day trip to the capital of the Czech Republic by booking hotels early or, conversely, by purchasing an air ticket the day before departure.

Weather in Prague in May

What things to take with you when going here at the end of spring? The Czech Republic is not subtropical, but the winters there are milder than ours, and therefore spring comes earlier. During the day, even at the beginning of the month, the temperature remains at +20 degrees. As elsewhere in the temperate climate zone, May is the time of thunderstorms. They don't fit an umbrella or even a raincoat. But the showers pass quickly, giving freshness to the air. The temperature in Prague in May is very comfortable - not hot, but not cold either. Of course, there are also anomalies, such as the very rainy spring of 2013, when there were floods in the Czech Republic, and throughout Central Europe. For footwear, we recommend bringing sneakers or comfortable shoes with low soles, because the historical center of Prague is covered with paving stones that can break off your heels. Just in case, take a warm sweater, windbreaker or raincoat. But in any case, your vacation will not be ruined due to the weather.

Are you planning to use the long weekend at the beginning of the month to visit the capital of the Czech Republic? Although this vacation option cannot be called budget (since many compatriots will go on the trip with you), a colorful parade and other interesting events await you. The May Day demonstration in Prague takes place without unnecessary officialdom. No one is forced to attend the voluntary event, so there is a real holiday atmosphere in the air. Workers' solidarity in the afternoon is expressed in noisy gatherings on the summer terraces of cafes over a glass of beer. Prague delights tourists with its museums during the May holidays. For example, in 2014 free admission was announced at Prague Castle. Usually a ticket there is not cheap. But on the third of May, not only the main exhibition will be open to everyone, but also those rooms that are closed to tourists at other times. You have a wonderful opportunity to see the Rudolf Gallery, the Habsburg Salon, walk through the Spanish, Rotmayer, Throne, Brozhikov Halls, and get into the southern wing of the New Palace. So take advantage of this chance: free excursions on this day will be held from 9.00 to 16.30.

Walpurgis Night

The eve of May 1 in the Western Christian tradition is considered a time of rampage of evil spirits. To drive it off the face of the earth, the Czechs organize colorful rituals. The fun continues all night from April 30 to May 1. The culmination of the holiday is the burning of an effigy of a sorcerer - a collective image of all evil. It is said that "Walpurgisnacht" (Night of the Witches' Sabbath) came to the Czech Republic from Germany, but researchers believe that the custom of "Paleni Enchantress" has pre-Christian roots. Prague in May offers the opportunity to admire other sights. For example, the no less colorful gypsy festival.

What to do in spring Prague

First of all, buy a so-called tourist card. It makes it possible not only to save on public transport, but also to get to the capital’s museums at a discount, or even for free. So, in May? We recommend starting with a sightseeing tour of the city. If you arrived in the capital of the Czech Republic on your own, go to any travel agency and purchase this bus and walking tour. Don't like to follow a guide in an organized manner? Then there is another option. From the end of March, a special tram begins running around Prague. It's called "Number 91" or "Nostalgic". For 25 crowns (children and pensioners are asked for 10 each) you can take a ride through all the important places in the city. The tram departs every hour from noon to six in the evening from Vozovna Stresovice.

Prague on foot

If the weather is good, you're wearing comfortable shoes, and you don't mind walking, go for a walk around the historic city center. Prague in May - reviews say this unanimously - is not at all filled with tourists. At least you'll be able to take pictures of Old Town Square without the crowd in the frame. Almost all excursions begin from this place - the heart of the city. After all, here is the Orloj clock, which has become a kind of calling card of Prague. Also pay attention to the monument to Jan Hus, a famous humanist and religious figure in the Czech Republic. From Old Town Square you can head towards Charles Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, Golden Street or simply delve into the labyrinth of the medieval city. At any time, whether thirst or hunger strikes you, numerous characteristic pubs and cafes with summer terraces are at your service.

Parks of Prague

Throughout the Northern Hemisphere, May is the time of the riot of spring. Don’t forget about this in the capital of the Czech Republic. To enjoy cherry blossoms and the scents of lilac and jasmine, head to Petřín. Despite the fact that this hill is listed as a “Must see” on all tourist maps, there are very few people here. This is for the best. From the Petřín observation deck, all of Prague in May is at a glance. If you're nervous about climbing up on foot, you can take a cable car to the top of the hill. If you come to Prague with a friend of your heart, be sure to find the monument to Karl Gink Macha in Petřín. This poet in the Czech Republic, like Saint Valentine, is considered the patron saint of all lovers. And if you come on vacation with a child, be sure to visit the city zoo with him. And in any case, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the singing fountains. The play of light music and falling jets intersperses with performances of ballet troupes.

Prague in bad weather

The spring sun is capricious. Either it will show a ray of light, or it will hide behind a cloud. What can Prague give us in May? Reviews from tourists who visited the city in the rainy spring of 2013 are not at all sad. Head to the Strahov Monastery, which was built back in 1141. There is a library of ancient books and an art gallery here. Even on a rainy day, you can go to the Loretta Cathedral, whose treasury contains a collection of monstrances. Of greatest importance is the “Prague Sun”, decorated with six thousand diamonds. In 2014, throughout May, the Moscow collection of fossil dinosaur remains will be on display for the general public to see in the local Exhibition Hall “Vistaviste”. You can safely go on this excursion with your baby. The concept of Czech museums is such that it will be interesting for both old and young. Paris Street in Prague is a shopaholic's paradise: boutiques, branded clothing stores and an endless row of interesting shops.

Festivals

As we have already mentioned, Prague in May is rich in cultural events. Some festivals take place every year, while others happen every few years. What does May 2014 promise us? From the eighth of this month to the third of June, the sixty-sixth annual music festival “Prague Spring” will be held in Prague. This event delights citizens and tourists with concerts not only performed by reputable creative groups, such as the National Chamber Orchestra. Along with them, young musicians and young talents can demonstrate their talent. If a ticket to the Prague Spring costs 200 CZK, then you can participate in the Beer Festival completely free of charge. From May 15 to May 31, at Vistavista, lovers of the foamy drink will be simply fascinated by the choice that opens up to them. Czechs are big beer lovers. But they don’t forget to have a snack! Together with famous Czech breweries, Prague confectioners, butchers and chefs from leading restaurants in the capital will present their products.

Day trips out of town

There is a common belief that a country is best revealed not by its capital, but by its outback. The Czech Republic is no exception in this sense. Prague in May - the photos clearly demonstrate this - is beautiful, but even more beautiful are the small resort towns immersed in the lush greenery of flowering gardens and castles proudly rising on the rocks. If you are spending not a weekend, but a whole vacation in the capital of the Czech Republic, it would be a good idea to go to a travel agency and book a one-day excursion to Cesky Krumlov. A standard trip includes a visit to another castle along the way - Hluboka nad Vltavou. In 2014, the holiday season will officially open in the most famous Czech resort of Karlovy Vary. A busy holiday program will take place over several days. Following the solemn procession of Charles IV and his retinue, theatrical performances, a gastronomic festival and a fair are expected.

If you ask Czechs what kind of holiday is celebrated on May 1, older people will answer that it is Labor Day, and young people will most likely say that it is the day of love. Both will be right.

History of Labor Day

This holiday has pagan roots, few people know about this, but it is true. In Ancient Italy there was the goddess Maya, the patroness of the earth and fertility. It was in her honor that the last spring month of May was named, and on the first day of this month celebrations were held. During the Christianization of Europe, the church fought against this pagan holiday and by the end of the 18th century the holiday practically ceased to exist.

If we talk about the holiday that we are all familiar with, it all started at the end of the 19th century, when in 1886 workers in Chicago went on strike, they demanded a transition to an eight-hour working day, instead of the then existing 15-hour one. About 400,000 workers then took part in the strike. After a clash between workers and the police, 6 demonstrators died, which became the reason for new mass protests against brutal police actions. As a result, a bomb was detonated, killing 8 police officers, and the workers who organized the explosion were sentenced to death.
In 1889, the Paris Congress of the Second International proposed to celebrate the first of May as International Workers' Day, and it was decided to hold demonstrations with social demands every year.

In Russia May 1 "International Workers' Day" began to be celebrated in 1890. But the first meeting of workers was organized only the next year, illegally, outside the city. Only in 1897 May Days became political in nature and were accompanied by mass demonstrations. And already in 1917, May 1 was celebrated openly.
Over time, the holiday lost its political character and the last demonstration was held in 1990. In 1992, May 1 began to be called the “Holiday of Spring and Labor.”

In the Czech Republic, May 1 was associated with the Social Democratic Party, but the political situation in the country was changing, and at the same time the essence of the holiday was changing. With the arrival of the communists, May 1 became a public holiday, and all residents were obliged to take part in the demonstration. Those who could not participate for health reasons were required to bring a doctor's certificate confirming their illness. If there was a weekend on the eve of May 1, then people had to return from their dachas and participate in demonstrations. Many Czechs specially came at 5 o’clock in the morning in order to pass by the podium as early as possible, so to speak, to check in. Although, I think, not only the Czechs did this.

Now May 1 is a day off in the Czech Republic, but no one goes to demonstrations anymore, everyone is just relaxing and enjoying the warm spring weather. And thanks to the poem of the poet Karel Hynek Mahi ( Karla Hynka Machy) May 1 is also considered the day of love.

Byl pozdní večer – první máj –
večerní máj – byl lásky čas.
Hrdliččin zval ku lásce hlas,
kde borový zaváněl háj.
O lásce šeptal tichý mech;
květoucí strom lhal lásky žel,
svou lásku slavík růži pěl,
růžinu jevil vonný vzdech.
Jezero hladké v křovích stinných
zvučelo temně tajný bol,
břeh je objímal kol a kol;
a slurnce jasná světů jiných
bloudila blankytnymi pásky,
planoucí tam co slzy lásky.

All lovers should kiss under the cherry tree on this day. Otherwise, a woman without love can dry up. I think it’s a great spring tradition.

I was told that on May 1st on Petřín Hill in Prague you can meet many couples in love, firstly there are many flowering trees, including cherries, and secondly it is a good place for walking and relaxing.

May 1 is known to most citizens as a communist-era holiday that survived political changes and remains a red day on the calendar. However, its roots go back to the distant past. For the ancient Romans, it was the day of a solemn sacrifice in honor of the goddess Maya - the patroness of the earth and fertility, the eldest of the Pleiades, daughters of the titan Atlas and the oceanid Pleione. Together with her sisters, she lived in Arcadia, where Zeus met and fell in love with her. From him she gave birth to a son, Hermes. To free Hera from persecution, Zeus took Maia to heaven along with the other six sisters, turning them into a constellation. It is the name of this goddess that is named after the last month of spring, which is also the first month of sowing. In ancient Rome, it was customary to leave the city in the morning and go to a field or forest; music and dancing accompanied the procession. Having broken the green branches, the residents returned to the city, decorated their gates and houses with them and held feasts with dances, which, by the way, often ended in orgies. Even Emperor Tiberius tried to ban these celebrations, but the celebrations soon became a popular tradition. With the spread of Christianity in the early Middle Ages in Europe, this holiday acquired a dual character. On the one hand, representatives of the Church tried to rid society of pagan “relics” and reduce this day to simple festivities and festive spring recreation in nature. But the pagan essence of the holiday did not disappear.

The night of May 1 continued to be considered favorable for ritual ceremonies and sacrifices, including human sacrifices. It was at that time that a popular belief arose that May Day was a holiday of witches who flew on brooms and goats to Mount Brocken in Germany, where they spent time in wild feasts, dancing and copulation with demons and the devil.

Walpurgis Night came a little later. This name is associated with the name of St. Walpurgis of Wimburn, an English nun who came to Germany in 748 to found a monastery. She died on February 25, 777 in Heidenheim. A century after her death, during renovation work in the monastery, her grave was disturbed, and at night - just on May 1 - her menacing shadow appeared to the workers. Later, her worship in Germany began to acquire occult features, and the name and day of her memory were associated with the mentioned legend about evil spirits. In particular, Goethe talks in detail about Walpurgis Night in Faust (translated by B. Pasternak):

On Brocken the witches are drawn in a row.
The oats have sprouted, the barley has not been harvested.
There is Urian, the prince of obscurantism,
Shows off in the sky.
A squad is flying through the air,
Goats and horsewomen stink...

From the Germans, May Day celebrations from around the 13th century spread to the Eastern Slavs, combining with local pagan customs. Poles, Slovaks, and Czechs welcomed spring in May and drove madder (the death of nature) out of the villages; In Rus', May Day festivities began to be held during the time of Peter I, who saw them for the first time in a German settlement in Moscow and who really liked them. Thus, in the “Guide to Moscow and its environs” for 1872, in the story about Sokolniki, it is noted: “Before Peter the Great, hunting was the favorite pastime of the kings, but Peter, who did not like it, abolished it at court. From then on, Sokolniki ceased to be a place for royal hunting and became a favorite place for country walks of Muscovites. What’s especially wonderful here is the May 1st festivities, to which almost all of Moscow gathers.” In medieval Europe, April 30 marked the end of the administrative year. On this day, the fun was in full swing: the peasants held an annual community meeting, at which they elected a new elder and drove their cattle out to graze. At the same time, the custom arose of lighting May bonfires, gatherings around which were accompanied by gunfire, the ringing of bells, shouts and noise.

Modern history

May Day in its modern form with a political slant arose in the mid-19th century in the labor movement, which put forward the introduction of an eight-hour working day as one of its main demands.

The historian of the Military Historical Institute Yaroslav Lanik says:

“The standard of living of workers and working conditions then, in the era of industrialization, were very difficult, the working day lasted 10-14 hours or more. Unsurprisingly, the working class pushed for change. Australian workers first demanded a shorter working day on April 21, 1856. Following their example, on May 1, 1886, anarchist organizations in the United States and Canada, as well as the American Federation of Labor and other defenders of workers' rights, organized rallies and demonstrations, and also declared a nationwide strike. It took on its most radical character in Chicago.

The demonstrations continued for several days and ended in clashes with the police. On May 4, at a protest rally in Haymarket, a terrorist threw a bomb at police, who responded by firing into the crowd. Sixty police officers were injured, eight were killed, and the exact number of workers killed was not determined.

The police arrested hundreds of townspeople, and eight anarchist workers were sentenced to hanging on charges of organizing the explosion. For three of them, death was commuted to 15 years of hard labor, but four were nevertheless executed, despite protests from the international community.” Their funeral again turned into a mass demonstration. They went down in the history of the labor movement as the “Chicago martyrs.” But their comrades-in-arms set the day of their remembrance not as the day of execution, nor the day of the tragic collision, but precisely on May 1. In December 1888, the American Federation of Labor convention in St. Louis declared May 1 a national day of action for workers' rights.

The Paris Congress of the Second International (July 1889), at the proposal of the French delegate Raymond Lavigne, as a sign of solidarity with Chicago workers, declared May 1, 1890, the Day of Solidarity of Workers of the World and decided to hold annual workers' demonstrations on this day.

This event was immediately picked up by revolutionary socialist movements in all European countries. On May 1, 1890, the holiday was first held in Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Norway, France and Sweden. In the UK it took place on May 4th. The main slogan of the demonstrations was the demand for an eight-hour working day.

And again we will give the floor to Jaroslav Lanik, who tells how the celebrations of the first Workers' Solidarity Day took place in the Czech lands.

“On May 1, 1890, Jan Neruda greeted the workers in his feuilleton. According to statistics, about 130 thousand people took part in the festive demonstration. The celebration centers were Prague, Pilsen and Ostrava. Speaking of prohibitions, at that time employers threatened their subordinates that participation in the demonstration would result in dismissal. I must say, unfortunately, the holiday was not without casualties. In 1891, 10 people were shot dead near Brno. There were also casualties the following year, when the police opened fire into the crowd,” notes Lanik. In 1891, by decision of the Brussels Congress of the Second International, individual sections in each country were given the right to independently set the date and form of the celebration of May 1.

Celebration in Russia

In the Russian Empire, this holiday was first celebrated in 1890 in Warsaw with a May Day strike of workers. The following year, the first May Day took place in St. Petersburg - a meeting of revolutionary-minded workers outside the city, which took its name from the traditional May Day picnics.

May Day became an official holiday only after the October Revolution of 1917. In 1918, it was enshrined in the Labor Code and was called International Day. In the post-war period, May Day demonstrations changed their meaning: in 1970, the Fundamentals of USSR Labor Legislation assigned a new name to the holiday - Days of International Workers' Solidarity. But gradually this context was lost. Historian Alexander Dobrovolsky explains:

“May Day was one of the most beloved holidays in the Soviet Union, because it was spring, it was warm, and people were relaxing. People were irritated by mandatory meetings and demonstrations, slogans that had to be carried, and they compensated for all this with accessible entertainment, for example, taking 200 grams of something fun along the way - in the yard or public garden. For this, sandwiches were prepared in advance, and processed cheese came to the aid of the workers. In 1997, the holiday was depoliticized and became Spring and Labor Day. Although who knows, maybe over time this day will regain its original meaning of the workers’ struggle for their rights. After all, we all work, and we have rights that need to be defended.”

May 1 in the Czech Republic

May 1 is not the most revered holiday in the Czech Republic, as it reminds the population of the Soviet way of life. Jiri Kocian, a professor at the Institute of Contemporary History of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, told us about the history of its celebration in Czechoslovakia and the modern Czech Republic.

The newly formed Czechoslovakia first celebrated May 1 in 1919. How were celebrations carried out during that historical period?

During the First Republic, the view of work radically changed. President Tomas Garrigue Masaryk said that work is what generates value. At the same time, there were fears that the situation at the end of the 19th century could repeat itself, and therefore the state and law enforcement agencies carefully prepared for this day. People, however, were also afraid to take to the streets, but time has shown that the working class is not interested in conflicts; the workers wanted to hold demonstrations and just relax.

However, in the 20s and especially the 30s, in the context of a difficult foreign policy situation and as a result of the economic crisis, there was a certain stratification of society not only on the issue of views on May 1, but in general on all holidays that concerned the working class. As a result, various groups of the population began to celebrate them separately on party and party-trade union principles: in addition to the communists, Social Democrats, National Socialists and other political associations celebrated their May Day.

How did the May Day demonstrations go in the critical years for Czechoslovakia in 1938 and 1939, when the country felt the threat of an imminent German invasion?

May Day 1938 played a special role. That year, the holiday was celebrated in a completely different domestic and international context, although these sentiments had been present within the entire international socialist movement since 1935. In 1937-38, there were contacts at the level of officials and members of socialist and workers' organizations, cooperation was carried out, and similar views were expressed on a situation that caused serious concern. This somewhat blurred the ideological differences, thanks to which demonstrations and holidays, although they remained party ones, were no longer exclusively ideological. This was especially true for communists.

In 1948, the nature of the holiday changed again. Can we say that this day has turned from a solemn declaration of the demands and positions of the labor movement into paying honors to the current authorities?

Partly. By May 1, 1948, some time had passed since the brutal February campaign of repression against citizens who disagreed with the communists; elections were also expected, which were scheduled for May 31. Klement Gottwald was not interested in the public being opposed to the regime. On the contrary, holidays, such as May 1 or the pre-election rallies of the National Front, were supposed to be held in the spirit of popular fun and celebration. Although the communists monitored what was happening, they tried to achieve a sense of national unity.

What was the situation like in the 50s? People were then obliged to participate in demonstrations. It was impossible to leave the procession, since the police stood along the entire route of the flow of people along Wenceslas Square, where May 1 was celebrated...

There really was a strict script at that time. Cheerful May Day overnight turned into a disciplined procession in columns of representatives of various professions, the military, and the people's militia. Anyone who could not attend was required to bring a doctor's certificate. For several years, May 1 passed as if a person had seen footage from Red Square in Moscow.

The Catholic Church, by the way, also celebrated Labor Day, didn't it?

This is a little known fact. Since 1955, the Catholic Church has celebrated the day of St. Joseph the Worker, the patron saint of all workers. Most likely, it was a reaction to the repression of the Catholic Church in the Eastern Bloc countries in the early 50s, and at the same time an attempt to show that the concept of work and its ethical assessment can have a spiritual and ideological context, and not just a communist one.

But in 1968 everything was different...

Indeed, after a long time, May Day was a real Labor Day, to which people went with joy and interest, because there they could speak freely. Absolutely any groups of citizens who could openly declare this could take part in demonstrations at that time. The documents record positive reactions from some communist representatives, and it was a surprising and encouraging moment.

It still has a certain political overtones. For one part of society it is Labor Day, and for another it is just a day off. On this day, no one goes to demonstrations under duress, but simply relaxes and has fun, enjoying the spring with their family and friends. “Political” May Day is celebrated mainly by social democrats, descendants of the labor movement. Sometimes on this day events take place that have a social and political resonance: for example, in Prague, when representatives of the Confederation of Political Prisoners gather at the traditional place where communists used to hold processions and remember the damage the previous regime caused to the country and people.

By the way, May 1 in the Czech Republic is not only Labor Day, but also Valentine's Day. Its appearance was greatly facilitated by one of the popular works of Karel Hynek Macha (1810-1836), the founder of Czech romanticism - his poem “May”.

There is a tradition - on May 1, young couples kiss under a blooming cherry tree, believing that this will help preserve love for many years. However, on Love Day, kissing is recommended for all lovers, regardless of age. The main thing is to be under the cherry tree so that the next year brings a lot of good things - success, health and happiness.

Annual state and religious holidays of the Czech Republic. Vibrant carnivals and festivals in the Czech Republic that you can visit in 2019.

The Czech Republic is a country where fairy tales become reality. The historical appearance of the cities and the traditions of the people are well preserved here. Local residents are friendly and thorough, calm and serious. The peculiarities of their character are noticeable in everything, especially in the celebration of celebrations.

Popular excursions in Prague

No matter what period you come to the Czech Republic, the most interesting place to start getting acquainted is with (see all the significant places and outline routes for future walks). And be sure to go to the legendary Czech resort, at least for one day. The tour includes an overview of the city and a visit to the Krusovice brewery (10 hours, Tripster).

New Year in the Czech Republic 2020

No matter how serious the Czechs are, the New Year is a special holiday. It begins on December 31 - St. Sylvester's Day. He is a revered Catholic figure. Only the year of his death is known - the 335th. Legends say that he saved the world from destruction by defeating a dragon.

The cycle of holidays in the Czech Republic starts with the New Year

The facades of houses and shops are decorated in advance with illumination; biblical motifs can often be found. As a rule, these are figurines of the Virgin Mary or the Magi. Fluffy Christmas trees in the main squares of cities are always decorated with angels. It is believed that he looks favorably at people from the top of the fluffy beauty and blesses them for good deeds.

It is customary to celebrate New Year in the Czech Republic with a large, noisy group. To do this, residents and guests of the country gather for specialized parties in hotels and restaurants. Those who did not manage to book a room should not be upset; concerts and performances will be held in all squares - especially in Prague. The main difference between holding this celebration in the Czech Republic is that the locals love to dance. These can be traditional dances of this people, a polka, or a waltz.

Another option for celebrating the New Year in the Czech Republic is truly fabulous. There are many ancient castles in this country. Of course, not all are open, but there are a number of fortresses with stunning views that you can visit for this celebration. Special companies create a unique holiday atmosphere corresponding to the Middle Ages.

A few minutes before the New Year in Prague, everyone flocks to the Orloj clock. The traditional drink used to celebrate New Year's holidays in the Czech Republic is, which is served hot. You can snack on a warming drink with fried sausages or potato pancakes. Meat cannot be found on the New Year's table of local residents and in many restaurants that night. Housewives cook instead. Each has its own secret to preparing the dish. True, some people prefer not to cook, but to release the fish into the wild. This tradition shows how merciful and kind Czechs can be.

If you go to celebrate New Year in the Czech Republic, be prepared that there is no Santa Claus in the country. He is replaced by St. Nicholas. He gives children sweets and gifts, and this is done at the beginning, not at the end of December. That’s why the festive mood comes to homes earlier than elsewhere in the world and remains there until January.

Folk festivities end on the night of December 31 to January 1 with festive fireworks. But that doesn't mean it's time to go home. The next evening, stunning flowers bloom in the Prague sky. This fireworks display is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Millions of tourists come to the country just for him. New Year coincides with another important event - Czech Independence Day. Therefore, January 1 is a double holiday for the residents of the country, which is celebrated on a grand scale.

Holidays in the Czech Republic in January 2019

Czechs celebrate the 6th day of the first month of the year Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is a holiday of mercy, compassion and generosity. Children dress in ancient costumes of kings and go around the houses with carols, skits and dances.

This tradition appeared in 2001 and has already become very popular. This is how children do a noble cause, raise funds for charity. This day symbolizes the end of Christmastide and the beginning of Carnival. Much attention is paid to visiting theaters, concert halls and balls. The carnival environment allows you to plunge into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Brightly decorated halls, masquerades, mandatory tailcoats and dresses - this is what can be found on the streets of the Czech Republic at this time. The main dance of these events is traditionally the waltz.

In January, guests of the country also have a reason to rejoice. At this time, brand stores decorate their windows with discounts, 50% is not the limit. If you search a little, you might even come across a 70% share.

Winter festivals and carnivals in the Czech Republic 2019

Two weeks before Catholic Lent (in 2019 the dates fell on March 2-6), the Bohemian Carnival starts.

This is the time when a masquerade show fills the streets of the city, becoming part of a large theatrical performance. This tradition is already about 700 years old. The program of shows is very diverse: these can be balls, costume competitions, dances, mask shows, specialized children's competitions, and performances. As a rule, there are two types of masks - those related to either Red or Black. They symbolize the confrontation between good and evil.

One of the main venues for parades is Old Town Square. From here the procession begins its trek through the streets of the capital, where competitions are also held. But don't think that during the parade everyone is just singing and dancing. There are also plenty of treats: guests and residents of the country can try the delicious dishes of local housewives.

A traveler who decides to visit Prague at this moment should not pass by the palace of Count Clam-Gallas. This 15th century building has changed its appearance more than once, but has retained its originality. Now it hosts concerts and excursions.

Czech holidays and Easter in spring 2019

Most spring holidays in the Czech Republic are associated with the date of Easter (in 2019 it falls on April 21). Unlike the Orthodox holiday, the celebration there is more secular in nature and is celebrated on Monday, not Sunday. The celebration begins with Green Thursday. On this day, children take to the streets with rattles and bells. This is how they drive the spirit of Judas out of their homes and hearts.

Two days later, on Saturday, they go caroling. This is no longer charity, but an opportunity to please yourself with sweets. The main attribute of the Easter holiday in the Czech Republic are colored eggs. They can be found everywhere: in the form of treats, decorations for store windows, even in special stalls on the streets, where they are painted by hand. Pies, cookies reminiscent of lamb, and Easter cakes are frequent treats. Legs of lamb are roasted in the squares - whole!

Easter in the Czech Republic is usually celebrated for a week. In this connection, there is a piquant tradition that men will appreciate. You need to weave whips from willows (“pomlazki” in Czech) and whip the woman in a soft spot. With this action, a man will give a woman beauty and youth for a whole year. True, in the afternoon the girls have the right to make a retaliatory move by dousing the “offender” with cold water. So be careful when walking the streets throughout the week!

Holidays in the Czech Republic in May 2019

The first day of the last spring month - Workers' Day, in the Czech Republic it is customary to celebrate with solemn parades, concerts, and youth performances.

On Victory Day In this country, two whole days are allocated, May 5 and 8. Wreaths, military parades, solemn and important - this is how they pay tribute to those who fell during the war and occupation in the Czech Republic. A special feature of the celebration of Victory Day is the creation of reconstructions of military operations. Another May holiday shows the upbringing and values ​​of the Czechs. Celebrated on the second Sunday of the month Mothers Day. This is a family holiday in the Czech Republic, on which it is customary to delight grandmothers and mothers with gifts. The best gift is a gift made by yourself.

At the end of May, the Czech Republic is again ready to receive international guests - beer festivals are starting all over the country, which is famous for the quality of its foaming alcoholic drink. From mid-May (10th to 26th 2019) you can easily attend the beer festival. The largest one takes place in Prague. They prepare for it very seriously: tents are set up, seats are allocated.

So unique in the Czech way. During this period, you can try over a hundred types of beer in Prague, admire theatrical performances, and listen to musicians. In 2019, guests and residents of the country are promised to be pampered with beer-flavored desserts, wine and treats.

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Holidays in the Czech Republic in summer 2019

On July 5th of every year, the Czech Republic celebrates a unique holiday - Day of Cyril and Methodius. These are one of the few saints recognized by both the Orthodox and Catholic churches. Thanks to these saints, every Christian once had the opportunity to listen to a service in a language he understood. Surprisingly, in the Czech Republic the celebration received the status of a public holiday. How is it celebrated? On this day it is customary for families to go to church.

The next day, July 6, thousands of bonfires break out in tribute to Jan Gnus. A reformer, philosopher, priest with an active life position, he made church books more understandable and the rules of conduct for clergy clearer. The great sadness of the holy man was the decline in the spirituality of the church. For attempting to point this out to senior management, he was deprived of his priesthood and burned at the stake. His memory day is a public holiday in the Czech Republic.

The summer solstice is celebrated in the Czech Republic. It takes place in the south of the country, in Cesky Krumlov, and lasts three days. During this period, the already beautiful city is transformed many times over, rewinding time back several centuries. The carnival features a medieval procession that fills the streets. Knightly tournaments, fairs of the 13th-15th centuries, costumes and entertainment - all this gives the holiday a special chic. There is a lot to see and a lot to take part in.

On July 8, film lovers flock to Karlovy Vary - a film festival opens there. Exhibitions, presentations, master classes from the best directors and actors in the world - this is what awaits you at Film Festival in Karlovy Vary residents and guests of the country. A nice bonus: it is more affordable than many similar events.

Holidays in the Czech Republic in autumn 2019

We list the autumn holidays of the Czech Republic, which are the most important in the country. These days, celebrations and concerts are held everywhere:

• Czechs associate the golden carpet under their feet with Statehood Day(September 28). This holiday is loved by local residents, because at the same time they celebrate the day of the beloved patron of the Czech Republic - St. Wenceslas.
• A month later, the country again begins to be full of flags and national attributes. 28 of October - Day of formation of independent Czechoslovakia.
• The last Czech public holiday of the year is celebrated on November 17. He pays tribute to the tragic struggle for freedom and democracy.

Czech Festivals: Vintage Festival

Autumn in the Czech Republic is marked not only by official celebrations. After the hot summer comes the time of festivals, balls, fairy tales and harvest. At the beginning of September, a festive parade for the little ones takes place in the city of Jicin. For a week, the town becomes part of a fairy tale: concerts, carnivals and performances are held.

At the end of September, festivals in the Czech Republic will delight adult tourists. At this time it is carried out vintage festival. It is customary to drink a kind of drink on it - something between wine and juice. And in November, the Czechs treat their guests to new wine; the fame has spread to Eastern Europe. Each holiday lasts at least 3 days and is accompanied by folk festivities.

Like all of Europe, at the end of October the Czech Republic bursts into flames with a million decorated pumpkins. Halloween has taken root well in this calm but celebration-filled country. After all, costume balls, masquerades and carnivals in the Czech Republic are now as remarkable as palaces and castles. The latter, by the way, close in late autumn, giving way to museums and exhibitions.

December celebrations - Christmas in the Czech Republic

Christmas is, without a doubt, the warmest holiday in the Czech Republic. It all starts quite early, with St. Nicholas Day - December 6th.

Christmas holidays in the Czech Republic are a fairy tale!

On this day, children begin to receive gifts and sweets, Christmas trees are decorated, and they begin to work. It is important that every fluffy tree should have a bell. Its ringing is considered a reason to look under the tree. Czechs believe that gifts are brought not only by Mikolas, but also by a good spirit - Jerzyshek. No one knows what he looks like, and in principle this is not surprising - he is an incorporeal creature.

On Christmas Eve (December 24) it is not customary to cook meat dishes. But the table is still bursting with treats. There should be exactly 12 of them and all of them should be lean. The highlight of the program are carp dishes. The Czechs are hospitable people, therefore, despite the “family” nature of Christmas, they always put an additional device on the table for the occasional guest.

So if on Christmas night in the Czech Republic you have nowhere to lay your head, not only will they not kick you out, but they will also feed you and wish you happiness.

Traditions and everyday magic in the life of the Czechs: to attract wealth, you should put carp scales in plates, which you will then have to carry in your wallet all year. Another entertaining Czech tradition at Christmas is feeding the bears. Tame animals can easily be found on city streets and treated to fish.

Official holidays of the Czech Republic 2019

Official holidays in this country are not only public holidays, but also church holidays, as you have already seen above:

• 14th of April- day off in the Czech Republic, Good Friday;
• April 21, 2019- Easter Monday;
• 1st of May- International Labor Day;
• May 8- The Czech Republic celebrates the Day of Victory over Fascism;
• July 5-6- days of remembrance of Saints Cyril and Methodius and the philosopher John Hus;
• September 28- Statehood Day (and St. Wenceslas);
• 28 of October- Day of the formation of independent Czechoslovakia;
• November 17- Day of the struggle for freedom and democracy.

However, the most beloved and important holiday in the Czech Republic is Christmas. Here you can officially relax for three whole days - from December 24 to 26 each year.

From Prague
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Public holidays in the Czech Republic (weekends)

January 1, 2019

New Year(Nový rok). According to Czech tradition, baked carp with apples and lentils must be present on the New Year's holiday table. These two dishes are meant to fill the coming year with happiness and abundance. It is not customary to serve a bird, because according to the old belief, it is capable of carrying away on its wings everything good that is in the house. On TV, instead of the usual film “The Irony of Fate or Enjoy Your Bath,” they show another Soviet film - the famous production of Alexander Rowe “Morozko”.

It is interesting that the Czech President delivers a congratulatory speech on January 1 at 13:00 local time. He congratulates not only on the New Year, but also on Day of restoration of the independent Czech state(Den obnovy samostatného českého státu) is a holiday that arose in 1993 in connection with the division of Czechoslovakia into two independent states (Czech Republic and Slovakia).

April 19, 2019

Good Friday, also known as Good Friday. Dedicated to the remembrance of the condemnation to death, suffering on the cross and death of Jesus Christ, as well as the removal of His body from the cross and burial.

April 22, 2019

Catholic Easter(Velikonoce). The Czechs have their own, very original Easter tradition. On the first Monday after the Resurrection of the Lord (Velikonoční pondělí), Czech men weave a special twig - pomlázka - from willow branches and fabric ribbons. Then, with these “sweats,” they walk along the central streets and lightly whip the fair sex passing by. The tradition is so ancient that today no one can explain what its original meaning is. Some ethnographers believe that quilting with young branches should prolong women's youth and beauty. However, girls have the right to pay off especially zealous guys with sweets or colored eggs. If you fail to pay off, you can take revenge! After all, another Czech Easter tradition allows girls to pour water on sluggish guys.

May 1, 2019

Labor Day(Svátek práce). Not the most revered holiday in the Czech Republic, as it reminds the population of the Soviet way of life. However, recently the perception of this day has changed in a positive direction due to the fact that Czech youth have transformed it into Day of spring and love- a wonderful holiday, warmed by the heat of loving hearts. According to modern tradition, in order for a reverent union to last a lifetime and love not to fade away, lovers must kiss under a cherry tree. The largest number of cherry trees in Prague are located on Petřín Hill.

May 8, 2019

Victory Day(Den vítězství). After gaining independence, the Czech Republic changed the date of the holiday to the European style - all of Europe and the USA celebrate it on May 8. The fact is that the surrender of the fascist troops took place on May 8, 1945 at 23:01 Central European time, and in Moscow it was already 00:01 on May 9. In addition, the holiday changed its name several times. At first it was “Day of Liberation of Czechoslovakia by the Soviet Army” (1951-1989), then “Day of Liberation from Fascism” (1990-1999), then simply “Day of Liberation” (2000-2003), and only in 2004 it became “Victory Day” , as is customary throughout the world. Regardless of the name, this great day is celebrated as before - all those who fell in battle are honored with a minute of silence and wreaths with flowers are laid at the graves of those who died for the liberation of Prague. Also on this day you can see historical reconstructions of major battles and get a closer look at rare military equipment.

July 5, 2019

Day of Slavic Saints Methodius and Cyril(Den slovanských věrozvěstů Metoděje a Cyrila). The brothers, who have lived in the Czech Republic for a long time, are preachers of Christianity, creators of the Slavic alphabet and the Church Slavonic language. Methodius and Cyril laid the cultural foundation on which Czech national identity was subsequently born and an independent state with its own traditional culture was formed.

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July 6, 2019

Execution Day of Jan Hus(Den upálení mistra Jana Husa). Memorial Day for the famous preacher Jan Hus, who was burned alive for his views and ideas (he truthfully criticized the activities of the church and called for reforms). After his death, his name became the banner for the national liberation movement directed against Austro-German domination. For centuries, the ruling Habsburg dynasty tried to eradicate Hussite sentiments among the Czech people, but failed. Nowadays, Jan Hus is the most respected and revered person among the Czechs.

September 28, 2019

Czech Statehood Day(Den české státnosti). This Czech holiday is dedicated to Saint Wenceslas, a visionary statesman who completed the complex process of Christianization of the Czech lands. Folk tales and legends attribute many positive qualities and actions to Wenceslas. Wenceslas was subsequently canonized and became the patron saint of the Czech Republic.

October 28, 2019

Day of formation of the independent Czechoslovak state(Den vzniku samostatného československého státu). This holiday in the Czech Republic is a tribute to history. The date recalls that it was on this day in 1918 that the Czech National Committee declared the independence of Czechoslovakia from Austria-Hungary. And although in 1993 the state was divided into the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the holiday has not lost its importance and significance.

November 17, 2019

Day of struggle for freedom and democracy(Den boje za svobodu a demokracii). Events that occurred in 1939 and 1989 are associated with this date. In the fall of 1939, when the Nazis occupied Czechoslovakia, the only ones who decided to openly protest were Prague students. On November 17, all participants were arrested. The main instigators were shot (9 people), and the rest were sent to a concentration camp (more than 1000 students). It is in memory of those bloody events that “International Students’ Day” is celebrated on November 17.

Exactly 50 years later, a peaceful demonstration on November 17, 1989 marked the beginning of the Velvet Revolution, which led to the fall of communist power in the Czech Republic. After gaining independence, the date November 17 was proclaimed the “Day of Students’ Struggle for Freedom and Democracy,” and in 2000 the name was changed to “Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy.”

December 24-26, 2019

Christmas Eve(Štědrý den) and Christmas(Vánoce). Another holiday that Czechs cannot imagine without carp. During the New Year and Christmas holidays, carp replaces the Czechs with our favorite salad “Olivier”, which, by the way, can also often be seen on the holiday table, only under the name “Potato Salad”. In addition to the obligatory presence of carp, the complete absence of meat at the Christmas feast is important. Don't be surprised to see an empty plate on the table. Most likely, it indicates that the owners were unable to gather an even number of guests at the table, which is mandatory for the holiday. According to Czech tradition, carp scales and sometimes a small coin are placed under each plate for good luck. The guest must take the fish scale with him and carry it in his wallet all year.

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Public holidays in the Czech Republic (not weekends)

January 6, 2019

Feast of the Three Kings(Svátek tří králů) or Epiphany Day- the oldest religious holiday, celebrated by Catholic Christians since the 2nd century. The origin of the holiday is connected with the legend of the arrival of three pagan wise men with gifts to the newborn Jesus. Although their names were not initially known, they were later known as Melchior, Casparar and Belshazzar.

Today, during the celebration of Epiphany Day in the Czech Republic, it is customary to engage in charity. Boys and girls dressed as the three wise men and accompanied by adults go from house to house and sing Christmas carols (songs). In gratitude for singing, the owners of the houses give the children various gifts, which they pass on to those in need. The Feast of the Three Kings ends the Christmas holidays in the Czech Republic.

February 28 - March 5, 2019

Meat Pust (Masopust) is a week of folk festivals, festivities and fun, an analogue of the Russian Maslanitsa. Meat Empty begins with Fat Thursday (tučný čtvrtek) and ends with Fat Tuesday (tučné úterý), followed by Ash Wednesday (popeleční středa), which marks the beginning of Lent. The origin of the name Myasopust is associated with the phrase “I release the meat.” If the symbol of Russian Maslenitsa is traditionally pancakes, then donuts are considered a characteristic feature of Czech Myasopust.

Meat Empty is marked by cheerful masquerade festivities. At this time, on the streets of the Czech Republic you can see colorful costumed processions, their basis is mumming (the ritual transformation of a person’s appearance with the help of masks, clothes and other attributes). Of the zoomorphic images, they most often dress up as a bear, which was considered a symbol of fertility, and also dress up as a horse and a goat. Among the anthropomorphic characters, they dress up as a woman with a burden, a woman with a baby, as well as a chimney sweep, a forester, a doctor, a gendarme, a gypsy, a Turk, a Jew, a jester and a “death woman”. Mummers walk through the main squares and streets, acting out theatrical scenes of an everyday nature. Every mummer knows well how to behave: for example, a Jew with a bag swears loudly about the gifts and treats offered to the mummers; the gifts should have seemed small to him, and the treats meager.

The Meat Pust holiday is also a significant gastronomic event, especially for guests of the Czech Republic, since during this week (before Lent) they try to prepare nutritious traditional dishes. On Myasopusta Sunday a ball is held; village balls are especially picturesque. Everyone dances and has fun until the morning. In some villages they also hold a ball on Monday; they call it “man’s ball,” which means that only those who are married can dance.

Meat Empty ends on Tuesday with a large masquerade procession, and closer to midnight there is a symbolic funeral for the double bass - which means the fun and merriment are over, it’s time to start observing Lent (before Easter). The “funeral” ceremony takes place with the participation of a priest, undertaker and servants, and there are comic speeches about the sins of the double bass and satirical addresses to fellow villagers. The fun sometimes continues past midnight. The owners gather in the wine cellar and there they only say their final goodbyes to Myasopust. The next day, on Ash Wednesday, before lunch you can still drink coffee with butter rolls or milk, and even drink liqueur or homemade wine.

Days on which Meat Empty will fall in the coming years:

• February 20–25, 2020;
• February 11–16, 2021;
• February 24 - March 1, 2022;
• February 16–21, 2023.

February 14, 2019

Valentine's Day(Den svateho Valentina). On this day, the patron saint of lovers inspires a considerable part of Czech youth to give gifts and surprises. And there is a noticeable increase in tourists during the holiday, because the romantic atmosphere of the Czech capital invites unforgettable impressions.

night from April 30 to May 1, 2019

Walpurgis Night(Pálení čarodějnic). On this night, a tradition that dates back to pagan times comes to life. Throughout the Czech Republic, bonfires are lit, round dances are performed and effigies symbolizing witches are burned.

November 11, 2019

St. Martin's Day(Den svateho Martina). Despite its “holy” name, this holiday in the Czech Republic has grown into the day of “New Wine”. According to symbolic tradition, every year on the 11th day, 11th month, at 11 o’clock and 11 minutes, restaurants and wine shops begin the “New Wine Year” by opening bottles of new wine. The holiday appeared during the reign of Joseph II (late 18th century). In those days, it was from St. Martin's Day that it was allowed to “close” the agricultural year and uncork the first bottle of young aromatic wine.

December 4, 2019

Saint Barbara's Day(Den svaté Barbory). The first news of the approaching Christmas. On this day, Czechs cut small branches from frozen cherry trees and bring them to their home. Placed in water, they should produce their first leaves just in time for Christmas. The name of St. Barbara is pronounced Barbora in Czech, which is why the cut cherry branches are called “barborki.” The tradition of fortune telling for girls is also connected with them (the outcome of the prediction depends on when the “barborka” placed in the water will bloom or turn green). Saint Barbara also does not forget about children - she always pours a lot of candy or leaves a gift for everyone who hangs a stocking outside the window.

December 6, 2019

St. Nicolas day(Den svateho Mikulase). Another Czech holiday when children receive gifts. They are brought by a mythical character very similar to Father Frost, who is affectionately called Mikulash. An angel and an imp help Mikulas deliver gifts - obedient children receive sweets and gifts from the angel, and naughty children receive coal and potatoes from the imp.

Memorial days in the Czech Republic (not weekends)

• January 27 - Day of Remembrance for Victims of the Holocaust and Crimes Against Humanity;
• March 8 - International Women's Day;
• March 12 - Day of entry of the Czech Republic into NATO;
• April 7 - Day of Education;
• May 5 is a memorial date of the Prague Uprising in 1945;
• May 15 - Family Day;
• June 10 - destruction of the village of Lidice;
• June 27 - Day of Remembrance for Victims of the Communist Regime;
• November 11 is War Veterans Day.

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