Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Every year, millions of people visit Prague to experience its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. One of the best times to visit Prague is during the national holidays, when the city comes alive with activities and special events. 

Prague's national holidays are an exciting time to visit the city. During these special days, the city comes alive with music, dancing, and a variety of events. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a regular day, Prague always has something unique to offer.

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1st of May - Labor Day: one of the most Important Day in Prague National Holidays 

The labor day is celebrated with festivities and parades across the city. Labor Day in Prague is one of the most important national holidays celebrated in the Czech Republic. It is a symbolic representation of the working class and the labor movement. Every year, the day is celebrated with rallies, demonstrations, and parades throughout the city.

The celebration of Labor Day in Prague dates back to the early 1900s. During this time, the working class and labor movement experienced a great deal of oppression and exploitation. In response, workers began to organize strikes and protests in an effort to improve their conditions. The first official celebration of Labor Day in Prague occurred in 1896, when the city of Prague held a large parade and rally.

 

 

Prague National Holidays, such as Labor Day, have changed over the years. Today, the holiday is used to celebrate the achievements of the Czech Republic and its people. It is also a time to recognize the contributions of the working class and labor movement.

The highlight of Labor Day in Prague is the parade, which is held on the first Monday of May. It serves as a reminder of the struggles that the working class and labor movement have endured in order to achieve better working conditions.

In the Czech Republic, a longstanding May 1 tradition is to kiss one's beloved beneath a blooming cherry tree. It is believed that if a girl is kissed in this manner on this day, she will remain beautiful for the rest of the year.

Cherry Blossoms on Prague National Holidays' Labor Day
Cherry Blossoms on Labor Day

Programs on the Labor Day

On the morning of May 1st, there is usually a grand parade through the streets of Prague, with large crowds cheering and applauding the workers who march in solidarity.

After the parade, there are usually smaller rallies and vigils in different parts of the city. People often come together to celebrate their rights, share stories, and demand better working conditions. In addition to the demonstrations and marches, many events and activities are held throughout the city on Labor Day.

Music concerts, public art displays, and street festivals are all common occurrences. Many restaurants and bars offer special deals and discounts to celebrate the day. There are also many activities for children, such as face painting, clown performances, and puppet shows.

8th of May - Liberation Day

A historic day that marks the end of Nazi occupation in the city. On May 9th, 1945, the city was liberated by the Red Army and its soldiers after a long and bloody battle that had lasted nearly five months. The Nazi occupation of Prague was a dark and oppressive time for the city and its citizens. For many, the liberation was a symbol of hope and a reminder that freedom could be achieved. During the occupation, the Nazis had implemented a series of oppressive restrictions on the citizens of Prague, including curfews, strict censorship of the press, and the arrest and deportation of Jewish citizens. It was only through the hard work and bravery of the Czech people and their allies that the city was ultimately liberated.

In the years since, Prague has become a thriving cultural hub, with a thriving art and music scene as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Prague National Holidays Programs on the Liberation Day

During Prague National Holidays, such as Liberation Day, memorial services, parades, and other events are held throughout the country to honor the heroes who fought for freedom, culminating in a celebration in Wenceslas Square, the largest square in the city.

The main event is the military parade, which is accompanied by a memorial ceremony honoring the Czechoslovak pilots who fought in the war. 
There are also speeches, performances, and a military flyover by the Czech Air Force. In addition, many Czechs also take part in other celebrations such as concerts, parties, and a variety of cultural activities.

5th of July - Saints Cyril and Methodius Day

Saints Cyril and Methodius Day is an annual celebration held in Prague to honor two brothers who brought Christianity to the region in the 9th century. The brothers were sent by their monk mentor, Constantine, to evangelize the Slavic people. This day marks the anniversary of their arrival in Prague and their subsequent mission to spread the Christian faith in the region.

Cyril and Methodius were born in Thessaloniki in Greece in the late 8th century and were educated in Constantinople. After hearing about their work and dedication, Constantine sent them to Moravia with the mission to translate the Bible into the Slavic language. The brothers worked tirelessly, writing books and establishing schools in order to spread their newly created language, which is now known as Old Church Slavonic.

The celebration is a reminder of the brothers’ mission to spread the Christian faith and a way to honor their memory. The day usually begins with a procession from the Old Town Square to the Church of St. Vitus, where the brothers are buried. During the procession, there are prayers, hymns, and readings from the Bible.

Statue of Cyril and Methodius
Statue of Cyril and Methodius

Programs on Saints Cyril and Methodius Day

In the city center, a parade is being held to commemorate Saints Cyril and Methodius on one of Prague's National Holidays.

A special concert will be held in Old Town Square with performances of traditional Czech music and folk songs. A spectacular fireworks display will be held near the Vltava River.

There will be a variety of festivities throughout the city, including street performances, food and craft vendors, and traditional games
Local historians will give lectures about the life and legacy of Saints Cyril and Methodius at various museums and churches throughout the city.

A special mass will be held at St. Vitus Cathedral to pay tribute to the two saints.

6th of July - Jan Hus Day

Jan Hus Day is a national holiday in the Czech Republic to commemorate the death of Jan Hus, a religious reformer and martyr who was burned at the stake in 1415.

Jan Hus was a religious reformer in the 15th century who sought to reform the Catholic Church in the Czech lands. His teachings were seen as heretical by the Church and he was excommunicated in 1411. He was arrested in 1414 and ultimately burned at the stake in 1415. Jan Hus's martyrdom has become a symbol of Czech national identity and his teachings have been a source of inspiration for the Czech people for centuries.

To commemorate him, a memorial statue of Jan Hus was erected in Prague in 1915 and a holiday was declared to honor his memory.
The holiday is celebrated with special church services and a procession in Prague. People gather to lay flowers at the Jan Hus Memorial and to honor his memory. There are also concerts and other cultural events held in his honor.

It is a day of Prague national holidays to remember and honor the legacy of Jan Hus and his commitment to religious freedom and social reform.

Programs on Jan Hus Day

There is a parade through the streets of Prague to commemorate the legacy of Jan Hus. You can see colorful costumes, hear the music, and admire processions of this historic event. There is a guided tour of the Jan Hus Museum to learn more about the life and times of this important figure in Czech history. A concert is hold by a local band performing music inspired by Jan Hus.

Statue of Jan Hus on the Old Town Square
Statue of Jan Hus on the Old Town Square

28th of September - Czech Statehood Day (St. Wenceslas Day)

Czech Statehood Day is a public holiday celebrated on 28 September in the Czech Republic. It commemorates the death of Czech prince Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech Republic, who was murdered in 935. The celebration of the day dates back to the 16th century, when King Vladislav II established a special holiday of Prague national holidays to honor Wenceslas.

On this day, Czechs of all ages gather in the capital city of Prague to honor the legacy of their prince.  Czech Statehood Day is an important part of the Czech national identity, and serves to remind the Czechs of the courage and sacrifice of their prince.There, a reenactment of the prince’s death is held, and a special ceremony is conducted in the Church of Our Lady before Týn.

Prague National Holidays Programs on the Czech Statehood Day

A grand parade will be held in Wenceslas Square to commemorate the Czech Statehood Day. The parade is include military bands, floats, dancers, and other performers. A special concert will be held at the Prague State Opera to honor the occasion. The concert will feature classical music by some of the country's most celebrated composers.

A spectacular fireworks display in the evening over the Charles Bridge. Local restaurants and cafes are offering special Czech dishes and drinks for the occasion.

Craftsmen and vendors are setting up stalls in Old Town Square to sell handmade goods and traditional Czech souvenirs on this day of Prague national holidays.

Several museums in the city are open to the public with free admission. These include the National Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Jewish Museum.

Prague National Holidays: 28th of October - Independence Day

The Independence Day of Prague is an annual celebration of the city’s freedom from the Habsburg Empire in 1918. The day is celebrated each year on October 28th, the same day in which the Czechoslovak Republic was founded. It is a day of national unity and pride, as the city celebrates its long history of freedom and independence.

This day of Prague national holidays is also a reminder of the city’s turbulent past, as it was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II, and was then annexed by the communist regime of Czechoslovakia after the war. This day serves as a reminder of the strength of the people of Prague and their determination to remain free.

Programs on Independence Day

A special flag raising ceremony will be held at the Old Town Square, where the Czech and Slovak flags will be raised to commemorate the independence of the two countries.

A special ball will be held in the evening, to commemorate the independence of the two countries. A special concert will be held in the evening, featuring both Czech and Slovak music and dance.

But above all, the main event is the state ceremony at Hradcany Square in front of Prague Castle, where the president and other national officials give speeches and lay wreaths at the monument of the first Czechoslovak president, Tomas Garrigue Masaryk.

At night, the sky is illuminated with fireworks and the city is decorated with flags. There is also a torchlight procession, which is a popular tradition.

Fireworks Prague
Fireworks on Independence Day

17th of November - Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day

Every 17th of November, the people of Prague remember the day in 1989 when the citizens of Czechoslovakia peacefully overthrew the Communist regime that had been in place since 1948. The day marks the end of the Velvet Revolution, which was a series of peaceful protests and demonstrations that began in Prague in November 1989.

The events of November 17th, 1989, were significant because they marked the beginning of the end for the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. On that day, over 250,000 people gathered in Wenceslas Square to protest the regime and demand an end to censorship, human rights abuses, and the suppression of freedom of speech and expression.

On this day of Prague national holidays, the people of Prague also remember the sacrifices and courage of those who fought for freedom and democracy in the Velvet Revolution. This includes the students and activists who were arrested, beaten, and even killed during their struggle for freedom.
It is a reminder of the power of the people to stand up to oppressive regimes, and to fight for their right to choose their own future.

Programs on Freedom and Democracy Day

Gather citizens of all ages and backgrounds in Prague to take part in a peaceful march through the city. Have participants bring signs and banners to demonstrate their support for freedom and democracy. After the march, hold a rally in Wenceslas Square to celebrate freedom and democracy. Invite prominent figures to speak and inspire the crowd.

Light candles in remembrance of those who have died for freedom and democracy. This is a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance.
Host a cultural event such as a concert or a play to celebrate freedom and democracy. This can be a great way to bring people together and to celebrate the values of freedom and democracy.

The King of Prague National Holidays - 25th of December - Christmas

Christmas in Prague is a magical time. The city is illuminated with festive lights and decorations, and the streets are filled with the sounds of Christmas carols. The traditional markets, found in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, offer an array of local products, including handmade ornaments and gifts exclusive to Prague. Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a popular time to visit the city, and during this period, Christmas markets sprout up all over town. The markets offer traditional Czech food and drinks, such as grog, mulled wine and trdelnik, a type of sweet pastry. 

The centerpiece of Christmas in Prague is the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the Old Town Square. Every year the city puts up a large tree, which is lit up and decorated with ornaments and lights. The ceremony draws large crowds, who fill the square to sing carols and watch a fireworks display.

Christmas is also celebrated with traditional Czech delicacies such as carp, sauerkraut and potato salad. And of course, no Christmas celebration would be complete without the traditional Czech Christmas carols.

Christmas in Prague is a time of fun and festivity. The city comes alive with the sights and sounds of the season, and the markets, decorations and ceremonies make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays in style.

Christmas at the Old Town Square Prague
Christmas at the Old Town Square Prague

Prague National Holidays Programs at Christmas

Prague is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. From the stunning Prague Castle to the Old Town Square, there are plenty of festive stalls selling traditional Czech treats and crafts. Don’t miss the chance to taste some of the delicious Czech food, such as trdelnik (spiral-shaped pastries), smažený sýr (fried cheese) and bramboráky (potato pancakes).

Prague has several outdoor ice rinks for the whole family to enjoy over the festive period. The popular rinks in front of the Old Town Hall and the National Museum offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced skaters on this day of Prague national holidays.

Every year, the historic city of Prague plays host to one of the largest and most vibrant Christmas markets in all of Europe. From mid-November to the end of December, Wenceslas Square is transformed into a festive winter wonderland, with over a hundred stalls selling traditional Christmas treats, hand-crafted gifts, and holiday decorations.

One of the most beloved holiday traditions in Prague is the display of a large, elaborate nativity scene in the city center. The display, which is updated each year, features life-size statues of the Holy Family and a variety of other characters from the nativity story. It is located in Old Town Square and is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

 

 

1st of January -  New Year's Eve

The New Year's Eve celebration in Prague is one of the most exciting celebrations in the world. The Prague citizens come together to celebrate the beginning of a new year with a magical atmosphere. As midnight approaches, the streets of the city are filled with people celebrating, fireworks light up the sky, and the sounds of music and laughter can be heard everywhere.

The celebration begins in the Old Town Square, where the stunning Astronomical Clock is the center of attention. At the stroke of midnight, the clock chimes and a parade of historical figures appear. The parade is followed by a magnificent fireworks display and a river of champagne and beer. 

The festivities continue throughout the night in the city's many pubs and clubs. Traditional Czech music and dances fill the air, and the streets are alive with revelers. For those looking for something a bit more low key, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes offering delicious New Year's meals and drinks.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, you are sure to have an unforgettable New Year's Eve experience in Prague. The city is full of life and cheer, and the locals will ensure that you feel welcome.

Programs on New Year's Eve

  1. Prague Old Town Square New Year’s Eve Party – Celebrate the New Year in the historical Old Town Square. Enjoy live music, traditional Czech cuisine, and fireworks as you welcome in the New Year. 
  2. Prague Castle New Year’s Eve Ball – Ring in the New Year at one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy a five-course dinner, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. 
  3. Prague Boat Party – Celebrate the New Year on the Vltava River. Enjoy the stunning views of Prague’s historic landmarks as you party on the river. 
  4. Prague Zoo and Aquarium New Year’s Eve Party – Celebrate the New Year with the animals of the Prague Zoo and Aquarium. Enjoy live music, food, and drinks as you welcome in the new year. 
  5. Prague Street Festival – Join the party at Wenceslas Square. Enjoy live music, traditional Czech food, and dancing in the streets. 
  6. Prague Astronomical Clock Show – Gather around the famous Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square and watch the shows at the stroke of midnight. This is a unique way to welcome in the New Year in Prague

1st of January - Restoration Day of the Independent

On the 1st of January, the Czech Republic commemorates the Restoration Day of the Independent, which marks the day of Prague national holidays in 1990 when the Czech Republic and Slovakia formed the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic. This was a major milestone in the history of the country, as it signaled the end of the communist rule and the beginning of a new era of democracy and freedom.The restoration of the independent Czech Republic is a reminder of the difficult journey that the country has gone through in order to gain its freedom and independence.

It is also a reminder of the importance of democracy and human rights, and of the need for nations to strive for peace and stability. On this day, the citizens of the Czech Republic remember the heroes and patriots who fought for the freedom of their nation, and celebrate the freedom and independence that they now enjoy.

Programs on the Restoration Day of the Independent

9:00  – Ceremony of the National Flag Raising at the Prague Castle
10:00 – Parade of the Czech Armed Forces and Police
11:00  – Official Speech at the Old Town Square
12:00  – Music Performance and Cultural Events
14:00  – Firework Display
16:00 – National Celebration at Wenceslas Square
19:00 – Charity Concert and Awards Ceremony
21:00 – Gala Dinner at the Municipal Hall
22:00 – Closing Ceremony at the Prague Castle

Prague National Holidays Conclusion

Overall, Prague has many national holidays that are celebrated throughout the year. These holidays are a great way to honor the rich history and culture of the Czech Republic and to bring the people of Prague together in celebration.

 

For more information about the Prague National Holidays visit Public Holidays in the Czech Republic 

For more fun and program opportunities visit our website regularly where you will find constantly updated content!

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