Czech National Holidays

Czech national holidays are not just days off from work; they are vibrant celebrations rooted in the history, culture, and traditions of the Czech Republic. Each holiday serves as a window into the Czech people’s heritage, commemorating historical events, honoring religious traditions, and celebrating freedom and democracy.

Table of Contents

• Annual Public Holidays in the Czech Republic
• How to Experience Czech Holidays in Prague

Annual Public Holidays in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic recognizes a variety of public holidays each year, each carrying significant cultural and historical meaning, deeply rooted in the nation's heritage and traditions.

Restoration Day and New Year

The first day of January is twofold in its celebration in the Czech Republic. Restoration Day marks the creation of the independent Czech state in 1993 following the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia. Restoration Day and New Year's celebrations are centered in vibrant locations like Old Town Square, which hosts spectacular fireworks and live music performances.

Concurrently, it is celebrated as New Year’s Day, where festivities fill the streets with fireworks and public celebrations, reflecting both joy in the nation's autonomy and the universal celebration of the new year.

Easter Holidays (Good Friday and Easter Monday)

Easter is observed with two significant holidays, Good Friday and Easter Monday, dates for which vary each year falling in March or April. These days frame the Easter weekend, which holds profound importance in Christian traditions, commemorated by various religious and cultural events. Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ with a somber tone, while Easter Monday shifts to a more festive spirit, celebrated with unique customs such as the pomlázka tradition where boys gently whip girls' legs with willow branches to bring health and beauty.

During Easter Monday, the Prague Castle and its surroundings become a focal point for celebrations, including the traditional pomlázka custom.

• Location: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czech Republic
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM for the grounds, historical buildings from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Cost: Entry to the castle area is free; circuit tickets including exhibitions start from €10.00
• Features: As the largest ancient castle in the world, Prague Castle is the seat of the Czech president and offers visitors access to its palaces, museums, and the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral.

Liberation Day

Celebrated on May 8th, Liberation Day, also known as Victory in Europe Day, commemorates the end of occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II. In towns and cities across the Czech Republic, people pay tribute to the memory of the soldiers and civilians who suffered during the war. Ceremonies and wreath-laying at memorials are common, and the day is a reflection on the value of freedom and peace.

Saints Cyril and Methodius Day

On July 5th, the Czech Republic honors Saints Cyril and Methodius, two brothers who were Byzantine missionaries credited with spreading Christianity in the region during the 9th century. They are also celebrated for creating the Glagolitic script, which was the precursor to Cyrillic alphabets. 

Special church services and cultural events take place across Prague, including at the St. Vitus Cathedral, which hosts a mass in honor of these two missionaries.

This holiday is particularly marked with special church services and cultural events highlighting the brothers' contributions to Czech and Slavic heritage.

Jan Hus Day

Celebrated on July 6th, Jan Hus Day marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Jan Hus in 1415. Hus was a preacher, philosopher, and an early church reformer who was burned at the stake for his beliefs, which challenged the practices of the Catholic Church at the time. 

Observances for Jan Hus Day include educational exhibitions at the Clementinum, which houses a collection of medieval manuscripts.

• Location: Mariánské nám. 5, 110 00 Staré Město, Czech Republic
• Hours: Guided tours available from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Cost: Tours start from €10.00
• Features: Home to one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the Clementinum is also famed for its Baroque architecture, historical library, and a functioning astronomical observatory.

This day is a national holiday symbolizing the fight against oppression and the quest for religious reform. Various commemorations are held, including lectures and exhibitions dedicated to his life and teachings.

Czech Statehood Day

September 28th is Czech Statehood Day, also known as St. Wenceslas Day. This day commemorates the patron saint of the Czech state, St. Wenceslas, who was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935. The holiday not only celebrates his legacy but also the long history of Czech statehood. Major events include a national wreath-laying ceremony at St. Wenceslas statue in Prague and various cultural festivities that celebrate Czech heritage.

Independence Day

October 28th marks the day in 1918 when Czechoslovakia declared its independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Known as Independent Czechoslovak State Day, it is celebrated with national pride and various events, including parades, concerts, and public speeches by politicians and dignitaries. Schools and public offices are closed as the nation celebrates its birth and remembers the contributions of its forebearers to its freedom.

Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day

November 17th is recognized as the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day, commemorating two significant moments in Czech history: the student demonstration against Nazi occupation in 1939, and the start of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which led to the downfall of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. This day is marked by a range of events, from solemn remembrances to educational events and discussions centered around the themes of freedom and democracy.

Educational events and discussions take place at the John Lennon Wall, a symbol of freedom and rebellion.

Christmas Holidays

The Christmas holidays, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and St. Stephen's Day (December 24th to 26th), are a time of festive celebration, where Czech traditions come to the forefront. Christmas markets light up the squares, traditional Czech Christmas meals are prepared, and families gather to celebrate in a spirit of warmth and togetherness. The streets are adorned with decorations, and the air is filled with the melody of Christmas carols, making it a magical time to experience the Czech Republic's festive spirit.

How to Experience Czech Holidays in Prague

Experiencing Czech holidays in Prague offers a unique opportunity to delve into the vibrant cultural and historical life of the capital city. Each holiday provides a distinct perspective on Prague's traditions, making the city a focal point for festivities that are both deeply rooted in history and bursting with contemporary vibrancy.

Participating in Local Traditions and Celebrations

One of the best ways to experience Czech holidays in Prague is to immerse yourself in local customs and celebrations. During Easter, the famous Prague Easter markets on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square come alive with stalls selling hand-painted Easter eggs, traditional crafts, and seasonal treats like braided pastries. 

The festive atmosphere is heightened by folk music and dance performances that showcase Czech cultural heritage. During the Christmas season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its renowned Christmas markets. The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, and the sight of beautifully decorated trees create a magical setting. Participating in these traditions offers visitors a taste of Prague’s festive spirit.

Holiday-Related Attractions and Events

Throughout the year, Prague’s calendar is dotted with public celebrations and events that highlight the city’s rich history and cultural life. On St. Wenceslas Day, a national holiday commemorating the patron saint of the Czech Republic, visitors can witness solemn ceremonies at Wenceslas Square and explore the National Museum, which often features exhibitions related to Czech statehood and history. Independence Day celebrations in October are marked by military parades and fireworks, particularly around the area of the National Memorial on Vitkov Hill, providing a powerful display of national pride.

• Location: Václavské nám. 68, 110 00 Nové Město, Czech Republic
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Cost: Entry ticket starts from €9.00
• Features: The largest museum in the Czech Republic; showcases extensive collections ranging from historical artifacts to natural sciences; focal point for exhibitions related to Czech history, particularly during national holidays.

Cultural and Festive Events to Attend

Prague's vibrant cultural scene comes to the forefront during public holidays. Attending a concert or opera at the National Theatre during these times can be particularly rewarding, as special performances are often staged to coincide with national celebrations. The Prague Spring International Music Festival, starting on May 12th, coincides with several May holidays and showcases an array of classical music performances by international artists, making it a cultural highlight of the spring season.

• Location: Národní 2, 110 00 Nové Město, Czech Republic
• Hours: Performance times vary; typically evenings from 7:00 PM
• Cost: Ticket prices vary widely, starting from €10.00
• Features: A landmark of Czech culture and art; hosts prestigious opera, ballet, and drama performances, often celebrating Czech history and culture during public holidays.

Traditional Foods and Drinks to Try

No holiday visit to Prague would be complete without indulging in the city's culinary offerings. During the Easter and Christmas markets, try traditional Czech foods such as "trdelník" (a sweet pastry), "svařák" (hot mulled wine), and various types of sausages from outdoor stalls.

Sampling holiday specialties at renowned food venues around Prague, especially during the festive season, rounds out the holiday experience. 

The festive periods are also great times to experience hearty Czech cuisine in local restaurants, where dishes like "pečená kachna" (roast duck with cabbage) and "svíčková na smetaně" (marinated sirloin) are served as part of the celebratory fare.