Czech Holidays: Public Holidays, Traditions, and Celebrations Throughout the Year 🇨🇿🎉
The Czech Republic, with its rich history and vibrant culture, celebrates a variety of holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the country's traditions, religious heritage, and historical milestones. Whether you're planning a visit or simply want to learn more about Czech customs, this guide will provide insight into the major holidays celebrated in the Czech Republic.
January 1 - New Year's Day (Nový Rok) & Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State
New Year's Day in the Czech Republic is celebrated with fireworks, parties, and festive gatherings. It's a time for families and friends to come together and welcome the new year. Many Czechs also observe traditional customs, such as eating lentils for good luck and fortune in the coming year.
Alongside New Year's celebrations, January 1st is also the Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State (Den obnovy samostatného českého státu). This holiday commemorates the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia in 1993 and the establishment of the modern Czech Republic. It's a day of national pride, marked by official ceremonies, presidential speeches, and reflections on the country's democratic development. While many people primarily celebrate the new year, this state holiday adds historical significance to the first day of January, reminding Czechs of their nation's sovereignty and the milestones that shaped its independence.
January 6: Three Kings Day aka Epiphany (Tři Králové)
Epiphany, or Three Kings' Day, marks the end of the Christmas season. On this day, children dress as the Three Wise Men and go from house to house singing carols and collecting donations for charity. In many homes, it is also the time when Christmas decorations are taken down.
Variable Dates (first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox): Easter (Velikonoce)
Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in the Czech Republic, celebrated with unique and vibrant traditions. The festivities include:
- Pomlázka: Men and boys create braided willow whips and gently tap women and girls on the legs to ensure health and beauty. In return, women give them decorated eggs, ribbons, or sweets.
- Decorated Eggs (Kraslice): Hand-painted and intricately decorated eggs are a central part of Easter celebrations. They are often exchanged as gifts or used for decoration.
- Easter Markets: Cities like Prague and Brno host lively Easter markets, where visitors can buy traditional crafts, food, and decorations.
4. Labor Day (Svátek práce) - May 1
Labor Day is a public holiday dedicated to workers and the labor movement. It is also known as "May Day" and is celebrated with parades, cultural events, and public gatherings. Additionally, May 1 is associated with love and romance in Czech culture, often celebrated by couples with a kiss under a blooming cherry tree.
5. Liberation Day (Den vítězství) - May 8
Liberation Day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe and the liberation of Czechoslovakia from Nazi occupation. It is a day of remembrance and tribute to those who fought for freedom. Various ceremonies and events take place across the country, including military parades and historical reenactments.
6. Saints Cyril and Methodius Day (Den slovanských věrozvěstů Cyrila a Metoděje) - July 5
This day honors Saints Cyril and Methodius, two Byzantine brothers who brought Christianity and the Glagolitic alphabet to the Slavic peoples. Celebrations often include religious services, cultural events, and educational activities highlighting their contributions to Czech history and culture.
7. Jan Hus Day (Den upálení mistra Jana Husa) - July 6
Jan Hus Day commemorates the martyrdom of Jan Hus, a religious reformer who was burned at the stake in 1415 for his beliefs. He is a national hero in the Czech Republic, and this day is marked with memorial services, educational events, and public discussions about his impact on Czech history and the Protestant Reformation.
8. Czech Statehood Day (Den české státnosti) - September 28
Also known as St. Wenceslas Day, this holiday celebrates the legacy of Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech Republic. It is a day of national pride and reflection on Czech history and culture. Festivities often include church services, historical reenactments, and cultural performances.
9. Independent Czechoslovak State Day (Den vzniku samostatného československého státu) - October 28
This holiday marks the establishment of Czechoslovakia in 1918, following the end of World War I. It is a day of national pride and remembrance, celebrated with official ceremonies, parades, and public speeches highlighting the country's journey to independence.
Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day (Den boje za svobodu a demokracii) - November 17
This day commemorates two significant events in Czech history: the student protests against Nazi occupation in 1939 and the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which led to the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia. It is a day to honor the fight for freedom and democracy, with events including commemorative ceremonies, public discussions, and educational activities.
Christmas (Vánoce) - December 24-26
- Advent - Christmas Markets: Throughout December, cities and towns are adorned with Christmas markets offering traditional crafts, festive foods, and holiday decorations.
- St. Nicholas Day (Mikuláš): On December 5, the eve of St. Nicholas Day, children receive visits from St. Nicholas, an angel, and a devil, who bring small gifts and sweets for well-behaved children and a reminder to be good for those who have misbehaved.
- Christmas in the Czech Republic is a magical time filled with traditions and festive cheer. Key elements of Czech Christmas celebrations include:
- Christmas Eve (Štědrý den): The main celebration occurs on December 24, with families gathering for a festive meal that often includes fish soup and fried carp with potato salad. After dinner, children eagerly await the arrival of Ježíšek (Baby Jesus), who brings gifts. Boží hod a Štěpána
Conclusion
The Czech Republic's holidays offer a deep dive into its rich cultural and historical heritage. From religious observances and national commemorations to festive celebrations, each holiday provides a unique glimpse into the traditions and values that shape Czech society. Whether you are visiting during Easter, celebrating Christmas, or reflecting on historical milestones, these holidays provide a meaningful and enriching experience.
Poznámky
proklik na Velikonoce
udělat Vánoce samostatně a pak dát proklik
Proklik na Štědrý den
Prokliky na další svátky
📸 Some photos used under Creative Commons license. Full image credits here.
Authors of the article: Kristian & Anna