There is no such thing as boredom in Prague. Just like all other months, May is also full of events of all kinds. It’s getting incredibly hard to resist the temptation to take a walk in delightful weather such as this. And even in case of occassional rain or thunder, there’s no reason to despair because there are plenty of churches, museums, galleries and many other sights and monuments whose doors are open whatever the weather. If you haven’t made up your mind yet, below is a list of May events in Prague which are worth visiting.
Prague Spring
May 12 – June 6, 2018
The 73rd International Music Festival Prague Spring kicks off in only a few days. The first piece to be played by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in Obecní Dům (Municipal House) is Smetana’s My Fatherland (under the baton of Tomáš Netopil this time round). This is arguably the most significant classical music event in the country with over 50 classical concerts by Czech ensembles as well as guests from abroad being offered. What makes this year special is it celebrates the 100th anniversary of the date the Czechoslovak Republic was established. Also commemorated will be the 100th anniversary of the day Leonard Bernstein was born. Bernstein, the American conductor, composer, music teacher and popularizer that has appeared countless times on TV, probably needs no further introduction. The program lasts for 3 weeks and is sure to satisfy all classical music buffs.
Food&Culture Festival at Kulaťák
May 12 at Kulaťák, Prague 6
Gourmets, rejoice! A farmers market which is to take place at Kulaťák on May 12, promises to bring a truly unique experience. The square is to turn into a vibrant showroom where cuisines from all over the globe are represented. This is your chance to treat your taste buds to traditional as well as exotic dishes and drinks of all kinds. The gastronomic festival will be accompanied by a rich cultural program too to ensure you’re entertained all through it.
A cycling trip of a lifetime
May 12, Václavské náměstí (Wenceslaus Square)
If doing some exercise is what you’re up to, how about a cycling trip on May 12? This will be a huge cycling event consisting of a large number of cyclists heading for Wenceslaus Square in the four cardinal directions. Good news is by taking part you not only do something for your health. You also help a good cause, which is to demonstrate to the Prague Town Hall supporting bike transportation makes sense. You can leave Břetislavka and take the north-eastern route that starts off at tram terminal station Sídliště Řepy at 1pm. Continue along the A15 via Hvězda, Petřiny, Veleslavín, Šárecké údolí, Podbaba, Stromovka, Revoluční and Wenceslaus Square. The journey is not very demanding so don’t be afraid you will sweat to death.
The peloton then leave the square at about 2:45pm and continue via Nuselský Bridge to the inner courtyard of Petrohradská kolektiv, an arts organization, where you can grill a sausage and dance at an afterparty. If it sounds cool, that’s because it really is!
Prague Food Festival 2018
It seems late May is dedicated to delicious food. The 12th traditional 3-day open air food festival takes place in Vyšehrad. It is to bring a number of Czech star chefs, bartenders and delicatessen creators. Discounted tickets to the festival may be purchased in advance by May 21. Alternatively, you can get yourself a ticket at the doors. The price is CZK 500 (300 of which can be exchanged for the delicious dishes on display).
The 2018 Church Night
May 25, 2018 6pm-11pm
The last Friday in May is to turn into a holy day of sorts. This is because a number of churches, towers, sacristies, chapels and cloisters that are normally closed to the public will open on that day. The organizers seek to popularize Christinity not only during commented evening tours but also by cultural programs, concerts and theatrical performances. In addition, you can try playing the organ, descend to the ancient crypts and lots more.
In Prague, there are plenty of things going on each day. Andrea Bocelli, the legendary Italian operatic tenor, has a show in the 02 Arena in Prague on May 12. If this is something you’ve missed, don’t worry. Tickets are still available. And a piece of great news for rosé wine enthusiasts: Rašínovo nábřeží hosts a degustation festival of rosé wines and clarets (Pink May) on Saturday May 19. So if you feel like having a glass of delicious rosé, Náplavka is the place to go.
The Břetislavka Residence team wish you an incredible time spent in the Czech capital.
