Wednesday, November 27, 2024
On October 28, 2024, Czechia commemorates Independence Day, marking the founding of an independent Czechoslovakia.
This year, the holiday falls on a Monday, and many stores across the country will be impacted by legal closures. According to Czech law, retail stores with a sales area over 200 m² must remain closed on this day. Here’s what you need to know about which stores will be closed, which will remain open, and alternative shopping options.
Retail chains with large locations, including supermarkets and hypermarkets, will be closed on Monday, October 28. This includes major chains like Albert, Billa, Globus, Kaufland, Lidl, Penny, and Tesco, as well as Tesco Expres outlets.
However, small stores with a sales area under 200 m², as well as certain essential locations, will continue operating. This includes:
Online shopping remains an option, with platforms like Rohlík.cz, Košík.cz, Albert Online, and Billa Online available for holiday orders. Tesco Online services, however, will not be operational, as they source deliveries from closed hypermarkets.
A few selected locations and outlets in key transit areas will be open on October 28. These exceptions include:
The Makro wholesale chain also remains open, as it’s considered a wholesaler and is not subject to the same restrictions.
Some shopping centers in Prague will open but with restrictions. In line with the law, stores larger than 200 m² within these centers will be closed:
Are you ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Econverse Prague, the first-ever international edition of Econverse, offers young innovators like you a chance to showcase your ideas, gain essential business skills, and compete for exciting prizes.
The first edition of Econverse Prague will take place on November 1-2, 2024, at NEWTON University. This event, held entirely in English, is made possible through the support of several key partners – NEWTON University, the International Visegrad Fund, the Aspen Institute Central Europe, and Orange – all dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people in Central and Eastern Europe.
Econverse – the largest teen startup hub in CEE – has left a lasting impact on Poland’s entrepreneurial landscape, having directly engaged 3,500+ participants, forming partnerships with over 20 major industry players, and distributing over 40,000€ in prizes.
The organization’s flagship events, including the Econverse FUSE at Warsaw’s National Stadium, have attracted high-profile speakers and mentors from both academia and industry, including Natalia Brzeziński, Rafał Brzoska, and Stefan Batory. By combining innovative education methodologies with real-world application, Econverse is already bridging the gap between traditional schooling and the practical skills required in today’s fast-paced startup ecosystem. Now, with Econverse V4, it aims to replicate its impact internationally.
Econverse Prague is part of the prestigious Econverse V4, a startup simulation backed by the International Visegrad Fund. It expands the Econverse model to Central and Eastern Europe, offering participants an immersive, hands-on experience that mirrors the realities of launching a startup. The event not only builds critical entrepreneurial skills but also provides invaluable networking opportunities with peers and mentors from across the region.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just beginning to explore the startup world, Econverse Prague offers the perfect platform to grow, collaborate, and innovate. This competition is designed to help you develop the practical skills and connections needed to thrive in the startup ecosystem.
Don’t miss your chance to take part in this one-of-a-kind event at NEWTON University in Prague! Apply today, and seize the opportunity to bring your startup idea to the global stage.
For more information and to apply, visit Econverse V4 Prague.
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli is set to return to Prague for the eighth time, bringing his world-renowned voice to the O2 Arena in early 2026.
The January 23rd concert promises an evening of musical mastery as the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and several high-profile guest artists will join Bocelli.
For over 30 years, Bocelli has captivated audiences across the globe, earning acclaim for his rich, velvety tenor and emotional performances.
The O2 Arena concert gives his Czech fans a unique opportunity to experience his powerful vocals live in a venue perfectly suited to showcase his artistry. Tickets are already on sale.
Bocelli’s latest album, Duets, is slated for release this weekend.
This collection features some of his most beloved collaborations, including pieces with Ed Sheeran, Celine Dion, and Luciano Pavarotti. The album also introduces fresh pairings, such as tracks with Shania Twain, Chris Stapleton, and Karol G.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Bocelli’s new film, Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration, will hit theaters in November.
The documentary captures the essence of Bocelli’s artistry with footage from his three-day concert series in Lajatico, Italy, held this past July in honor of his milestone 30-year career.
Prague Zoo is bringing the magic of winter to life with its debut exhibition of Garden of Lights, featuring 110 lit sculptures representing 33 different animal species.
Along with a variety of glowing decorations and interactive installations, the Garden of Lights offers a unique opportunity for guests to explore the zoo after dark in a whole new way.
This light experience is open daily until February 16, 2025.
The exhibit’s description invites visitors to: “Get to know beautiful animals that come to life through thousands of lights. Stand beneath the towering height of an elephant, lock eyes with a massive rhinoceros, or even high-five a friendly penguin! Capture every moment of this exotic adventure at dedicated photo points.”
Dates and Admission
The Garden of Lights is open every day except for December 24 and 31. Entry costs for Monday through Thursday are set at 280 CZK for adults and 240 CZK for children under 12. Weekend tickets have slightly higher prices.
Tickets for Garden of Lights are separate from general zoo admission and do not grant access to the regular zoo exhibits.
On Saturday, October 26, Czech Airlines (ČSA) will complete its final flight as an independent company, marking the end of a 101-year legacy.
Flight OK767 from Paris to Prague will conclude an era in Czech aviation. Preceding this final arrival, ČSA will operate Flight OK766 from Prague to Paris, both routes already sold out, with remaining economy seats selling for over CZK 12,000 one-way.
The airline’s Airbus A320, is scheduled to leave Prague at 5:35 p.m. and return by 9:55 p.m.. This final flight represents more than just a journey; it’s a tribute to the airline’s impact on Czech travel and aviation.
ČSA’s financial struggles in recent years have been challenging, primarily due to fierce competition from low-cost carriers and internal management issues. These setbacks ultimately led to its absorption by Smartwings.
Following this transition, all former ČSA flights will operate under Smartwings’ QS code, effectively ending ČSA’s operational independence.
However, the ČSA brand will live on. Smartwings has decided to preserve the ČSA livery on two existing Airbus A320s, as well as on four new Airbus A220s that it will lease. The first of these A220s is expected to start service in December, with the remaining planes to join by mid-2025.
Founded in October 1923 by the Czechoslovak government, ČSA’s first journey took off only a month later, connecting Prague to Bratislava via an Aero A-14 aircraft. The single passenger on this inaugural flight was journalist Václav König from Lidové noviny.
That first year, ČSA transported 29 passengers, 10 kg of mail, and 110 kg of cargo—humble beginnings for what would become a major airline.
In 1930, ČSA expanded to international routes, starting with flights from Prague to Zagreb and later extending connections to Rijeka and Dubrovnik. Initially known as Czechoslovak Airlines, the company was rebranded as Czech Airlines on November 18, 1994.
At its peak in 2006, ČSA transported over 5.5 million passengers annually, but numbers declined as competition intensified.
In the center of Prague’s dynamic culinary scene, NUMARU offers a taste of Korea like no other.
With a passion for Korean food that traces back to his roots, founder Roy opened his first restaurant in 2017, driven by a longing for the dishes he grew up with.
Roy’s love for Korean food comes from a deep connection to the comforting flavors of home. For him, each dish is personal, and depending on who prepares it, the flavors can vary significantly. Over the past six years, Roy and his team have honed their craft, developing their own unique recipes for sauces, kimchi, and more, all tailored to suit his tastes as a typical Korean who can’t live without soju and soup.
The name Numaru—which refers to a serene spot in a traditional Korean home, reserved for welcoming special guests—reflects the restaurant’s core philosophy. Every diner is treated as a guest of honor, invited to experience an intimate blend of flavors that fuse Korean traditions with global influences.
NUMARU embraces a fusion approach, bridging unfamiliar palates by reimagining ingredients through Korean cooking. At the same time, they expand the experience for those already in love with the flavors of Korea, offering new interpretations of their favorite dishes.
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The essence of Korean dining lies in its communal and interactive nature. Unlike many Western dining experiences where meals are served individually, Korean cuisine emphasizes shared dishes, allowing diners to connect over a vibrant spread of flavors.
“We want people to feel at home,” says Roy. “Whether you’re here to try something new or rediscover a classic, our menu offers both fusion dishes and traditional favorites.”
NUMARU’s menu boasts a creative blend of Korean cuisine fused with global flavors. From signature dishes like the Mala Cream Pasta, a fusion of Korean, Chinese, and Italian flavors, each dish offers something unique. Their handmade Tteokbokki rice cakes, along with home-made sauces, are testament to the care and attention given to every dish.
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At NUMARU, it’s not just about food—it’s about the experience. The restaurant offers a range of interactive elements, from hanboks (traditional Korean clothing) available for guests to try on, to special holiday menus that ensure there is always something new to explore.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Korean cuisine or new to its flavors, NUMARU invites you to discover the art of fusion, where every meal is a celebration of tradition and innovation.
NUMARU can be found near Palladium Praha, at Truhlářská 1110/4.
The oldest known photograph of Prague was captured in 1856 by Andreas Groll, an Austrian photographer known for his dedication to documenting historic monuments.
Some of Groll’s photographs are thought to date back even further, to 1855, providing an invaluable look at Prague over 168 years ago. Many of his earliest images, which have been painstakingly preserved, can now be found in the book The Earliest Photographs of Prague 1850-1870 by Czech historian Kateřina Bečková.
Born in Vienna, Andreas Groll was one of the pioneers of 19th-century photography, with a keen interest in historic architecture and monuments. He worked with albumen prints, a technique popular at the time, which gave his images a distinctive, detailed look. Groll’s work wasn’t only about aesthetics; he sought to document Central Europe’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Looking at Groll’s photographs, it’s surprising to note how much of Prague’s historical center has endured the test of time. Key landmarks, like Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square, remain largely as they were.
However, some iconic structures have seen significant transformations. For instance, the Powder Gate—a medieval structure serving as a gateway to the Old Town—underwent extensive reconstruction in the late 19th century. Its current neo-Gothic appearance, much grander and ornate than in Groll’s photograph, is the result of this later restoration.
St. Vitus Cathedral also underwent significant changes after Groll’s time. Originally a Gothic masterpiece initiated in the 14th century, the cathedral was still incomplete in 1856. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that it was finally finished, resulting in the striking façade we see today.
What would happen if a homeless individual received CZK 100,000 with no restrictions on its use?
The answer to this question may become clear in about a year as Prague City embarks on an ambitious social experiment, the New Leaf Czech Republic project.
This initiative, launched to help people experiencing homelessness, is a first for Europe and is gaining significant attention both locally and internationally.
For many, this approach might seem controversial—directly providing funds to individuals without conditions challenges traditional methods of addressing homelessness. The issue has been long-standing, with organizations like the OECD frequently highlighting the Czech Republic’s struggles with homelessness.
In Czech society, homelessness is rarely talked about openly and is often reduced to stereotypes of drunk, unkempt people gathered around Prague’s main train station.
Yet, behind this perception lies a hidden reality: many who are homeless end up in this difficult position due to unforeseen hardships, such as the loss of a spouse, and now struggle to afford housing.
“The Czech Republic is the first European country to undertake such a project,” explains Jana Hamplová, director of the organization Neposeda. “The initiative was first trialed in Canada, where it achieved remarkable results that surprised everyone involved.”
The program provides a one-time CZK 100,000 grant to select individuals. This money is given with complete freedom in its use, mirroring the Canadian approach that yielded positive outcomes for many recipients. “We believe that this financial support will empower people to move away from the brink of homelessness,” says Hamplová.
The project’s target group comprises 40 individuals from Prague, each of whom had to meet specific criteria to qualify. Melanie Zajacová, head of the research and the Department of Social Work at Charles University, describes the requirements.
“The first criterion is that the participants must be Czech nationals. This is to ensure there are no communication barriers between them and the project team,” says Zajacová.
Another important condition is that participants must have been homeless for no more than two and a half years. Research indicates that this timeframe allows a feasible return to society since social connections are still intact. Longer periods on the streets, on the other hand, make reintegration significantly more challenging.
“The third criterion is that participants must not have an addiction to alcohol or other addictive substances,” adds Zajacová. “That doesn’t mean they have to be completely sober; moderate use is understandable, and setting a stricter requirement could undermine the project’s objectives.”
An essential component of New Leaf Czech Republic is its funding model, which seeks social investors instead of traditional donors. “These are investors, not donors. An investor expects some form of return, be it in reduced tax burdens or other financial benefits,” explains Hamplová.
The annual cost of supporting homeless individuals through government and municipal resources is considerable, averaging around two million crowns per person per year. Reducing these public expenditures was one of the major achievements of the Canadian pilot program, and the Czech team anticipates similar results.
“We adapted the Canadian model to suit local needs,” says Zajacová. “While Canada involved psychiatrists and psychologists, our project places a stronger emphasis on social workers to address social reintegration.”
The last chapter of a mysterious rave in the monastery will open on November 1st…
Once again and for the very last time Sound invites all the Prague ravers to step into the eclectic and mysterious realm of St. Gabriel monastery.
The monastery is a perfect spot to get lost in the haze of the intricate labyrinth and immerse in an atmosphere that blends the sacred with the profane, the old with the new.
The lineup offers Berlin-based Dj and producer Tigerhead and French finest Arkan accompanied by a vast number of Djs across four stages named as Chandelier Hall, Underground Crypt, Vaulted Cellar or Server Room. The event sells out every year and this year won’t be different. The tickets can be purchased via Goout.
Gabriel Loci Monastery, a hidden gem of Prague with centuries of whispered secrets, once a spiritual haven, will become the epicenter of underground sounds, where history meets the rebellious spirit and where the ancient walls will reverberate with deep basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and cutting-edge techno.
Atmosphere and art installations will be created by Multiverse Studios.
Sound will open its doors on Friday, November 1 at 9 p.m. The advance sale will be sold out soon. More important and practical info is to be found on Facebook event or in Sound FAQ.
Line up:
chandelier hall
Arkan [ Berlin / DE ]
AMB [ Lunchmeat ]
Teletext [ Amphibian / Persona ]
Tigerhead [ Berlin / DE ]
Yan [ Ankali, Harmony Rec. ]
vaulted cellar
Dash
Tobleronchik [ Kave ]
Pink Concrete [ Pinkies / hereandthere ]
Nika77 [ Moving Pictures ]
Ufi Da Man [ Sound ]
weltraum underground crypt
Axis Alpha [ Weltraum ]
Arton [ Weltraum ]
Eva Falt [ Weltraum ]
DJ Slater [ Weltraum ]
fleika [ Ankali ]
Ka.za [ Weltraum ]
server room
ELiO
Lumiere
Luke Nova [ Deepwave ]
Raketa95 [ Soft Limits ]
Waxwork
Since 2009, Prague has hosted Central Europe’s largest Halloween event, and it’s returning for 2024 with two thrilling nights of festivities.
Established in 2009, the interest and attendance alike in the party continue to grow every year since its founding.
Bloody Sexy Halloween draws out more than 7,000 regular visitors and consistently sells out year after year, making it a not-to-miss spooky spectacular in Prague, Brno & Bratislava.
The party will be held on Friday and Saturday (November 1-2), with tickets currently ranging from 450-1,300 CZK on sale via Goout.cz and Tickettailor.
Guests can expect a slew of sexy dance shows, mind-blowing performances with one-of-a-kind artists and music from a mix of both foreign and domestic DJs.
DJs lineup: Jonas, Djousha, diazandbruno, Jose Freedom, Mahrouse, DJ Illegal and more!
One of the main features of the event is of course The Bloody Sexy Costume Contest! For the contest, attendees are encouraged to show up in their most elaborate, bewildering costumes, make-ups and explore their creativity to the maximum for a chance to win a whopping 40,000 CZK cash prize on the spot!
Registered costumes will be judged by a jury of three members observing the following criteria: “creativity, originality, sensuality, scary and witty.”
Those who advance to finals will be informed beforehand, and return to the jury table later in the night for judgment on who advances to the finale.
In the final round which begins at midnight, participants will take center stage to compete against each other. The winner will then be chosen based on the audience’s reaction and applause.
For table reservations or groups please contact [email protected]
American-Jewish Actor Irwin Appel Speaks About Playing Shylock in Prague Shakespeare Company’s The Merchant of Venice at the Estates Theatre
Prague Shakespeare Company (PSC), the professional English-language theatre of the Czech Republic, now celebrating its 17th year and 10-year anniversary of their historic collaboration with Národní divadlo, is premiering a new English-language production of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice at the Estates Theatre on 2 November 2024. You can get your ticket here.
The production, directed by PSC Artistic Director Guy Roberts, features Czech surtitle translation by Martin Hilský and stars several PSC audience favorites, including Karel Heřmánek ml. and his younger brother František, making his professional stage debut.
The well-regarded American-Jewish actor Irwin Appel plays the role of Shylock. Prague Morning had the chance to sit down with Irwin to discuss the production, the role of Shylock, and the significance of this controversial play.
PM: Why Shakespeare?
Irwin: As an actor, it is immensely satisfying to fully embody and embrace work that is both unapologetically epic and deeply personal. Prague Shakespeare Company has allowed me to play two of the greatest roles an actor can ever play in my opinion: Sir John Falstaff in Henry IV, Part 1, and now Shylock in The Merchant of Venice.
PM: As a Jewish actor, why do you want to play Shylock?
Irwin: Shylock haunts me—I love him. I don’t say that lightly. He is deeply flawed, at times barbaric, but to me, it all comes from a deep sense of loss, rage, and helplessness. I’ve based my characterization on the idea of someone who’s been bullied all his life and finally snaps. Plus, the language is so delicious to speak—it feels very truthful to me as I speak each line.
I’m a very secular Jew, proud of my family and culture. At the root of Judaism is humanism, creativity, and humor. I believe Shylock has an underappreciated sense of humor—he’s funny! When I speak lines like “Hath not a Jew eyes,” I connect with a rich, multi-dimensional, human character. Shylock is not a “stock villain,” but one of the most human characters Shakespeare ever wrote.
Irwin Appel
PM: Is The Merchant of Venice an anti-Semitic play, and should it be performed now?
Irwin: The Merchant of Venice is about bigotry as a whole, not just anti-Semitism, and it lays that bigotry bare. The racism in the language spewed by the “good” Christian society is palpable. I believe Shakespeare was criticizing society. It’s an excellent time to perform The Merchant of Venice, though I understand why others might disagree. I don’t think it’s up to me to decide whether art should be done or not. My job is to dive in and let the audience decide.
PM: Your real-life daughter, Phoebe Appel, plays Shylock’s daughter, Jessica, in this production. How is it working with your daughter?
Irwin: I can’t express the joy I feel working with Phoebe. She’s an extraordinary person, and I’ll cherish this experience forever. Knowing she’s my real daughter might bring the audience closer to Shylock’s emotional life. I don’t think Shylock ever intended to take Antonio’s flesh; it’s only after losing his daughter that he seeks vengeance.
PM: What kind of performance should we expect?
Irwin: The atmosphere will be electric, and the historical context mixed with the play’s uneasy bigotry will resonate with audiences. We perform just days before one of the most critical elections in U.S. history. This is the perfect time for The Merchant of Venice. Guy Roberts’ adaptation is outstanding, and the show will be powerful, timely, exciting, funny, tragic, and entertaining. We’re giving our hearts to create an unforgettable experience at one of the most beautiful theatres in the world. Don’t miss it!
PM: You have a highly regarded theatre background in the U.S., including graduating from Juilliard. What excites you about Prague Shakespeare Company?
Irwin: I’m honored to be an Associate Artist of PSC. Guy Roberts is one of the most ground-breaking and generous Artistic Directors I’ve ever known. Artists from around the world love working with PSC because of him. PSC has an international reach, even providing a home for Ukrainian theater artists after the Russian invasion. They’re expanding projects and tours across Europe, making PSC a hub for English-language Shakespeare.
PM: What makes Prague special for you, and do you have a favorite food?
Irwin: Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with an extraordinary history. It wasn’t bombed like other European cities. I love that after communism fell, Czechoslovakia’s first president was a playwright!
The Czechs chose a theater artist to lead them into a free future—America could learn from that! As for food, beer is food, right? You can’t beat Czech beer. I’ve also visited the old Jewish cemetery twice; it’s deeply moving. Now that I’m playing Shylock, I plan to visit again to connect with the history and emotion there.
Prague Shakespeare Company in association with Národní divadlo presents:
Heading to Prague’s city center this weekend? Brace yourself for significant public transportation interruptions.
Starting Thursday, October 24th, and running through Monday, October 28th, some tram and metro services will be disrupted due to scheduled line repairs. Key sections will be temporarily closed, leading to rerouted services and the introduction of replacement buses.
National Theatre to Jiráskovo náměstí
From Thursday, October 24th, through Monday, October 28th, tram service between the National Theatre and Jiráskovo náměstí will be halted in both directions. This is due to ongoing repairs on the Masaryk Embankment tram line. Trams on lines 17 and 28 will be diverted via Národní třída and Myslíkova stops. The Prague Public Transport Company (DPP) will not provide replacement bus services in this area, so passengers should seek alternative routes.
Dělnická to Nádraží Holešovice and Ke Stírce
Further disruptions will impact tram lines 1, 17, 25, and 93 between Dělnická, Nádraží Holešovice, and Ke Stírce. Service on these lines will be interrupted briefly from the night of Thursday, October 24th, to Friday, October 25th. Replacement bus services will be available for affected passengers during this time.
Muzeum to Kačerov Section
Metro passengers using line C should also prepare for service suspensions from Saturday, October 26th, to Monday, October 28th. Track repairs will close the section between Muzeum and Kačerov, and passengers will need to rely on replacement bus service XC, which will operate between Hlavní nádraží, Muzeum, I.P. Pavlova, Vyšehrad, Pražského povstání, Pankrác, Budějovická, and Kačerov.
In addition, for passengers using bus lines 189 and 215, the Kačerov boarding stop will be temporarily relocated. Bus lines 138 and 193 heading towards Nemocnice Krč will also see their stops moved to the head of platform 106 at Kačerov station.
