The Coca-Cola truck is making its way to the Czech Republic and Slovakia this Christmas!

​Coca-Cola’s ‘The Real Magic Christmas Experience’ is coming to over 30 cities in the Czech Republic and 20 in Slovakia.

The theme of the Christmas campaign, “Christmas Always Finds a Way”, is based on the idea that “Christmas is an unstoppable force that will find a way through anything to bring back the joy, togetherness, generosity and true magic around the festive season and holiday food”.

The trucks, which were first introduced in 1995, will also support the campaign after a hiatus caused by the pandemic. It will also include collaborations with influencers, such as Czech group Mirai, and a competition on the Coca-Cola app to win a trip to the North Pole.

“Coca-Cola trucks have become a popular tradition that brings Christmas magic to Czech and Slovak cities. Christmas always finds a way to bring families, friends and often complete strangers together through magical moments spent together,” says Mária Drotárová, Coca-Cola brand manager for the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

The roadshow in the Czech Republic will start on 24 November in Čáslav and end on 22 December in Stupava. At each stop, there will be an accompanying program with Santa and elves, a Coca-Cola Food Truck with hot Christmas soft punch from FuzeTea and a Coca-Cola Christmas drink with cinnamon and savory snacks.

In Prague, the Christmas truck will be stationed for two days—December 6 and 7 (Friday and Saturday)—at the PVA Letňany exhibition center in the Letňany district.

 

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The program will always start at 4 p.m., with Santa arriving a half hour later and staying until 6:30 p.m.

As part of the roadshow, Coca-Cola has teamed up with the Czech and Slovak Red Cross.

Proceeds from the sale of food, drink and merchandising at each stop will go to support the non-profit organization Help Trans project, which helps with the mobility of seniors, the disabled or children.

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The “housing affordability crisis” is a frequent topic in Czech newspapers and political debates, but is housing truly unaffordable across the entire country?

We examined the cost of buying an apartment for a Prague resident versus a resident in the Karlovy Vary region, uncovering stark differences in housing access between Prague and other regions.

Prague’s Housing Crisis: Not Representative of All Czechia

Housing (un)affordability is typically evaluated by looking at the number of newly built apartments. However, new apartments from the past thirty years make up only about 10% of all housing stock in Czechia, most of which are in Prague.

Consequently, the high cost of housing in the capital skews the perception of nationwide affordability. In reality, housing supply hasn’t kept up with demand in Prague, leading to persistently high prices.

To gain a realistic picture of housing affordability across Czechia, it’s essential to consider smaller towns and regions outside of Prague, as well as older housing stock, which makes up the bulk of available homes.

The Cost of a Typical Apartment: Prague vs. Regions

For comparison, let’s consider a standard 70-square-meter apartment in an older building. Such apartments are common across Czechia in both panel and brick houses.

On average, a Czech worker would need about 8.1 years of gross annual salary to purchase this type of apartment. However, when broken down by region, housing affordability varies considerably. While average wages don’t fluctuate much from region to region, the difference in property prices is striking.

Housing Costs: Prague vs. Karlovy Vary Region

Prague remains the most expensive place to own a home. While the average salary in Prague is nearly 25% higher than the national average, the average price per square meter is nearly double.

For an older apartment, buyers can expect to pay around 120,000 CZK/m², bringing the total cost for a 70 m² apartment to nearly 8.4 million CZK. For someone earning the average Prague salary of 56,144 CZK, this equates to roughly 12.4 years of gross income.

In contrast, housing is significantly more affordable in the Karlovy Vary region, where the average gross wage is among the lowest in the country, at around 39,031 CZK. Here, a buyer would need only five years of income to purchase the same 70 m² apartment, priced at around 2.5 million CZK—less than a third of the cost of a similar apartment in Prague.

Affordable Housing in Ústí nad Labem and Other Regions

Even more affordable is the Ústí nad Labem Region, where older apartments currently have the lowest prices in the country. The average gross salary in Ústí nad Labem is around 42,801 CZK, roughly 7% below the national average. Despite this, property costs remain low, with prices averaging around 30,000 CZK per square meter. Here, an individual earning the regional average salary would need just 4.1 years of gross income to buy a 70 m² apartment.

Other regions, including South Bohemia, Plzeň, Zlín, and Vysočina, also offer relatively affordable housing. In these areas, a 70-square-meter older apartment typically costs under eight years’ worth of gross salary. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the South Moravian region—driven largely by high prices in Brno—stands as the second least affordable area after Prague, with a similar apartment requiring 10.1 years of gross income.

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Prague Shakespeare Company announced the return of their English-language smash-hit comedy: The Thanksgiving Play by Larissa Fasthorse on 20 & 26 November at Divadlo Na Pradle.

The production is directed by Josh Morrison and stars Jenn Kirk, Genevieve Gionet, Scott Sophos, and Pavel Caldr.

We had a chance to sit down with two stars of the play, Genevieve Gionet and Pavel Caldr, to discuss the production and the American holiday Thanksgiving.

About The Thanksgiving Play

The Thanksgiving Play is a very funny play about “wokeness” and the obsession with being politically correct. It’s an insightful, hilariously painful examination of attitudes about identity, the arts, and audiences.

What is your favorite thing about the play?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: Each character is an extreme version of their archetype. It makes the ironies and satire of the play that much more ridiculous and fun.

PAVEL CALDR: I love the overall vibe and hilarious interactions between the four very different characters and their understanding of the world. They are all deeply flawed and very, very funny people.

Who is your character and what do you love about your character?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: I am playing Logan, the theatre teacher who is at risk of getting fired should she make one wrong move. Logan has the best intentions but is pulled in many different directions. She is relatable and lovable.

PAVEL CALDR: My character is Caden, an elementary school teacher of history, invited as a history specialist to maintain historical accuracy in the play they are creating. His dream is to become a professional playwright. He is the most enthusiastic of the characters because he believes his dreams are being fulfilled within this play. Or so he thinks.

Thanksgiving Traditions

What are your favorite Thanksgiving traditions? And Pavel, as the only Czech in a cast of Americans, what do you make of the American Thanksgiving holiday?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: During Thanksgiving, my family back in Colorado has an ax-throwing contest. We try to hit a tree stump with axes. Although I am not the best ax thrower, they are great memories.

PAVEL CALDR: For me, The Thanksgiving Play was a chance to familiarize myself with this specific American holiday. I had some classes about it in high school but barely remembered anything. It was exciting to learn the history behind this American holiday.

Favorites in Prague and Czech Cuisine

What is your favorite place in Prague and what is your favorite Czech food?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: My favorite place in Prague is probably Riegrovy Sady Park for the amazing view and nice memories I have there. As for Czech food, I really enjoy Dukátové buchtičky s vanilkovým krémem.

PAVEL CALDR: My favorite Czech food is probably Svíčková, and as every Czech person knows, it always tastes the best when it’s made by your grandma or mother. My favorite place is probably Petřín hill in summer when you can lie in the orchard between the cherry trees.

Special Timing for The Thanksgiving Play

What is special about reviving The Thanksgiving Play, especially this close to the US Presidential elections?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: The Thanksgiving Play, despite the jokes and ridiculousness, is thought-provoking. It raises important questions about intention versus impact and “woke” culture. Larissa FastHorse uses humor to get her message across. She is a brilliant playwright.

What should audiences expect from The Thanksgiving Play?

GENEVIEVE GIONET: If you want to laugh for a night, this is a great play for you. If you’re interested in work about the current cultural zeitgeist, this is also for you. And you don’t need to know about Thanksgiving to enjoy it. I hope that you come to see it!

PAVEL CALDR: Fun, deep thoughts, gobbling turkeys, and maybe a rap song. Want to know more? Come see us.

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The Thanksgiving Play by Larissa Fasthorse

• Directed by Josh Morrison
• Performed in English
• Venue: Divadlo Na Pradle
• Dates: 20 & 26 November 2024
• Starring: Jenn Kirk, Genevieve Gionet, Scott Sophos, Pavel Caldr

Tickets are available through GOOUT.CZ:

• 20 November at 19:00: Link to Tickets
• 26 November at 19:00: Link to Tickets

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A new direct route between Brno Airport and Rome is set to launch in spring 2025, expanding travel options for passengers seeking convenient access to Italy’s capital.

The announcement follows recent news of a route to Malaga, Spain, marking yet another milestone in Brno’s growing international connections.

This upcoming nonstop flight from Brno to Rome will connect Tuřany Airport with Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, allowing travelers to reach Rome directly.

“Tickets are expected to go on sale later this year,” shared Petr Minařík, who hinted that more details could follow as the launch date approaches. This new flight to Rome is part of Brno Airport’s ongoing efforts to expand its European routes and enhance regional connectivity.

Brno Airport has already boosted its offerings with a new route to Malaga, complementing its existing connections to London and Bergamo. Talks are also underway for potential direct flights to Amsterdam, according to Minařík, indicating continued growth in Brno’s flight network.

Z Brna do Říma. Nová pravidelná linka bude od jara létat z brněnského letiště. https://t.co/Sygzo0nFSW

— Události Brno (@UdalostiBrno) November 7, 2024

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Prague welcomed 5.88 million tourists between January and September 2024, an 8% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

German, American, and British visitors topped the list of international arrivals, while domestic tourism remained stable, with Czech tourists now making up 20% of total visitors.

This growth, as noted by Prague City Tourism (PCT) spokesperson Klára Janderová, includes a substantial rise in Asian tourists—thanks in part to renewed regular flights to and from Asian destinations.

Record Numbers for Top International Markets

The CZSO data reveals that the highest numbers of tourists by country of origin came from Germany (778,932 visitors), the United States (361,347 visitors), and Great Britain (320,323 visitors). These markets have continued to play a central role in Prague’s tourism economy, sustaining the city’s appeal for both European and overseas visitors.

Prague’s popularity among Asian travelers has also resurged, with 632,078 visitors from Asia so far this year—a 25% increase year-over-year. This spike is largely attributed to the revival of regular air routes connecting Prague with key Asian cities, significantly boosting the city’s international tourism profile.

Domestic Tourism Remains Strong

In addition to international tourism, domestic visitors have consistently traveled to Prague, with 1,143,591 Czechs visiting the capital in 2024 so far. The busiest period for local tourism was during the summer months, when 241,088 Czech tourists visited—almost the same figure as in summer 2022, indicating steady interest in Prague as a preferred travel destination for locals.

“The fact that Prague remains popular with domestic tourists is excellent news for the city,” said František Cipro, Chairman of the Board of Prague City Tourism. “These visitors, familiar with Czech culture, often return, and it’s encouraging that they now make up 20% of all visitors to Prague.”

Future Plans for Attracting Tourists to Prague

Prague’s Deputy Mayor for Culture and Tourism, Jiří Pospíšil, expressed optimism about the city’s tourism growth, especially the increase in domestic visitors.

“It’s satisfying to see that local visitors now account for a fifth of all tourists. We will continue to promote Prague as a premier European cultural destination for both Czech and international tourists,” Pospíšil stated. This commitment is reflected in ongoing marketing campaigns and cultural initiatives aimed at enhancing Prague’s image as a vibrant and diverse city with attractions for all.

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Prague’s Christmas markets are back for the 2024 holiday season, offering an enchanting atmosphere, festive foods, and unique crafts.

This guide details the schedule and locations for some of Prague’s most popular Christmas markets, each bringing its own charm to the holiday festivities.

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Christmas Market at Náměstí Míru

Located near the Church of St. Ludmila, this popular market features a classic holiday selection of gingerbread, Christmas ornaments, candles, and traditional Czech treats. The Peace Square market is easily accessible, right outside the Náměstí Míru metro station (Line A).

• Address: náměstí Míru, Prague 2
• Dates: November 20 – December 24
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

 

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Christmas Market at Náměstí Republiky

Just steps from the Republic Square metro station on the yellow line, this market offers an array of festive goods and a Christmas tree lot for those wishing to take home a piece of Prague’s holiday spirit.

• Address: náměstí Republiky, Prague 1
• Dates: November 25 – December 24
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

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Christmas Market at Tylovo náměstí

Near the I.P. Pavlova metro station, Tylovo náměstí hosts a smaller market catering primarily to locals, with a focus on ready-made holiday foods and fresh produce. Just a short walk or one tram stop from Peace Square, this market offers a cozy neighborhood vibe.

• Address: Tylovo náměstí, Prague 2
• Dates: November 26 – December 24
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

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Christmas Market at Mariánské náměstí

Situated in Prague’s center opposite the town hall, this market offers standard holiday fare including hot drinks and festive snacks. A small stage showcases performances by children’s music groups, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.

• Address: Mariánské náměstí, Prague 1
• Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025
• Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

 

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Old Town Square Christmas Market

The heart of Prague’s holiday scene, the Old Town Square Christmas Market draws thousands daily. Highlights include a small petting area with live sheep, goats, and ponies for children, as well as demonstrations by local artisans. Expect a festive evening on Saturday, November 30, when Prague’s main Christmas tree will be lit around 4:00 p.m.

• Address: Staroměstské náměstí, Prague 1, Old Town
• Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 6, 2025
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Food stalls until midnight)

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Christmas Market at Wenceslas Square

Located in the lower part of Wenceslas Square near the Můstek metro station, this market caters primarily to visitors, operating nearly a week after New Year’s. It’s a great spot to savor traditional Czech foods or pick up handcrafted souvenirs.

• Address: Wenceslas Square, Prague 1, New Town
• Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 6, 2025
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Food stalls until midnight)

 

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Christmas Market at Jiřího z Poděbrady Square

The Jiřího z Poděbrady market, near the metro station of the same name, offers a mix of artisanal treats, farm products, and handmade items. With a stage for daily performances by choirs, magicians, and folk groups, this market is particularly family-friendly. Young visitors can join creative workshops or savor traditional dishes like baked goose and potato salad.

• Address: náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, Prague 3
• Dates: December 1 – December 22
• Hours: Daily, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

 

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Christmas Market on Kampa Island

This cozy market on Kampa Island near Charles Bridge offers traditional food, farm products, and a festive setting by the Vltava River. Expect performances from local musicians, creating a magical holiday experience.

• Address: Kampa, Prague 1 – Malá Strana
• Dates: December 1, 2024 – January 2, 2025
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

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On Wednesday, November 6, Prague’s District 3 initiated the replacement of outdated green street bins with new, modernized grey waste bins.

These upgraded bins, made from durable plastic, include a unique QR code on each unit, enabling residents to quickly report any issues through the Změňte.to app.

This rollout marks the pilot phase of a broader project led by the Prague Technical Communications Authority (TSK) in partnership with the Prague Institute of Planning and Development.

As part of this initial phase, 150 new bins are being deployed throughout District 3, with an additional 10 units set to be installed near TSK’s headquarters in Holešovice. If this trial proves successful, the program could expand across the city.

Each bin costs approximately CZK 4,300 (excluding VAT), with the metal mount and lid accounting for CZK 1,950, and the plastic body costing around CZK 2,350. TSK anticipates that future bulk orders will lower production costs as the initiative scales up.

In October, Prague Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib introduced the bins through a social media video, highlighting their durability. While the deputy mayor initially mentioned the bins were created using 3D printing, he later clarified that only prototype samples were printed in collaboration with Prusa3D.

These prototypes allowed designers to fine-tune the bin’s structure, size, and proportions. Full-scale production now uses rotational casting technology, which is more efficient and produces a more resilient product than 3D printing could achieve for mass production.

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As in previous years, you will have a chance to meet the uniformed lamp-lighter on the Charles Bridge.

At approximately 16:00 he will begin to light the historical gaslighting with a burning wick on a long rod near the Old Town Bridge Tower.

Nowadays, the gas lights operate automatically, and Advent is the only time of the year when the gas lamps are lit up by a lamplighter.

Street lighting in Prague dates back to 1847, which is the year when the first gas lamps were lit in this city. By 1940, nearly 9,000 gas lamps cast their bluish glow on the city.

Gaslighting was used in Prague till 1985 when the eight branched cast-iron lamps on Hradčanské square and in Loretánská street were converted for electric light.

However, 2002 saw the return of gaslight to the city’s most historic areas. In 2010, gas lamps were placed on the Charles Bridge, which is the only gas-lit bridge in the world.

Nowadays, you can admire romantic gaslighting on the whole Royal Route, from Powder Gate Tower to Hradčanské square.

The lamplighter Jan Žákovec, is vice president of the Lamplighters’ Guild and head of the Gasworks Museum. At 205 cm, he is the tallest lamplighter in the world.

The number of lamplighters can be counted on the fingers of one hand because today, the lamps light up automatically. “I know the lamplighters in Poland in Wroclaw, Brest in Belarus and in London … there are very few of us,” admits Žákovec with a smile.

“In 2002 they turned on the first nine lamps on Michalská Street, and there was a small celebration to commemorate the way the city used to be lit. There were representatives of various companies who‘d played a part, and I was there on behalf of the gasworks, to say something about gaslighting. When it came time to light the lamps, someone said: You’re the tallest, you light them. So that’s how I started.”

“There are gas lamps essentially all along the King’s “Royal Way”. That means its southern part from the Powder Tower to the Old Town Square, and from there to Karlova Street, while the second part leads along Rytířská Street to Uhelný Trh. In 2010, the Charles Bridge was converted, and today it’s still the only bridge in the world lit by gas lamps,” Žákovec says.

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The City of Prague’s management company, Trade Centre Prague (TCP), has terminated the lease of the (A)void Floating Gallery, a well-known cultural venue located on a ship moored at Náplavka.

TCP cited “repeated and serious violations” of lease terms as the reason behind the decision, affecting not only the ship but also the gallery and bar operated in nearby quayside vaults.

Dispute Over Contract Violations

Ondřej Šrámek, TCP’s spokesperson, stated that the decision followed years of issues with the venue’s compliance. These included unannounced events. However, Ivo Slavík, operator of the (A)void Floating Gallery, dismissed TCP’s claims, calling the assertion of “gross violation of the contract” absurd.

Slavík emphasized that similar tensions arose in 2020 when TCP also attempted to evict the gallery but ultimately reconsidered after a petition with over 4,000 signatures defended the space.

“This is a public area,” Slavík argued. “The quayside lease shouldn’t give TCP the right to control everything happening on board. It’s not as though we’re engaged in anything unethical or inappropriate.”

TCP Stands Firm on Lease Termination

TCP manager Martin Habřinský clarified the company’s stance, saying, “Lease termination is always a last resort, but repeated violations of conditions cannot be ignored. We aim to preserve order along the embankment and ensure public spaces are used properly.”

Habřinský added that while the (A)void Floating Gallery was among the first to introduce cultural programming to Prague’s embankments, TCP is obligated to enforce the same rules for all tenants.

The lease for the boat expires on Monday, November 11, while leases for adjacent cabins are set to end in December. TCP also stated that the gallery’s footprint had exceeded the approved area limits, further justifying the termination.

A Cultural Space Under Threat

Supporters argue that (A)void Floating Gallery is irreplaceable. The boat, which has been moored at Rašín Embankment since 2012 and recently underwent extensive repairs, has become a key cultural venue offering literary readings, music events, and exhibitions. Many believe that the gallery has elevated the embankment’s cultural appeal and played a pivotal role in its popularity, all without becoming overly commercialized.

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Looking for something different to do this weekend?

This Sunday, November 10th, from 12 PM to 6 PM, Manifesto Market will host the Crafty Market—a one-day celebration of local artistry and craftsmanship.

From handmade treasures to unique vintage finds, this event showcases the work of talented local artists and artisans.

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the incredible vendors who’ll be at the event:

• Inka Hands – Known for beautifully crafted clothing and home decor inspired by global design.
• Monika Svojsová – Stunning bags that add a touch of elegance to any look.
• Ewiku_bizu – Handcrafted jewelry that’s bold, playful, and totally unique.
• Antikvariát Pocta – Discover rare books and hidden gems from a local favorite bookstore.
• Vila Berta – Gorgeous porcelain pieces that blend traditional and contemporary styles.
• Dresscode – A must for vintage clothing enthusiasts looking to add timeless style to their wardrobes.
• Admaru – Beautifully designed ceramics that bring warmth and personality to any space.
• The Vicious Tiger – Unleash your wild side with fierce, fashionable jewelry pieces.
• Freshing Cream – Unique jewelry with an edge, perfect for adding personality to any outfit.
• Vonny Sen – Candles by Petra Klopcová that fill the room with enchanting scents.
• Mirella Birell – An inspiring painter whose works bring color and energy to any setting.
• Sugar Eva – Creative jewelry pieces that are sweet as sugar!
• Slowfox – Handmade fashion with a focus on sustainable style and comfort.
• Time to Shine – Beautifully crafted jewelry for those who love a touch of elegance.
• Dcera Země – Azure bracelets and other captivating jewelry pieces inspired by nature.
• Chapito – Stylish clothing that stands out from the crowd.

 

Event Details:

• Date: November 10, 2024
• Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Manifesto Market Anděl

Are you an artisan interested in joining future markets? Contact Kristýna at [email protected] for vendor information.

 

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An ice rink will be set up on Wenceslas Square for the second year in a row.

Organized by Prague City Tourism, this seasonal attraction brings a slice of traditional winter charm to the heart of the city, inviting locals and tourists alike to skate under the festive lights.

The ice rink, located on the square’s lower end, will officially open on Sunday, December 1, at 5:00 PM. A special inaugural event will feature athletes from the renowned Sparta figure skating club, showcasing a lively performance to mark the start of the season.

The rink will measure 30 by 12 meters, providing ample space for skaters of all skill levels. Facilities include on-site skate rentals and a food stand, perfect for grabbing a snack or hot beverage during breaks.

Admission Prices:

• Adults: 200 CZK for a two-hour session
• Children: 100 CZK for two hours
• Skate Rental: 150 CZK for two hours

Operating Hours and Schedule

The rink will be open daily from December 1, 2024, to February 16, 2025, with hours spanning from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. To keep the ice in top condition, three brief maintenance breaks are scheduled each day: 12:00–12:30 PM, 3:00–3:45 PM, and 6:00–6:30 PM.

Special Holiday Hours:

• December 24: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• December 25–26: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• December 31: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• January 1: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

While no advance reservations are required, visitors can book a specific skating time online if they prefer a guaranteed slot.

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