Saturday, April 5, 2025
The Czech Republic and Slovakia are set to be connected by a high-speed railway, with both countries now in discussions to map out the project.
According to iRozhlas, Slovakia has finalized a feasibility study for a high-speed rail link between Bratislava and the Czech border. The study now requires approval from local authorities.
Meanwhile, the Czech side has already prepared its own documentation, allowing for joint planning to begin.
“A completely new line will be built from Bratislava-západ station, designed for speeds of 300 to 400 km/h, connecting to the Czech Republic,” said Miroslav Garaj, director of the Strategy Department of Slovak Railways, in an interview with Radiožurnál.
However, the railway’s completion is still far off.
“Since this is a new line, the process will take two to three years just for preparation. The project is expected to be ready around 2029 or 2030, but construction is unlikely to begin before 2036 to 2040,” Garaj added.
The planned high-speed rail will extend from Brno to Břeclav and then continue toward the border. The first section is scheduled for construction in 2028, with the Railway Administration aiming to launch operations by 2033.
This means passengers could take a high-speed train between Brno and Ostrava within the next eight years. At Břeclav, the line will then split, offering connections to Austria and Slovakia.
The Czech government is also advancing other high-speed rail projects.
According to iRozhlas, a Brno-to-Prague line could become operational by 2036, with an extension to Dresden planned for 2040.
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Moving to a new country comes with challenges, from understanding local bureaucracy to finding work and learning the language.
In an effort to ease this transition, Prague City Hall and Integration Centre Prague have launched New in Prague, a comprehensive online resource designed to help newcomers navigate life in the Czech capital.
The initiative, part of the “Prague is Our Home: A Common Path to Integration” project, aims to provide reliable and practical information in one place, ensuring foreigners have access to essential services from their first days in the city.
Available in Czech, English, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and Russian, the website caters to Prague’s diverse international community.
A Personalized Roadmap for Newcomers
One of the website’s key features is its interactive guidepost, which generates a personalized checklist based on a few simple questions. This tool outlines an individual’s obligations and recommended steps upon arriving in Prague, such as registering with local authorities, obtaining work permits, or enrolling in Czech language courses.
The site covers thirteen critical topics, including legal residency, employment, healthcare, education, and volunteer opportunities. These resources ensure that newcomers receive clear and up-to-date guidance on the most pressing aspects of settling in Prague.
Beyond Basic Information: A Multimedia Approach
Beyond traditional articles, New in Prague offers a six-part video series addressing real-life situations foreigners may encounter, such as opening a trade license or understanding the Czech education system. The series features Serbian-born actor Predrag Bjelac, who shares insights from his own experience integrating into Czech society.
Additionally, the site provides communication cards designed to assist non-Czech speakers when dealing with authorities and official institutions, removing language barriers that often complicate bureaucratic processes.
The platform builds upon the city’s existing integration resources, including Metropole Všech, which offers more detailed information about life in Prague, as well as updates on relevant news and events.
While New in Prague serves as a first-stop guide for newly arrived foreigners, Metropole Všech provides long-term residents with deeper insights and community connections.
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Pastrami isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a story. A tale of succulent, marinated meat, slow-smoked to perfection, grilled, and served between crispy slices of bread.
This year, the third edition of the Pastrami Pop-Up at Holešovice Market promises to take this experience to another level. Expect bigger portions, bold flavors, new vendors, and a lineup of drinks and desserts—all wrapped in an exciting accompanying program.
Mark your calendars for April 24, 2025, from 11:00 to 22:00. Whether you’re grabbing lunch with colleagues, unwinding after work, or meeting friends for a casual evening of New York-style street food, this event is for you. Entry is free all day!
You’ll get the chance to enjoy both classic pastrami sandwiches and innovative new combinations, crafted to perfection. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beef or looking for a vegan alternative, there’s something for everyone.
Who’s Serving?
Starting at 11:00 AM, some of the best names in the business will be serving up mouthwatering sandwiches:
- Big Smokers
- Meat Vandals
- Take Eat EZ
- MK’s BBQ Truck
- Bistro Čejka & Čejka Family Butchery
- Piantado
- Bistro Manquian Authentic Chilean Food
- Gule Food Truck (For those craving something sweet!)
- Bezmasna (Czechia’s first plant-based butcher shop—perfect for vegans, vegetarians)
- Pivo Falkon & Luvini (Craft beer and fine wine to complement your pastrami!)
Beyond Food
This year’s Pastrami Pop-Up isn’t just about food—it’s also a cultural event. Here’s what else to expect:
- Music: The festival wouldn’t be complete without music, and DJ Teejay Ivo and DJ Gadjo are back to set the perfect vibe.
- Live Painting: Illustrator Jakub Bachorík—known for his witty festival artwork—will be painting live among visitors.
- Theater: Enjoy a laugh with an improv performance by Just! Impro at 7:30 PM in Hall 17. Tickets are 190 CZK.
- Exhibition: A special exhibition in the Water Tower will explore the 130-year history of Prague’s former slaughterhouse, featuring a historical scavenger hunt for kids and access to the observation deck.
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The One World International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival, organized by People in Need, is returning for its 27th edition in 2025.
Recognized as the largest festival of its kind, One World spans 57 cities across the Czech Republic from March 12 to April 27, 2025, with its Prague segment running from March 12–20.
One World presents over 100 documentary films tackling political, social, environmental, and cultural issues. The festival has grown into a major cultural event in the Czech Republic, drawing more than 100,000 visitors annually.
Beyond screenings, One World fosters an open forum for discussion, hosting debates, Q&A sessions, and panels with filmmakers, activists, policymakers, and media representatives. Special screenings are also arranged for elementary and high school students.
The competition lineup includes four main categories:
- International Competition (Best Film, Best Director Awards)
- Right to Know Competition (highlighting investigative films)
- Immersive Films Competition (exploring new media formats)
- Czech Competition (showcasing national productions)
In addition to the competitive sections, thematic programs will feature films under categories such as The Slovak Journey, Family Webs, Female Gaze, Male Beings, Ecosystems, and Searching for Freedom.
2025 Highlights: Must-See Films
This year’s lineup includes films such as:
- “My Memory is Full of Ghosts” – A deeply personal exploration of trauma and memory, this film follows individuals whose lives have been shaped by past conflicts and personal tragedies. Through intimate storytelling and archival footage, it sheds light on how memories influence identity and healing.
- “Mr. Nobody Against Putin” – A gripping political documentary that follows a lesser-known Russian activist who dares to challenge Vladimir Putin’s regime. The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the dangers of dissent in modern Russia, featuring exclusive interviews with opposition figures and footage from protests and secret meetings.
- “The White House Effect” – An investigative documentary that delves into climate change policies and their global consequences. It traces how decisions made in Washington ripple across the world, impacting vulnerable communities facing extreme weather, displacement, and environmental collapse.
- “Zurawski v. Texas” – A courtroom drama-documentary chronicling the legal battle over reproductive rights in Texas. Through firsthand accounts and legal analysis, it examines the restrictive abortion laws and their impact on women and healthcare providers fighting for autonomy.
- “Cyborg Generation” – A visually stunning and thought-provoking film that explores the rise of transhumanism and the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI and human enhancement. Featuring interviews with scientists, philosophers, and individuals already modifying their bodies with technology, the film raises pressing questions about the future of humanity.
Get your ticket here.
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A bar in Prague has made it onto the prestigious 50 Best Discovery list, which highlights the world’s most exciting establishments.
Alma, a unique venue known for its focus on seasonal and local ingredients, is one of only six Czech spots to have ever earned such recognition.
Alma’s appeal goes beyond its creative cocktails; the bar incorporates local herbs like Lamium (dead-nettles) and wild ingredients such as pickled pine cones, setting itself apart with unconventional flavors.
The bar is part of a wider gastronomic complex that operates from early morning to late night. It starts as a café, transitions into a restaurant for lunch and dinner, and in the evening, guests can unwind in the wine bar or basement nightclub.
Located in a renovated space that once housed a cinema on V Jirchářích Street near Prague’s National Theatre, Alma has become a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors.
The establishment’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and ingredient-focused menus has earned it praise from experts and visitors alike.
According to 50 Best Discovery, the cocktails at Alma “feature a wide range of unusual flavors” that reflect the bar’s respect for natural ingredients and seasonality.
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The Alma complex was created by Petr Němec and Vojta Václavík, building on their successful collaboration at the Kro Kitchen. Their work emphasizes collaboration with like-minded producers, from farmers to winemakers and coffee roasters, ensuring that Alma’s offerings always reflect the freshest and most authentic flavors.
Historically, five other Czech bars and two restaurants have appeared on the 50 Best list. In addition to Alma, Prague is represented by Black Angel’s, Hemingway, and L’Fleur, with La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise representing the restaurant scene.
The Super Panda Circus in Moravia is another notable Czech spot to have made the list.
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Spring-like warmth will be short-lived as temperatures drop this week, falling below 10°C, according to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ).
Monday
Expect partly cloudy skies, with increasing cloudiness from the southwest throughout the day. Rain or showers may develop in the afternoon and evening, particularly in Bohemia.
Nighttime lows will range from 9 to 5°C, with temperatures possibly dropping to 0°C in areas where winds weaken. Daytime highs will reach 14 to 18°C, with some parts of Moravia and Silesia experiencing up to 21°C.
Winds will be light and variable (up to 4 m/s), but in the east, a moderate southeast to south wind (3 to 7 m/s) may bring gusts around 15 m/s. Later in the day, winds in Bohemia will shift to southwest to west and strengthen slightly.
Tuesday
A cloudy to overcast day awaits, with occasional breaks of partly cloudy skies. Expect scattered rain showers.
Nighttime temperatures will range between 8 and 4°C, while daytime highs will be 13 to 17°C, though northern and western regions may only reach 11°C. Winds will be light from the southwest (2 to 6 m/s), weakening in the evening.
Wednesday
Another cloudy to overcast day, with sporadic rain showers. Nighttime temperatures will drop to 6 to 1°C, while daytime highs will be between 11 and 16°C.
Winds in Bohemia will be light and variable (1 to 4 m/s), while in Moravia and Silesia, expect a light southeast to south wind (2 to 5 m/s).
Thursday
Overcast skies will dominate, with rain or showers expected, particularly in northern and northwestern regions. Higher elevations above 1,100 meters could see snowfall.
Nighttime lows will range between 7 and 2°C, while daytime highs will be 9 to 13°C, reaching up to 16°C in the southeast. Light variable winds will be around 4 m/s.
Weekend (Friday – Sunday)
Expect overcast skies with intermittent rain showers. In mountainous areas, precipitation will likely fall as snow. As the cold spell intensifies, nighttime temperatures will range from 6 to 1°C, possibly dropping to -1°C by the end of the period. Daytime highs will be between 8 and 13°C, falling further to 4 to 9°C toward the end of the week.
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The Prague Beer Fest 2025 will take place on April 11-12, 2025, at Holešovice Market, marking its seventh year as the biggest beer tasting festival in Czechia.
This year’s event will feature 50 breweries from across the country and 15 foreign nations, including the USA, UK, Poland, Belgium, Latvia, the Basque Country, and Luxembourg.
The festival will be held in Hall 13 and its surrounding areas, offering a diverse program with a street food section catering to both beer enthusiasts and families.
The event is organized under the auspices of Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný, ensuring a strong industry presence.
Meet Brewers from Around the World
One of the festival’s key highlights is the opportunity to meet brewers in person. Many participating breweries will be represented by their owners or master brewers, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and the stories behind each beer.
For the second year in a row, a delegation of American brewers will attend, this time featuring five breweries from Philadelphia and Boston.
The UK craft beer scene will also be well represented, led by the renowned Verdant Brewery, with support from British Ambassador Matt Field. Additionally, new participants from the Basque Country and Latvia promise to bring fresh flavors to the festival.
Tickets and Payments
Visitors can purchase either a one-day ticket or a discounted two-day pass at the official e-shop.
Each ticket includes a limited-edition tasting glass designed specifically for this year’s festival. Glasses will also be available for purchase at the venue.
The festival will operate cashless payments via NFCtron. Upon arrival, visitors will receive a bracelet with an NFC chip, which they can top up using a credit card or cash.
Any unused balance will be refunded after the event.
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Despite increasing tensions in Europe and widespread efforts to bolster military forces, the Czech Republic managed to grow its army by only 176 soldiers last year amid considerable recruitment challenges.
While European nations are ramping up defense spending and expanding their forces, Czechia’s struggle to attract new recruits raises concerns about its long-term military preparedness.
The Czech Army currently has around 24,000 personnel, but the government aims to increase that number to over 37,000 by 2030. However, as Chief of General Staff Karel Řehka pointed out last week, recruitment remains a major obstacle.
“We currently have fewer than 24,000 soldiers under my command. Our plan by 2030 is targeting 30,000, and despite this, we received so few soldiers to the army last year that the total increase is only 176,” he admitted.
Recruitment issues in the Czech military are part of a broader European trend. A Gallup poll from last year found that the willingness of citizens to defend their country with a weapon in hand has declined.
In 2014, 61 percent of respondents in select countries expressed readiness to fight; by 2023, that figure had dropped to 52 percent. While countries like Finland, Poland, and Sweden maintain relatively high levels of willingness to defend their nations, Czechia has struggled to inspire the same sense of urgency.
Some nations are addressing their recruitment shortfalls by adjusting service requirements. Ukraine, for instance, lowered its draft age from 27 to 25, while Israel extended mandatory military service.
However, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has dismissed the idea of implementing similar measures, favoring a voluntary, professional army model with an emphasis on active reserves.
“I am convinced that the only way is a modern professional army. We must utilize elements we already have here, such as active backups, to create space for all citizens who voluntarily want to participate in their country’s defense according to their abilities,” he said.
In an effort to boost recruitment, Czech military officials are introducing measures such as improving living conditions for troops, making service more compatible with family life, and digitizing recruitment processes.
They have also explored high school training programs and the concept of voluntary pre-enlistment, allowing individuals to undergo medical evaluations and commit to military service in case of a national emergency.
Former Defense Minister Lubomír Metnar has called for simplifying the recruitment process, increasing salaries for lower-ranking officers, and making military service more appealing. Meanwhile, a major amendment to the law on professional soldiers is currently under discussion in the Czech Senate to increase recruitment bonuses, allow for shorter service terms, ease criminal record restrictions for enlistment, and expand benefits such as housing and stabilization allowances.
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The owner of the Máj department store on Národní třída is considering requesting an extension for the moving butterfly installation on the building’s facade.
Karel Samec, spokesperson for Amadeus Group, which owns Máj, confirmed the possible request.
The installation, designed by artist David Černý, was originally approved for just one year by Prague’s heritage conservation office. The butterflies were placed on the building on May 18 and 19, 2024, and Černý supports extending the display.
“At the moment, we are evaluating whether to submit a request to extend the placement of David Černý’s butterflies on Máj. The artist supports the extension, and we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors and the general public, including professionals,” Samec stated.
Not everyone welcomes the installation. The Klub Za Starou Prahu (Club for Old Prague), a civic association focused on heritage conservation, has been a vocal critic.
Its chairman, Richard Biegel, dismissed the artwork as “a typical example of kitsch.” Last year, the club criticized the city’s heritage office for approving the project despite the National Heritage Institute rejecting it.
The Máj department opened to the public on April 21, 1975, and in 2006, the Ministry of Culture designated it a cultural monument.
A massive renovation began in May 2022, costing 4.5 billion CZK. The store reopened to customers on June 24, 2024, offering nine floors of retail stores, restaurants, an interactive exhibition, and a rooftop observation terrace.
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Around 200 people gathered on Malostranské Square on Friday afternoon to protest against former US President Donald Trump.
The demonstration was sparked by concerns over Trump’s recent statements suggesting that Europe cannot depend on US support for Ukraine.
The protest was organized by Milion Chvilek, a civic group known for its pro-democracy activism.
“After Trump’s statement, it is clear that Europe can no longer rely on its traditional ally. We must show that we are strong, united, and ready to defend our future and Ukraine,” the group stated on its website.
The demonstration remained peaceful, with police monitoring the event but not needing to intervene.
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The initiative, called “A Gift for Putin,” began crowdfunding for the Black Hawk helicopter in November 2023, with more than 20,642 donors contributing to the cause.
According to the initiative’s website, Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) will use the helicopter for evacuating soldiers and conducting special operations.
Kyrylo Budanov, head the military intelligence service of the Ukrainian government, expressed gratitude for Czech support throughout the war with Russia, calling the fundraiser “an unprecedented event.”
The organizers wrote: “We did it! Czechs are sending a Black Hawk helicopter to Ukraine. We managed to get a cheaper and newer machine that Ukraine needs.”
“Let’s finish what we started together and send Čestmír to fight against the dark Empire,” they added, referring to the helicopter’s symbolic name ‘Čestmír,’ which means ‘one who values honor’ in Czech, while likening Vladimir Putin’s regime to a ‘dark empire.’
The statement continued: “Ukraine cannot win the war with drones or ammunition alone. It also needs tanks, aircraft, howitzers—and helicopters for special operations.”
Czechs have now become the first nation to purchase a military helicopter for Ukraine.
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The Czech-Irish Business and Cultural Association (CIBCA), in partnership with the Irish Embassy in the Czech Republic, announced that Prague’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is back this year on March 16, and it’s the largest one ever in the city.
The procession will bring the heart of the Czech-Irish community from all over the country to life, featuring over 50 groups celebrating Irish culture, music, and dance.
In keeping with the past tradition, the parade will begin at Wenceslas Square at 14:15 (assembly from 14:00) and weave its way through the city, culminating in a gathering at Old Town Square, where the celebrations will continue.
Joining the procession will be an impressive lineup of Irish dance groups, including TJ Academy of Irish Dance & Sona Sól Veselá Kopýtka, Rinceoirí, Coiscéim, inSpiral, and Gall Tír.
The Irish Wolfhound Group will add a touch of Irish heritage, while Celtic bands such as Shannon and Foggy Dude will fill the streets with music.
Other notable participants include Prague Irish Set Dancers, Sally O’Brien Irish Pub, lead piper Chip Doehring, The Wild Geese Society, the Prague Kids GAA Club, and of course, St. Patrick himself, who will be there to meet with the people of Prague and even pose for a photograph or two.
“Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s day, and the best way to join in the celebrations this year is to dress in green, white and orange, the national colours of Ireland,” said Darragh Price of the CIBCA parade organising committee.
For more information on the parade and other Irish-themed events happening in Prague, visit this website.
Map of the parade route:
