March 20-22: Thousands Expected in Hustopeče for Annual Almond Bloom
Thousands of visitors are expected in Hustopeče on March 20-22, 2026, as the town’s iconic almond orchards gear up for their annual bloom. The orchards, home to around 2,000 trees today, were once the largest almond grove in Central Europe, boasting around fifty thousand trees. Perched among the orchards is a 17-meter observation tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower, along with the almond groves, draws visitors each spring to witness the delicate white flowers covering the trees. The city’s annual Almond and Wine Celebration is scheduled for March 20–22 this year. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and local cultural programs, with the detailed itinerary available on the city’s official website. Each year, the city organizes a guessing competition to predict the exact day the almond trees will bloom. This year, participants submitted dates ranging from March 8 to March 29. “Most guesses are centered around March 19, which is currently seen as the most likely bloom period,” said Jana Hrádková, head of the city’s marketing and culture department. The winner will receive a bottle of Hustopečská mandlovica, awarded to the participant whose prediction comes closest to the actual bloom date. Historical records show that the almond...
