The Czech Republic experienced its snowiest Christmas on record exactly 50 years ago. In 1974, 215 centimeters of snow covered the ground at Vrbatova bouda in the Krkonoše Mountains, located at an altitude of 1,410 meters. This record remains unbeaten, and while this year’s holiday season will not come close to such numbers, colder-than-average temperatures could preserve snow at higher altitudes. The coldest Christmas temperature was recorded in 2001 at Horská Kvilda, with the mercury plunging to -35.5 °C. In contrast, the warmest December 24 occurred in 1958 and 1977, with temperatures reaching 14.5 °C at the Lučina station in the Moravian-Silesian Region and Kolín. A Changing Climate Long-term data from 1991 to 2020 indicate that the average daily temperature for Christmas Eve is -0.4 °C. However, since 2008, the average air temperature across the Czech Republic has consistently exceeded 0 °C during Christmas. Although this year’s holiday is expected to be colder than recent years, temperatures will remain well above historical norms. Cities and Snowfall: Liberec Takes the Lead The coldest Christmas Eve in an urban area occurred in Pardubice in 2001, with temperatures plunging to -23.5 °C. On the opposite end, České Budějovice experienced the warmest Christmas Eve...
Discover dozens of free sports activities during Prague’s annual Free Sports Week, running from December 25 to 31. Find out how to participate and explore new sports opportunities. The Free Sports Week returns to Prague this December, offering residents an opportunity to enjoy a wide range of sporting activities for free. Full details, including participating locations and schedules, can be found on the official website: prahasportovni.cz A Week of Active Opportunities Prague’s Free Sports Week aims to make sports more accessible while promoting a healthy lifestyle. “This event is a unique chance for residents to try not only traditional sports but also less conventional activities. It’s an excellent way to explore new sports facilities and embrace a healthier lifestyle,” says Antonín Klecanda, the City Councilor for Sports. He encourages residents to take advantage of the initiative to discover sports they might continue in the new year. The program includes both popular activities like football and tennis and non-traditional options such as climbing, martial arts, and paintball. Participants can choose from a list of several dozen sports to suit their interests. Important Reservation Details While many venues offer free access during this period, some require reservations due to limited capacity. Free...
OKTAGON MMA returns to the O2 Arena in Prague for its annual end-of-year spectacular, which has become a ‘can’t miss event’ on the country’s sporting calendar. OKTAGON 65 takes place on Sunday, December 29, and features three world title fights—ending 2024 with an almighty bang. In the main event, Slovak star Ronald Paradeiser takes on top worldwide prospect Losene Keita to decide who will become the ‘Triple Crown King’ in the biggest fight the company has ever promoted. The bout not only serves as the final of the €1 million Tipsport Gamechanger tournament, but Rony’s lightweight belt and the #1 pound-for-pound ranking in the promotion are also up for grabs. This is a sensational rematch between two incredible athletes that simply can’t be missed! Czech superstar Karlos Vémola comes out of retirement in the co-headliner to defend his light heavyweight championship against surging Irishman Will Fleury. The pair’s rivalry began many years ago when ‘The Terminator’ injured Fleury during a sparring session and the Irishman has wanted payback ever since. The Irish talent has looked unstoppable as of late, but he hasn’t faced anyone on the level of Vémola. Only one man can leave O2 Arena as the best in...
Prague has installed concrete barriers at the Christmas market on Náměstí Republiky, enhancing security measures in response to Friday’s attack in Magdeburg, Germany. Police spokesman Jan Daněk told the Czech News Agency that concrete blocks will now also be placed so as to protect Prague’s embankment. Concrete barriers already protect popular markets at Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Police Presence Increased at Christmas Markets Since the start of the Advent season, the police have implemented heightened measures in high-traffic areas, including Christmas markets and cultural events. “The police are present for preventive reasons, ensuring visibility to make people feel safe. If they notice anything unusual, such as abandoned luggage or suspicious behavior, they will investigate and address the situation,” said Daněk while describing security operations at Old Town Square. No Immediate Threat in the Czech Republic Interior Minister Vít Rakušan has assured the public that the Czech Republic is not under immediate threat. “The police are monitoring the situation, and enhanced security measures are in place for Advent markets,” he stated on social media platform X. Rakušan confirmed that Czech authorities are in close communication with their German counterparts. “We are exchanging information through the national operations center and...
When you think about summer camp, what comes to mind? Campfires, s’mores, and maybe a few arts and crafts? Sure those things are part of the experience, but what if there was a summer camp that offered way more? One that helps you grow, meet like-minded people, and learn real-world skills – all while being a world away from the pressures of school, social media, and the everyday grind. That’s where kiDay comes in. kiDay is a game changer for teenagers looking for something different, something deeper. It’s about diving into activities you love, making lifelong friendships, and gaining valuable experiences that go far beyond just having fun. Think surfing, sailing, photography workshops, and leadership opportunities– all designed to help you build the future you want. Whatever it is, kiDay will help you find the camp best suited for you. Let’s face it, as a teenager, you’re at an age where you’re starting to explore who you really are. You’re dealing with the pressures of school, the competition to perform, and, of course social media – where it feels like everyone has their life together except you. But kiDay ensures that none of that matters. The camp focuses on creating...
A Russian missile attack on Kyiv has damaged the Czech Center, Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský announced on the X social media platform. Fortunately, no one was present in the building during the strike, but civilians were in nearby apartments. “Russia continues to destroy Ukrainian lives and property, and today, it targeted us, the Czechs,” Lipavský stated. “The Czech Center in Kyiv was damaged by the blast wave from the missile strike. While no one was at the site, civilians in surrounding residences were endangered.” Tereza Soušková, director of the Czech Center in Kyiv, expressed her dismay at the incident. “Seeing my office damaged by a Russian attack is deeply unsettling. This aggression, which has persisted for nearly three years, remains as cynical as ever and defies basic human understanding,” Soušková told Novinky. “The Russian regime is targeting civilians and cultural institutions that aim to foster cooperation and peaceful coexistence between nations.” The missile attack on Kyiv occurred early Friday morning. Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported one fatality and nine injuries, four of whom required hospitalization. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the strike was a response to a Ukrainian attack on Russia’s Rostov region earlier this week. According to Moscow, Ukraine...
This Saturday, December 21, Prague will commemorate the first anniversary of the tragic mass shooting at the Faculty of Arts, Charles University. On that day last year, a student at Prague’s Charles University shot and killed 14 people and injured 25 others, before being found dead. To honor the victims, several memorial events will take place across the city, drawing public figures, politicians, and citizens. Czech President Petr Pavel is expected to attend. Key Events on Saturday, December 21 At 3:00 PM, a commemorative concert titled “A Year Later” (Rok poté) will be held in the Academic Parish Church of St. Salvator (Kostel Nejsvětějšího Salvátora). While the event will be broadcast live by Czech Television and Czech Radio, attendance is restricted to invited guests and media representatives. Following the concert, a procession will begin at the church, moving along Křižovnická Street to Jan Palach Square. At 5:00 PM, a memorial ceremony will take place at the monument in front of the Faculty of Arts. At 6:00 PM, St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle will host a mass in memory of the victims. At 7:30 PM, the Evangelical Church of the Czech Brethren will hold an evening prayer service, including a...
A man who discovered a bag with over 200,000 crowns on a Prague tram in late September decided to keep it instead of reporting it. Police are now asking the public for help in identifying him. The incident occurred on tram number 11, traveling from Spořilov to I. P. Pavlova. The victim had placed his handbag on the armrest of his seat but accidentally left it behind when he got off. Realizing his mistake, he attempted to retrieve it by chasing the tram. “He immediately hailed a taxi and managed to catch up with the tram at the Nákladové nádraží station. However, by the time he boarded, the bag was gone,” said police spokesman Richard Hrdina. Police obtained camera footage showing a man boarding the tram after the victim disembarked. The suspect, seen sitting in the victim’s seat, looked around nervously before throwing the bag over his shoulder and exiting the tram at Žižkov Freight Station. The stolen bag contained a tablet, personal documents, payment cards, and cash in both Czech crowns and euros, amounting to over CZK 200,000. Despite their efforts, police have been unable to locate the suspect and are now appealing for help from the public. The...
If you’re looking to celebrate Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Eve in style, Prague’s top hotels offer an array of festive experiences that combine luxury, exceptional dining, and a joyous ambiance. W Hotel – Le Petit Beefbar The W Hotel‘s Le Petit Beefbar is set to impress this festive season with its sophisticated flair and exceptional culinary offerings. Guests can enjoy a 4-course Christmas Eve dinner featuring signature dishes, accompanied by live music. On Christmas Day, a special brunch awaits, complete with vibrant beats and an elegant atmosphere. To usher in 2025 in style, the restaurant will host a New Year’s Eve celebration with an exquisite 5-course menu, live music, and dancing. Signature dishes include grilled meats and street foods pair perfectly with Grand Café’s classics such as the crispy Duck croquettes with potato cream and cranberry, delicate Smoked trout ceviche with hazelnut oil, and flavorful grilled and glazed duck. Hilton Prague On Christmas Day, guests are treated to a lavish brunch featuring a variety of festive dishes, live music, and a special children’s buffet to keep the whole family entertained. New Year’s Eve at Hilton Prague delivers an unforgettable celebration inspired by Italian glamour. The special evening...
Dozens of police officers are currently searching for a man reported to be armed and heading toward the center of Prague. The individual was last seen near Letenské Sady, prompting immediate action by law enforcement. Police officials have confirmed that security measures have been implemented as part of the search operation. “Police officers are investigating a report that a man with a gun is heading from Letenské Sady to the center of Prague. Several dozen officers are on the scene, conducting a search and verifying the credibility of the report,” stated law enforcement via the X social media platform. No additional details about the man’s identity or motive are available at this time. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. At the same time, people in the area received SMS messages and emails via the KISS system informing them of the intervention. “Preventive measures by the Czech Police are underway in the area around the Faculty of Law, there is no direct threat, please remain calm,” the report says. Policisté prověřují oznámení, dle kterého by měl z Letenských sadů do centra směřovat muž se zbraní. Na místě probíhá...
Prague will start 2025 without the usual New Year’s Eve fireworks or video mapping displays. City officials decided that large-scale celebrations would not be appropriate this year due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising economic pressures. Instead, Prague has prepared a special New Year’s gift for its residents. On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, people can visit some of the city’s most popular attractions at discounted prices: Prague Zoo: Admission will cost just 100 CZK, a fraction of the usual price, offering an affordable day out for families and individuals alike. Botanical Garden in Troja: Entry will be discounted by 50%, making this lush escape more accessible to all. Prague Public Transport Museum: Adults can explore the museum for only 60 CZK, while children’s tickets will be priced at 20 CZK. Powder Gate: Adults can visit this historic landmark for just 55 CZK, and children under 15 can enter for free. Prague Planetarium: All visitors will pay the price of a child’s ticket, offering a budget-friendly opportunity to explore the stars. Bruce Weber: My Education Exhibition: Held at the House at the Stone Bell, tickets will be sold on a “buy one, get one free” basis, allowing art enthusiasts...
The Czech Republic faces significant challenges in creating a supportive environment for businesses, ranking as the sixth worst among EU member states. The primary issues include soaring energy costs and limited access to financing, as revealed by the Prosperity and Financial Health Index. This marks a drop of two places compared to last year. Energy Prices as a Major Burden Rising electricity prices remain the most pressing concern for businesses. According to Milan Mařík, an analyst for the Europe in Data project, electricity costs for companies consuming between 500 and 1,999 megawatt hours more than doubled between 2021 and 2023. Businesses now pay the EU’s 13th highest rates for electricity, nearing the European average but with a sharper price increase compared to other nations. This energy burden makes it difficult for local businesses to compete, with costs hindering profitability and growth. By contrast, countries like Finland, which boasts the EU’s best business conditions, offer significantly lower electricity costs and other advantages, such as a thriving startup culture and low corporate taxes. Tax Increases Add to Struggles Corporate income tax in the Czech Republic rose from 19% to 21% this year, aligning with the EU average but further straining businesses. Historically,...
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