Prague will host a full day of events on Monday, November 17, 2025, to mark the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day and International Students’ Day.

This date is strongly associated in the Czech public consciousness with the beginning of the Velvet Revolution, now 36 years past. Residents and visitors can attend a variety of free events across the city celebrating democracy, culture, and civic engagement.

Národní třída

The central commemoration traditionally takes place on Národní třída. This year, organizers will also highlight the 75th anniversary of the judicial murder of politician Milada Horáková and priest Josef Toufar. The program begins at 10 a.m. with the Velvet Brunch on the Street and continues with debates, exhibitions, and interviews. The day culminates in the Prayer for Marta and a special audiovisual installation, providing visitors with a reflective experience.

Wenceslas Square

From 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., the Concert for the Future will take place in the lower part of Wenceslas Square. Organized by the Nerudný Fest association, the event features performances by Jasná páka, Aneta Langerová (with Modlitba pro Martu), Barbora Poláková, Vypsaná Fixa, and Jaroslav Hutka.

The concert is more than music: video messages collected from regions during the Mobile Wenceslas Square tour will be shared, and personalities will discuss the importance of democracy. At approximately 6:20 p.m., attendees can participate in an interactive survey on key civic issues using their mobile phones, with drone footage tracking the number of responses.

Old Town Square

The Million Moments for Democracy association will hold a demonstration at Old Town Square from 3 p.m., under the banner “Czech Republic is Not for Sale”. Participants will voice concerns over the emerging government, which they criticize as influenced by mafia-style practices.

Můstek

From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Velvet Bridge to Europe event will celebrate freedom and democracy along Na Příkopě street.

Újezd

At 10 a.m., the Monument to the Victims of Communism will host a commemoration organized by the Ethics Commission for the Award of Participants in the Resistance.

Klárov

The No to Bases initiative will mark the anniversary of the Velvet Revolution at 10 a.m.

Kampa

The Velvet Light-Up Ceremony begins at 3 p.m., featuring the 14th annual parade of students, teachers, civic initiatives, and musical ensembles. The route covers Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Na Perštýně Street, and Jungmannovo Square, ending at Kampus Hybernská.

Malostranské náměstí

The Concert Against Totalitarianism at the Faculty of Music and Dance of the Academy of Music and Dance begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free but reservations are required. Pianist and composer Marek Kozák will perform.

National Theatre

The Memory of the Nation Awards ceremony starts at 8 p.m., honoring individuals who demonstrated courage under totalitarian regimes. This year, the event also recognizes Ukrainian citizens alongside Czech and Slovak awardees. Hosts include Daniela Písařovicová and Michael Szatmary.

Rudolfinum

The Czech Philharmonic celebrates the holiday with the Concert for Freedom and Democracy at 8 p.m., conducted by Sakari Oramo with the Prague Philharmonic Choir. The program includes Mahler’s Second Symphony, Resurrection. A live broadcast will be available on Czech Radio Vltava.

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