Aug 18, 2026

Prague's Groovy Market Fest Returns After a Successful Debut

Prague Morning

A new urban festival is aiming to become a regular fixture on Prague’s cultural calendar after attracting 1,200 visitors to its first edition in Riegrovy sady.

Groovy Market Fest, held on August 1, brought together food, design, music and local brands in a format inspired by European city markets.

According to the organizers, around 85% of visitors were tourists or foreign residents of Prague, highlighting the event’s appeal beyond the Czech-speaking audience.

The festival will return to Riegrovy sady on September 5, with further editions planned for October, November and December.

From Barcelona to Prague

Groovy Market Fest was founded by Marek Novák and Veronika Kracíková, a couple with experience in Prague’s food scene and Barcelona’s street-food culture.

Their interest in international gastronomy also led them to compete in Spain. In 2025, they won first place in the Cooking The Street competition, where their dish was judged by a professional panel that included chefs Beñat Ormaetxea and Jon Kepa Aurrecoetxea.

After returning to Prague, they decided to develop their own event, drawing inspiration from markets such as Barcelona’s Palo Alto Market.

The First Edition

Food Garden focused on gastronomy, while Palm Street featured local products and handmade goods. The Design Zone presented Czech brands working in fashion, design and art.

Rather than filling the site with as many vendors as possible, the organizers selected a smaller number of participants. They say the approach was intended to create a more coherent experience for visitors.

Music was another part of the programme, with live performances and DJ sets throughout the event. Visitors could also attend a masterclass focused on preparing the festival’s signature Groovy cocktail.

Additional editions are scheduled for October 3, November 7 and December 5, all at the same location.

Tickets for upcoming editions are available through GoOut.