Prague’s St. Matthew’s Fair (Matějská pouť) will run from February 21 to April 19 at the Výstaviště Exhibition Grounds, marking the start of the spring fair season in the Czech capital.

Considered the first spring fair in Prague and the most visited fair in the Czech Republic, the event combines traditional fairground entertainment with modern attractions for both children and adults.

The fair occupies a large part of the exhibition complex, from the upper entrance near the tram stops and Sea World down to the lower sections of the grounds.

Visitors can expect more than 100 attractions, ranging from historic rides to contemporary amusement installations. Among them are centrifuges, haunted houses, shooting galleries, classic chain carousels, swings, bouncy castles, rocking boats, racetrack rides and the well-known house of laughter.

Food stands remain a central part of the experience. Alongside fast-food stalls and sweets, visitors can buy gingerbread hearts, traditionally associated with the fair and commonly taken home as souvenirs.

Long History Linked to St. Matthew’s Day

The tradition of the fair dates back centuries. Records preserved in the National Library show that the event has been documented since 1595. Originally linked to the celebration of St. Matthew’s Day on February 24, it gradually became known as Prague’s first spring fair and later one of the earliest spring fairs in Europe.

Admission and Access

• Entry rules vary depending on the day.
• From Tuesday to Friday, admission to the grounds is free.
• On weekends, visitors must enter through official gates and pay a 30 CZK entrance fee. Individual rides and attractions charge separate fees throughout the fair.

Transport and Parking

Parking inside the Exhibition Grounds remains limited due to reconstruction works. Visitors arriving by car are advised to use nearby facilities such as OC Stromovka parking or A-Z parking Argentinská.

Public transport is usually the easiest option. The nearest stop is Výstaviště, served by tram lines 6, 12, 17 and 25. Journey planning is available through the Czech transport planner IDOS.

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